Beer storage, cooling and dispensing system

Abstract

A beer dispensing system (10) includes a tank (12) configured to receive beer; at least one draw-off tap (30) cooperating with said tank and configured to dispense the beer contained in the tank when said tap is actuated; and a cooling circuit (40) for cooling said tank and within which a fluid refrigerant circulates, the cooling circuit comprising a condensing unit (42) comprising at least one compressor (44) configured to compress the refrigerant and a condenser (46) configured to cause the refrigerant to pass from the gaseous state to the liquid state, the condensing unit being mounted on the tank; and an evaporator (50) connected to the condensing unit and at least partially surrounding the tank for circulating the refrigerant around the tank so as to cool same.

Description

[0001] BEER STORAGE, COOLING AND DISPENSING SYSTEM

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to the technical field of beer dispensing systems comprising a tank containing beer and dispensing means for dispensing the beer contained in the tank, in order to allow consumers to taste it. The tanks of these dispensing systems can contain several hundred, or even thousands of liters of beer. Also, these beer dispensing systems find their application at festivals or in the context of events bringing together many people, where they allow large quantities of beer to be distributed quickly. These beer dispensing systems equipped with tanks are particularly appreciated as a replacement for conventional beer dispensing systems in which beer kegs are connected to beer taps.Indeed, systems using large capacity tanks make maintenance operations easier, particularly by eliminating the handling required to change empty drums.

[0004] Prior art

[0005] Beer dispensing systems are known in which traditional kegs are replaced by tanks of much larger capacity. These systems include one or more beer taps, configured to cool and dispense beer, and a tank, called a "serving tank," configured to contain beer. These systems connect the tank to the beer taps via long pipes to convey the beer from the tank to the tap. The beer taps in these systems traditionally include a refrigeration device through which the beer from the tank circulates in order to cool it, and one or more taps for dispensing fresh beer to the consumer.

[0006] A disadvantage of these beer dispensing systems is that the beer taps and the beer tank must be transported and brought separately to their intended location, for example to a festival. This involves significant logistical constraints and requires the use of a transport solution for the tank as well as a transport solution for the beer taps. These systems are also very bulky. Transporting these beer dispensing systems is therefore particularly complicated.

[0007] Additionally, once the tank and the taps are positioned in their respective locations, a qualified operator must connect the beer delivery pipes to the tank and the taps. Similarly, replacing an empty tank requires complex maneuvers to connect the delivery pipes to a new tank. These connection operations are complex and tedious and must be carried out by competent people. It is therefore necessary for these qualified technicians to come and install the distribution system on site and remain present and available throughout the event.

[0008] The installation and commissioning of these beer dispensing systems is therefore particularly long and complicated and cannot be carried out by an unqualified operator.

[0009] Beer dispensing systems are also known, such as that of US 10,787,357 B2, in which a beer tank is mounted on a trolley on which draft taps are also mounted. This dispensing system further comprises a cooling circuit comprising a cooling unit mounted on the trolley and a cooling coil surrounding the tank.

[0010] A disadvantage of this system is that the trolley used to support the tank, the cooling unit, and the draft valves is particularly heavy and bulky, making transporting the system particularly complicated. In addition, long connecting pipes must be used to transport a refrigerated fluid between the cooling unit and the coil surrounding the tank. This results in a significant heat exchange between the refrigerated fluid circulating in these connecting pipes and the ambient air, which is detrimental to the cooling of the tank and the beer it contains.

[0011] Statement of the invention

[0012] An object of the present invention is to propose a beer dispensing system which overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0013] To this end, the invention relates to a beer dispensing system comprising: a tank configured to receive beer; at least one draft tap cooperating with said tank and configured to dispense the beer contained in the tank when it is actuated; and a cooling circuit for said tank within which a refrigerant circulates, the cooling circuit comprising: a condensation unit comprising at least one compressor configured to compress the refrigerant and a condenser connected to the compressor and configured to change the refrigerant from the gaseous state to the liquid state, the condensation unit being mounted on the tank; and an evaporator connected to the condensation unit and at least partially surrounding the tank to circulate the refrigerant around the tank so as to cool the latter.

