Understanding the 1/6 Barrel: The Popular Sixtel
The 1/6 barrel keg is a workhorse in the craft brewing scene and a favorite among homebrew enthusiasts. Referred to as a 'sixtel,' 'log,' or 'torpedo' keg, this compact container is a versatile option for serving draft beer. Its smaller footprint allows bars and restaurants to offer a wider variety of tap options, while also fitting perfectly in most standard residential kegerators. A full U.S. barrel is 31 gallons, so a sixtel holds exactly one-sixth of that capacity.
The Math: Converting 1/6 Barrel to Servings
To find out exactly how many beers are in a 1/6 barrel, you first need to understand the volume conversions. A single U.S. gallon contains 128 fluid ounces. Using the more common 5.16-gallon figure for a sixtel, we can do the following calculations:
- Total Volume in Ounces: 5.16 gallons * 128 ounces/gallon = 660.48 ounces
From there, the number of servings depends on your glass or bottle size.
1. 12-Ounce Bottles or Cans
Since 12 ounces is the most common serving size for bottled and canned beer, this is a useful benchmark. The total number of 12-ounce servings is:
- 660.48 ounces / 12 ounces/serving ≈ 55 servings
2. 16-Ounce Pints
For craft beer drinkers, the 16-ounce pint glass is a staple. A sixtel can yield a significant number of pints:
- 660.48 ounces / 16 ounces/pint ≈ 41 servings
3. 20-Ounce Imperial Pints
Some establishments serve beer in larger 20-ounce imperial pints. In this case, the yield is lower:
- 660.48 ounces / 20 ounces/pint ≈ 33 servings
Factors Affecting Your Keg's Yield
The numbers above are based on a theoretical perfect pour. In reality, your actual yield will be affected by a few factors:
- Foam and Head: A significant head on your beer or foamy pours can reduce the number of usable ounces you get from the keg. Properly chilling the keg and using the correct CO2 pressure will minimize this waste.
- Spillage: From tapping the keg to accidental spills, some liquid is inevitably lost during the serving process. This is why many experienced drinkers and servers round down their estimates.
- Carbonation Levels: Some beers have higher carbonation levels than others. Excessive carbonation can lead to more foam and less usable beer.
Keg Size Comparison Table
For easy comparison, here is how a sixtel stacks up against other common U.S. keg sizes.
| Keg Size | Gallons | 12 oz. Beers | 16 oz. Pints |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/2 Barrel (Full Size) | 15.5 | 165 | 124 |
| 1/4 Barrel (Pony Keg) | 7.75 | 82 | 62 |
| 1/6 Barrel (Sixtel) | 5.16 | 55 | 41 |
| Cornelius (Homebrew) | 5.0 | 53 | 40 |
Practical Applications and Why a Sixtel is a Smart Choice
Choosing the right keg size depends on your needs. For home users, a sixtel is often the perfect balance of variety and longevity. It holds enough beer for a small party or for several weeks of personal consumption without taking up excessive space. For bars, especially those focused on craft beer, the sixtel allows for a rotating tap list that keeps customers excited about new and seasonal brews. Since they can rotate smaller kegs more quickly, they can offer a fresher and more diverse selection.
Whether for a small backyard barbecue or for stocking a home kegerator with a favorite brew, the 1/6 barrel provides a convenient and manageable volume. Its size is ideal for tasting new varieties without a long-term commitment to a single beer. To ensure the best experience, always keep your keg properly chilled and maintain correct pressure for your specific beer type. A comprehensive guide to beer keg sizes and dimensions can be found at Kegworks.
Conclusion
In summary, a 1/6 barrel, or sixtel keg, contains 5.16 gallons of beer, which translates to approximately 55 twelve-ounce beers or 41 sixteen-ounce pints. Its compact size and manageable volume make it a highly practical choice for both home and commercial use, particularly for those who prioritize variety and freshness. By understanding the simple volume conversions, you can accurately plan for your event or stock your kegerator, ensuring you get the most out of your beer investment.
