GB1273495A - Storage and dispensing of carbonated beverages - Google Patents

Abstract

1,273,495. Portable containers. PORTERLANCASTRIAN Ltd. 22 Sept., 1970, No. 45038/70. Heading B8D. [Also in Divisions F1 and F2] A container for storing and dispensing carbonated beverages, e.g. beer, comprises a body shell consisting of interconnected cupshaped parts 11 and 12, a flexible lining bag 13 secured at its mouth to a beer inlet/outlet fitting 14 fastened to an aperture in the domed end wall of the lower shell part 11, and radiallyspaced interconnected inlet/outlet parts 21 and 24 in the domed end wall of the shell part 12 for charging and discharging compressed air between the shell and the bag. In the filling of the container, the bag is entered into the shell in the collapsed condition and the shell interior is filled with compressed air. Beer is fed through the fitting 14 into the bag and erects the bag against the air pressure which is progressively relieved through the ports 21 and 24. The provision of two air inlet/outlet ports permits the release of air from shell during filling from one of the ports in the event of the other port being marked off by the bag on the inflow of the beer. After filling, compressed air is again fed between the shell and bag to facilitate dispensing and to maintain the carbon dioxide in the beer in solution. The ports 21 and 24 are connected to a pipe 22 having a self-sealing coupling 26 by fittings 23 and 25 respectively, the latter incorporating a pressure relief valve. The beer inlet/ outlet fitting 14 comprises a tubular spigot 29a sealingly secured to a support plate 14c which is bolted to the lower shell part. The external end of the spigot terminates in a self-sealing coupling 29. A liquid level indicator in the form of a reflecting tape is provided on the shell inner surface and is visible through one or more inspection ports. The container may be provided with a jacketed cooling system.