[0014] The beer dispensing system according to the invention is particularly suitable for use at festivals or events bringing together large numbers of people. The beer dispensing system allows beer to be served, in particular into consumers' glasses. Preferably, the tank is configured to contain at least 500 liters of beer, more preferably at least 1000 liters of beer.

[0015] Preferably, the evaporator is mounted to said tank, more preferably fixed to said tank.

[0016] The tank advantageously comprises a body. The tank advantageously has a side wall surrounded at least partially by said evaporator. Preferably, the evaporator is mounted to said side wall of the tank, more preferably fixed to the side wall of the tank. Preferably, but not limited to, the side wall of the tank comprises an external insulation layer. The tank is preferably essentially made of a metallic material, for example stainless steel.

[0017] Preferably, the tank is configured to be pressurized. One advantage is to push the beer toward said at least one draft tap in order to dispense the beer. In other words, the dispensing system is configured to generate a pressure inside the tank greater than atmospheric pressure. The tank then allows draft beers to be served.

[0018] The draft valve is preferably a tap spout. The beer dispensing system is configured to deliver beer from the tank to the draft valve. The at least one draft valve is capable of dispensing beer from the tank when actuated.

[0019] The beer dispensing system advantageously comprises a plurality of draft taps connected to the tank. These draft taps can be operated simultaneously in order to dispense a larger quantity of beer.

[0020] Without departing from the scope of the invention, the draw tap may be mounted on the tank or alternatively cooperate with the tank without being mounted there, for example by being connected to the tank by a beer dispensing pipe.

[0021] Preferably, the beer dispensing system comprises a flow meter for measuring the volume of beer dispensed. Preferably, the beer dispensing system comprises a device for measuring the volume of beer remaining in the tank.

[0022] Unlike prior art beer dispensing systems, in which the serving tank is connected to a separate tap configured to cool the beer coming from the tank at the time of its dispensing, the cooling circuit of the beer dispensing system according to the invention makes it possible to directly cool the tank and the beer contained therein. In a non-limiting manner, the cooling circuit makes it possible to maintain the beer contained in the tank at a temperature between 0°C and 5°C, preferably at a temperature of approximately 3°C, corresponding to an ideal temperature for consuming the beer.

[0023] Unlike systems according to the prior art, the cooling circuit of the system according to the invention is integrated and installed on the tank so that it is not necessary to connect the tank to a separate refrigerating tap. The invention makes it possible to avoid the delicate steps of connecting the connecting pipes between the tank and a tap, so that the installation of the beer dispensing system is particularly facilitated. The intervention of a qualified technician is not necessary to install the beer dispensing system according to the invention and to guarantee its proper operation. It is therefore not necessary for the technician to go on site and remains available throughout the use of the beer dispensing system.

[0024] The beer dispensing system is therefore delivered ready to use since no connection between the tank, the condensing unit and the tap is necessary. Its installation requires no other operation than supplying power to the compressor, for example by connecting its power cable to an electrical outlet.

[0025] Another advantage is that it allows for better preservation of the beer by keeping it refrigerated within the tank. In particular, the beer can be kept refrigerated inside the tank between two events. The beer distribution system according to the invention therefore also constitutes a solution for preserving beer.

[0026] The cooling circuit forms a closed and sealed loop, comprising at least the compressor, the condenser and the evaporator, within which the refrigerant circulates. The refrigerant circulates through the compressor, then through the condenser, then through the evaporator, and then back into the compressor.

[0027] The refrigerant is a fluid that allows the implementation of a refrigeration cycle. Such a refrigerant has a high heat absorption capacity. The cooling circuit of the beer dispensing system according to the invention does not use a heat transfer fluid, such as water, which would be cooled before circulating around the tank.

[0028] The evaporator is in fluid communication with the condensing unit, and in particular with the compressor and the condenser. The evaporator is connected to the compressor. The evaporator is in contact with the tank. Preferably, the evaporator surrounds the entire tank. The evaporator is arranged outside the tank. Preferably, the evaporator is attached to the tank, for example by welding.

