Pressure release valve on keg

[johnnie]

Got home from work today and the bottom of my Hambledon Bard keg had seriously bulged out. If I left it much longer I think it may have split. It's got one of these release valves fitted, http://www.the-home-brew-shop.co.uk/aca ... valve.html but obviously it hasn't worked. I was able to release the pressure by pinching the rubber band and the keg went back into shape. Has anyone else had this problem? Is there a solution or should I just fit another valve for £6. I've got to go to the home brew shop tomorrow anyway.

 

[brizleciderarmy]

Its odd that you should ask this question on this very day. For months i have always wondered if the pressure release valves on kegs work effectively. HB kegs, King kegs and even the budget kegs with a valve fitted. As i was grabbing my towels for the daily scrub behind the ears i caught ear of a loud long hiss. After a few seconds of thinking WTF is that( thought it was a radiator pipe burst ) i realized it was my valve letting out excess gas.

First thing i learned is that the valve does work. Second thing learned is that it don't slowly release any surplus C02, when the pressure builds up it suddenly releases a long hiss of pressure. My kegs always egg out at the bottom, not as much with the kingys. They dont usually egg out more than 1/2 inch protrusion. ( i used to **** myself thinking they would go bang).

Anymore pressure and i think your valve would of released the gas i think. Still if your paranoid or theres expensive equipment nearby, 6 quid is a small price to pay for peace of mind.

 

[Darcey]

Lube up the rings :shock: ! bit of Vaseline on the rubber of the valve will help!

 

[johnnie]

Thanks guys. Maybe the pressure would have released itself, but it does look quite worrying when it bulges like that. I'll try some vaseline next time I keg before buying a new valve.