Balancing question

coypoo · 02-05-2012, 05:15 AM

Just wondering if someone could take a look at my math to see if I've done it correctly.

2.5 vols @ 38 F = 11.3 PSI
Height of tap from mid of keg = 1.75 ft, @ 0.5 lb/ft, static resistance = 0.875
11.3-0.875= 10.4
So, with 3/16 ID tubing giving 3 lb/foot Resistance (10.4/3) I need ~3.5 ft of beverage line. Thanks!

**outside92129** · 02-05-2012, 05:20 AM

3.5' will be too short. I can't find it now but there's another thread out there that was talking how the calculations aren't lining up to reality... and to double your lengths. Most people seem to be running 6' to 20' of line. I'm running 10' at 12psi, coming up about 24" from the keg.

coypoo · 02-05-2012, 02:13 PM

Crap. Should I just double whatever length I calculate?

**outside92129** · 02-05-2012, 03:18 PM

It's part science, part art, and maybe some luck thrown in for good measure. Here's a thread going on right now about lengths:

http://www.homebrewtalk.com/f35/accuflex-bev-seal-ultra-length-line-300630/

coypoo · 02-05-2012, 07:51 PM

Thanks for the link. I guess I'll get some 10' line and just start cutting it down slowly

**outside92129** · 02-05-2012, 07:58 PM

what line are you using now?

**Bobby_M** · 02-05-2012, 08:29 PM

The only math you should be doing is a word problem:

Which costs less?

1. Buy the minimum length tubing possible based on a formula, find out it wasn't accurate and then buy more tubing.

2. Er on the side of too long, cut a foot or two off and discard it.

I'm joking around but that's the reality of those calculators. Do yourself a favor and put 8 feet on each run. If it's too slow for your taste, trim a foot. Repeat.

coypoo · 02-06-2012, 01:40 AM

Yeah, rookie mistake. I calculated about 3.75 feet and bought a 4.5' length of 3/16.

I guess the problem was reading that BA Draught "Guideline" and assuming those type of calculations would apply on the home brew scale. Should have read info here first I guess

I saw a 2-sided threaded piece that I might buy for $2 if I need a second line (I have 2 4.5' pieces as they guy at the store gave me double what I asked for).

Thanks for he responses