[0029] The condensing unit advantageously has a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the evaporator having a first end connected to the fluid outlet and a second end connected to the fluid inlet. In other words, the evaporator allows the fluid to circulate from the fluid outlet to the fluid inlet of the condensing unit. Preferably, the compressor is connected to the fluid inlet of the condensing unit.

[0030] Preferably, the compressor is an electric compressor.

[0031] In a non-limiting manner, the condensing unit may comprise an expansion valve connected to the condenser. In this non-limiting embodiment, the expansion valve is arranged between the condenser and the evaporator. The condenser is configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant and the ambient environment. The condenser advantageously comprises a fan configured to carry out this heat exchange. Alternatively, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the condenser may comprise a tube, preferably a metal tube, describing a coil.

[0032] The cooling circuit is configured to subject the refrigerant to a refrigeration cycle, similar to the refrigeration cycle implemented in traditional refrigerators. In other words, the thermodynamic principle implemented in the present cooling circuit is similar to the thermodynamic principle implemented in a conventional refrigerator. The operation of the cooling circuit is based on the well-known principle of the phase change of the refrigerant, also called refrigerant fluid, within said cooling circuit.

[0033] More specifically, the compressor increases the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant, in its gaseous state, thus providing it with the energy necessary for a phase change. The condenser then performs a heat exchange between the hot, pressurized refrigerant leaving the compressor and the ambient environment. The refrigerant is then brought from its gaseous state to its liquid state by this heat release, while remaining at high pressure. In other words, the refrigerant condenses within the condenser.

[0034] The liquid refrigerant is brought to the evaporator and then circulates around the tank, within the evaporator. It then tends to pass into the gaseous state. The refrigerant absorbs some of the heat from the tank and the beer inside. As a result, the temperature of the tank, and therefore of the beer, decreases, while the refrigerant evaporates thanks to the thermal energy provided by the heat absorbed from the tank and the beer. The refrigerant is then conveyed, in the gaseous state, to the compressor where a new refrigeration cycle begins.

[0035] The cooling circuit of the beer dispensing system according to the invention, configured to subject the refrigerant to a refrigeration cycle, is more efficient than traditional systems providing for circulating an intermediate heat transfer fluid, for example cold water, around a tank, via a circulator and an additional heat exchanger.

[0036] In particular, the cooling circuit of the beer dispensing system according to the invention is more compact and lighter than such traditional systems. It also has better refrigeration efficiency, is simpler to use, is more robust and is less prone to technical failures.

[0037] This cooling circuit also makes it possible to reduce the contact surface area required with the tank to enable the latter to be cooled. For example, only five turns of the evaporator around the tank allow the tank to be cooled, even in high temperatures, which is impossible with a traditional system using an intermediate heat transfer fluid such as water. In particular, such a heat transfer fluid does not offer the heat transfer capacity provided by the phase change of the refrigerant of the system according to the invention, and the cooling capacity of these traditional systems is limited by the freezing point of the heat transfer fluid used. Conversely, the refrigerant used in the present cooling circuit makes it possible to overcome these limits and provides a much higher cooling capacity.

[0038] According to the invention, the condensing unit is mounted on the tank, so that the tank and the condensing unit can be transported together and no installation step of a condensing unit is necessary. The invention eliminates the need for a support for the condenser unit. Thanks to the invention, it is also not necessary to connect the condensing unit to the evaporator. The condensing unit and the evaporator are mounted on the tank and connected to each other in the factory. Once the tank is delivered and positioned in its location, the condensing unit can be powered in order to quickly cool the tank and the beer. Shortly after the condensing unit has been put into operation, the serving of fresh beer can be carried out easily by operating the at least one tap.The invention makes it possible to avoid any step of connecting the condensing unit to the evaporator when installing the beer distribution system at an event such as a festival, the connection having been made in the factory.

[0039] Another advantage of the beer dispensing system according to the invention is that the distance between the tank and the condensing unit is reduced, thus reducing the length of the conduits between the condensing unit and the portion of the evaporator surrounding the tank. Heat losses are reduced and the cooling of the beer is accelerated. The space requirement of the beer dispensing system is also particularly reduced since the condensing unit is not positioned next to the tank.

[0040] Preferably, the condensing unit is mounted directly to the body of the tank. Alternatively, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the condensing unit may be mounted indirectly to the body of the tank, for example by means of a mounting part itself mounted to the body of the tank.

[0041] Preferably, the tank comprises a mounting part to which said condensing unit is mounted. Said mounting part advantageously has the form of a support plate on which the condensing unit rests.

[0042] Preferably, the tank comprises a shell attached to the tank body and to which the condensing unit is mounted. Such a shell is a hollow cylindrical part forming a ring for the tank. This shell is preferably attached to an upper portion of the tank body. Preferably, the condensing unit is mounted on top of the tank.

[0043] Advantageously, the condensing unit is fixed to the tank. One advantage is that it improves the safety of people near the beer dispensing system by preventing the condensing unit from accidentally falling.

[0044] Preferably, but not limited to, said condensing unit is fixed to a mounting part which is itself fixed to the body of the tank. Preferably, the condensing unit is fixed to a ferrule, which is itself fixed to the body of the tank.

[0045] Preferably, the tank comprises an upper face, said condensing unit being mounted on said upper face of the tank. One advantage is to reduce the size of the tank while improving safety, particularly for children, by placing said condensing unit high up and making it difficult to access. In this non-limiting embodiment, said condensing unit, and therefore the compressor and the condenser, rest on the tank.

[0046] Advantageously, said condensing unit further comprises an expansion valve arranged between the condenser and the evaporator, the expansion valve being configured to lower the pressure of the refrigerant.

[0047] It is understood that the expansion valve is located downstream of the condenser and upstream of the evaporator. The expansion valve is connected to the outlet of the condensing unit.

[0048] The expander advantageously has the shape of a small diameter tube. The cross-section of the tube forming the expander is advantageously smaller than the cross-section of a metal pipe of the evaporator, in the case where the latter comprises such a metal pipe. The expander advantageously has a portion describing a coil.

[0049] The expansion valve lowers the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant entering the evaporator, lowering the boiling point of the refrigerant and thus facilitating its evaporation within the evaporator.

[0050] According to a particularly advantageous aspect, said at least one draw tap is mounted on the tank. One advantage is to reduce the length of a dispensing pipe connecting the tank to the draw tap. Another advantage is to allow the tank and the draw tap to be easily transported together. The draw tap can be mounted on the tank and connected to it at the factory, so that the operator does not need to make any connections. Once the tank is positioned at the desired location, beer can be dispensed immediately by actuating the draw tap. Transport, installation and commissioning of the beer dispensing system are therefore facilitated. The beer dispensing system can be delivered ready for use, with the cooling circuit and the draw tap being integrated into the tank. The beer dispensing system is also particularly compact and its footprint is further reduced.Notably, no separate support from the tank is required to support the draw valve.

[0051] Preferably, said tank comprises a side wall to which the draw valve is mounted. The draw valve may be mounted directly or indirectly to the side wall of the tank. The valve advantageously projects laterally from the side of the tank.

[0052] Preferably, the draw valve is mounted directly to the body of the tank. Alternatively, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the draw valve may be mounted indirectly to the body of the tank, for example by means of a mounting part itself mounted to the body of the tank.

[0053] Preferably, the tank comprises a ferrule fixed to the body of the tank and to which said at least one draw tap is mounted.

[0054] Without limitation, said side wall of the tank may comprise an external insulation layer.

[0055] Advantageously, the tank comprises a beer outlet to which said at least one draft tap is connected via a distribution pipe. The distribution pipe makes it possible to convey the beer from the inside of the tank to the draft tap. The beer is advantageously brought into the distribution pipe by pressurizing the inside of the tank.

[0056] Preferably, but not limited to, said beer outlet also allows the tank to be filled. To do this, the distribution pipe must first be disconnected from said beer outlet.

[0057] Preferably, said tank has a main part of cylindrical shape and a bottom extending under said main part, said beer outlet being formed in said bottom.

[0058] Said bottom advantageously forms a lower part of the tank. Said bottom advantageously defines a lower face of the tank.

[0059] Preferably, the bottom has a conical shape. Alternatively, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the bottom may have a flat or curved shape.

[0060] Preferably, the tank is configured to be positioned vertically, such that said cylindrical main portion extends vertically.

[0061] Preferably, the beer dispensing system further comprises a base cooperating with the tank and configured to rest on the ground so as to support said tank. One advantage is that it eliminates the need for a separate support device, for example a support trolley, to allow the tank to be installed. The base also ensures the stability of the tank.

[0062] Preferably, the tank is mounted on the base, more preferably is fixed to the base. The base preferably comprises at least three legs, more preferably four legs.

[0063] Preferably, the base is configured to cooperate with a lifting device, for example a pallet truck or a forklift to allow the transport of the tank.

[0064] Preferably, the base comprises a lifting frame configured to cooperate with a lifting device, for example a forklift, for transporting the beer dispensing system.

[0065] Preferably, said lifting frame extends between the legs of the base. Preferably, said lifting frame is fixed to the legs of the base, for example by welding.

[0066] Preferably, said lifting frame has at least one housing configured to receive a lifting tool of a lifting device, for example a fork arm of a pallet truck. Preferably, said housing has an upper wall configured to cooperate with said lifting tool of the lifting device.

[0067] Preferably, said at least one housing extends substantially horizontally.

[0068] Preferably, said lifting frame has at least two housings extending parallel to each other.

[0069] Preferably, said tank is generally cylindrical in shape and said base is configured to hold said tank substantially vertically. In other words, said tank preferably extends in a longitudinal direction, the base making it possible to hold the tank so that said longitudinal direction extends substantially vertically.

[0070] One interest is to reduce the congestion of the distribution system.

[0071] Advantageously, said at least one draw tap comprises a main body, a dispensing spout connected to said main body and an actuating lever pivotally mounted relative to the main body between a rest position and a beer dispensing position.

[0072] Such a draw tap is also called a draft spout.

[0073] Said draft tap is therefore distinguished from a swivel valve tap. This type of tap facilitates the serving of beer, as it can be operated very quickly and easily and as the dispensing spout helps to reduce the formation of foam in the glass. To dispense the beer, the operator places the dispensing spout in a glass and pivots the actuating lever to the dispensing position in order to serve the beer into the glass. The draft tap advantageously comprises a return element configured to return the actuating lever to the rest position when it is not actuated.

[0074] Preferably, said evaporator comprises a metal pipe, for example a copper pipe, surrounding the tank and describing at least one turn around said tank. Said metal pipe advantageously describes a plurality of turns around the tank. Preferably, said metal pipe surrounds a side wall of the tank. Said metal pipe extends outside the tank.

[0075] Without departing from the scope of the invention, said metal pipe may be made of aluminum or any other suitable metallic material.

[0076] Preferably, said metal pipe is fixed to the tank, more preferably fixed to the side wall of the tank. Preferably, said metal pipe is welded to the tank, more preferably, is welded to the side wall of the tank.

[0077] Preferably, said evaporator comprises a corrugated plate at least partially surrounding the tank, the refrigerant circulating between said corrugated plate and the tank. An advantage is to distribute the heat exchanges more uniformly over the periphery and the height of the tank, so as to homogenize the cooling of the beer contained in the tank. The corrugated plate is in contact with the tank, and preferably with the side wall of the tank. The refrigerant circulates between said corrugated plate and the side wall of the tank. Said corrugated plate is advantageously welded to the side wall of the tank, for example at a plurality of weld points.

[0078] Said embossed plate is advantageously formed from a metallic material. Said embossed plate advantageously surrounds the entire tank.

[0079] Without departing from the scope of the invention, said evaporator may combine a metal pipe surrounding the tank and a corrugated plate surrounding the tank.

[0080] Advantageously, said tank has a side wall comprising a main layer and an external insulating layer surrounding said main layer, said evaporator extending between said insulating layer and said main layer. One advantage is to keep the beer contained in the tank fresh for as long as possible, by reducing heat exchanges between the tank and the ambient environment. Another advantage is to accelerate the evaporation of the refrigerant and therefore the cooling of the beer by reducing heat exchanges between the evaporator and the ambient environment. Said external insulating layer is preferably formed of an insulating foam.

[0081] Preferably, the beer dispensing system further comprises a source of pressurized gas configured to inject gas into the tank so as to increase the pressure within the tank. One advantage is to push the beer towards said at least one draw tap in order to enable dispensing. It is understood that the source of pressurized gas makes it possible to generate a pressure inside the tank greater than atmospheric pressure.

[0082] The pressurizing device advantageously comprises a gas cylinder, for example a carbon dioxide cylinder, connected to the tank. The gas source is advantageously mounted on the tank.

[0083] Advantageously, said tank has a capacity of between 500 liters and 5000 liters, preferably around 1000 liters. One advantage is that it can store and distribute a large quantity of beer without having to refill the tank.

[0084] Brief description of the drawings

[0085] The invention will be better understood on reading the following description of embodiments of the invention given as non-limiting examples, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

[0086] [Fig. 1]Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of a beer dispensing system according to the invention;

[0087] [Fig. 2]Figure 2 is a sectional view of the beer dispensing system of Figure 1;

[0088] [Fig. 3]Figure 3 shows a second embodiment of a beer dispensing system according to the invention, the tank comprising a mounting ferrule; and

[0089] [Fig. 4]Figure 4 shows a third embodiment of a beer dispensing system according to the invention, the evaporator comprising a waffle plate. embodiments

[0090] A beer dispensing system comprising a tank, at least one draft valve, and a cooling circuit for cooling the tank and the beer therein.

[0091] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a first non-limiting embodiment of a beer dispensing system 10 according to the invention.

[0092] In Figure 1, which is a perspective view of the beer dispensing system 10, it can be seen that the latter comprises a tank 12 intended to receive beer. In a non-limiting manner, this tank has a capacity of approximately 1000 liters. It is formed from stainless steel. The tank 12 comprises a main part 14 of cylindrical shape and a bottom 16 connected to the main part 14. The bottom 16 is of conical shape. The tank 12 extends in a longitudinal direction L. The tank 12 further comprises an upper face 12a extending transversely to said longitudinal direction L.

[0093] The beer dispensing system 10 further comprises a base 18 configured to support the tank 12. The base 18 here consists of four feet 19 fixed to the tank 12, and more precisely to the bottom 16 of the tank. The base 18 is configured to rest on the ground, so as to hold the tank 12 substantially vertically. In other words, when the feet 19 rest on the ground, the longitudinal direction L of the tank 12 extends substantially vertically. The bottom 16 then extends under the main part 14 of the tank 12.

[0094] The base 18 is configured to cooperate with a handling means, for example a forklift. In particular, the feet 19 are sufficiently spaced apart to allow the passage of a lifting tool between them.

[0095] The base 18 further comprises a lifting frame 60 disposed between the four feet 19 of the base. Two housings 62 are formed in said lifting frame 60 and are configured to receive the tool of a lifting device, for example the fork arms of a pallet truck. Each of the housings 62 has an upper wall 64 configured to rest on said lifting tool.

[0096] The tank further comprises four stiffening rods 66, each connecting two adjacent legs 19. The stiffening rods 66 extend horizontally.

[0097] The tank 12 further comprises a side wall 13. Said side wall 13 comprises a main layer 13a made of metallic material, preferably stainless steel, and an external insulating layer 13b surrounding the main layer 13a.

[0098] The tank 12 includes a beer outlet 20 formed in the bottom 16 of the tank.

[0099] The beer dispensing system 10 further comprises a plurality of draft taps 30, here four draft taps 30. The draft taps 30 are connected to the beer outlet 20 via a main pipe 24 and four distribution pipes 26. More specifically, the main pipe 24 is connected to the beer outlet 20 of the tank 12. The four distribution pipes 26 are connected to the main pipe. Each of the distribution pipes 26 is connected to one of the draft taps 30.

[0100] The main pipe 24 is provided with a stop valve 25 for interrupting the flow of beer to the distribution pipes 26 and to the draw taps 30. The main pipe 24 is also provided with a non-return valve 27 preventing the beer present in the distribution pipes 26 from entering the tank 12. The beer distribution system 10 further comprises a flow meter 28 cooperating with the main pipe 24 and for measuring the volume of beer dispensed. Without departing from the scope of the invention, the beer distribution system 10 may also comprise a device for measuring the volume of beer remaining in the tank 12.

[0101] In a non-limiting manner, the beer outlet 20 also constitutes a beer inlet, allowing the filling of the tank 12, after having dismantled said non-return valve 27.

[0102] The draft taps 30 are draft spouts. They each comprise a main body 32, a dispensing spout 34 connected to said main body 32 and an actuating lever 36 pivotally mounted relative to the main body 32 between a rest position and a beer dispensing position.

[0103] The beer dispensing system 10 also includes a source 38 of pressurized gas, here consisting of a carbon dioxide cylinder. This source 38 of pressurized gas is connected to the tank via a gas line 39 connected to an opening formed in the upper face 12a of the tank 12. The source 38 of pressurized gas is configured to inject gas into the tank so as to increase the pressure within the tank 12. This pressure exerted by the gas pushes the beer towards the beer outlet 20, within the dispensing pipes 26 and up to the draft taps 30. The beer dispensing system then makes it possible to serve draft beers.

[0104] The source 38 of pressurized gas is mounted on the upper face 12a of the tank 12.

[0105] According to the invention, the beer dispensing system 10 further comprises a cooling circuit 40 configured to cool the tank 12 and the beer it contains. A refrigerant circulates within the cooling circuit 40 where it undergoes a refrigeration cycle similar to that implemented in traditional refrigerators. The operation of the cooling circuit 40 is based on the well-known principle of the phase change of the refrigerant, also called refrigerating fluid, within said cooling circuit 40.

[0106] The cooling circuit 40 comprises a condensing unit 42 and an evaporator 50. The cooling circuit 40 forms a closed and sealed loop within which the refrigerant circulates. The condensing unit 42 comprises a compressor 44, a condenser 46 and an expansion valve 48. The compressor 44 is connected on the one hand to an inlet of the condensing unit and on the other hand to the condenser 46. The condenser 46 is connected to the compressor 44 and to the expansion valve 48. In other words, the condenser is arranged between the compressor 44 and the expansion valve 48.

[0107] In a non-limiting manner, the compressor 44 is an electric compressor, which must be electrically powered by connecting its power cable 45 to an electrical outlet. The compressor 44 is configured to compress the refrigerant fluid in order to increase its pressure and temperature, thereby providing it with the energy necessary for a phase change.

[0108] The condenser 46 includes a fan. It is configured to perform a heat exchange between the hot, pressurized refrigerant fluid exiting the compressor 44 and the ambient environment. Also, the condenser 46 is configured to change the refrigerant fluid from its gaseous state to its liquid state by this release of heat, while remaining at high pressure. In other words, the refrigerant fluid condenses within the condenser 46.

[0109] The expansion valve 48 comprises a small diameter tube describing a coil 49 or a coil, as well as a rectilinear part connected to the evaporator 50. The expansion valve 48 is connected to the condenser 46 on the one hand and to a first end 50a of the evaporator on the other hand. The expansion valve 48 makes it possible to lower the pressure and the temperature of the refrigerant, in the liquid state, at the inlet of the evaporator 50, making it possible to lower the boiling point of the refrigerant and therefore facilitating its evaporation within the evaporator 50.

[0110] According to the invention, the condensing unit 42 is mounted on the tank 12 and more precisely on the upper face 12a of the tank. The condensing unit 42 is here fixed to the upper face of the tank. To do this, the condensing unit 42 comprises a fixing plate 43 on which the compressor 44, the condenser 46 and the expansion valve 48 are mounted. This fixing plate 43 is fixed on the top of the tank, and more precisely on the upper face 12a of the tank.

[0111] Since the condensing unit 42 is mounted on the tank 12, it can be transported with said tank. No installation or connection step of the condensing unit 42, in particular to the evaporator 50, is necessary before proceeding with the cooling of the tank 12. The logistics of transporting the beer dispensing system 10 and its installation at an event such as a festival are therefore facilitated. In addition, the distance between the condensing unit 42, and in particular the compressor 44, and the part of the evaporator 50 surrounding the tank 12 are particularly reduced. This makes it possible to reduce heat losses and the cooling of the beer is accelerated. The size of the beer dispensing system 10 is also particularly reduced and no additional support is necessary to carry the condensing unit 42.

[0112] In this non-limiting example, the evaporator 50 comprises a metal pipe 52 surrounding the tank 12 and describing a plurality of turns around the tank 12. The metal pipe 52, and therefore the evaporator 50, has a first end 50a connected to the expansion valve 48 and a second end 50b connected to the compressor 44. Said first and second ends 50a, 50b of the evaporator 50 are connected respectively to an outlet and an inlet of the condensation unit 42.

[0113] As can be seen in the sectional view of Figure 2, the metal pipe 52 of the evaporator 50 is in contact with the side wall 13 of the tank 12. More precisely, it is welded to the main layer 13a of the side wall 13 of the tank 12 and extends between said main layer 13a and the external insulating layer 13b of the side wall 13. The evaporator 50 is therefore mounted and fixed to the side wall 13 of the tank. The first end 50a of the evaporator is located in the lower part of the tank 12.

[0114] The turns are spaced so that the evaporator 50, and in particular the metal pipe 52, is distributed over substantially the entire height of the tank 12. This makes it possible to cool the tank 12 and the beer it contains evenly. In a non-limiting manner, the metal pipe 52 may be made of copper, aluminum, or any other suitable metal.

[0115] The refrigerant in the liquid state and at low pressure coming from the expansion valve 48 circulates in the evaporator 50. The refrigerant therefore circulates around the tank 12. The refrigerant tends to pass into the gaseous state and absorbs part of the heat from the tank 12 and the beer therein. As a result, the temperature of the tank 12, and therefore of the beer, decreases, while the refrigerant evaporates and passes into the gaseous state thanks to the thermal energy provided by the heat absorbed from the tank and the beer. The refrigerant in the gaseous state is then conveyed to the compressor 44 where a new refrigeration cycle begins.

[0116] In this non-limiting example, the draw taps 30 are also mounted to the tank, and more precisely to the side wall 13 of the tank 12, to which they are fixed. An advantage is that it is not necessary to use a separate support for the draw taps 30. Furthermore, the beer dispensing system 10 can be carried out immediately once the beer dispensing system 10 has been delivered, by actuating said draw taps 30. No connection step is necessary before the beer can be served. The beer dispensing system is therefore ready for use.

[0117] Figure 3 illustrates a second embodiment of a beer dispensing system 10 according to the invention. In this embodiment, the tank comprises a ferrule 17 fixed to the top of the tank 12, and more precisely to the upper face 12a of the tank. This ferrule 17 is cylindrical in shape and forms a ring extending from the upper face of the tank. Said ferrule 17 also projects axially, considered in the longitudinal direction L, on the top of the tank 12.

[0118] This ferrule 17 allows the mounting of the draw taps 30 as well as the condensing unit 42 to the tank 12. The draw taps 30 are mounted and more precisely fixed to said ferrule 17, so that they project laterally from said ferrule. Similarly, the fixing plate 43 of the condensing unit is mounted to said ferrule 17 by means of horizontal mounting rods 45, themselves fixed to the ferrule.

[0119] Figure 4 illustrates a third embodiment of a beer dispensing system 10 according to the invention. In this embodiment, the evaporator 50 comprises a corrugated plate 53 surrounding the tank 12. Said corrugated plate is fixed to the side wall 13 of the tank by a plurality of weld points. The corrugated plate is connected to the regulator 48 at a first end 50a of the evaporator. The corrugated plate is also connected to the compressor 44 via an evaporator conduit 54 disposed between the corrugated plate 53 and the compressor 44, and within which the refrigerant circulates.

[0120] The refrigerant circulates between the embossed plate 53 and the side wall 13 of the tank, from a lower portion of said embossed plate to an upper portion of the embossed plate, then into the evaporator conduit 54. The refrigerant passes from the liquid state to the gaseous state by circulating between said embossed plate 53 and the side wall 13 of the tank, thus making it possible to cool the tank and the beer it contains.

Claims

Claims 1. Beer dispensing system (10) comprising: a tank (12) configured to receive beer; at least one draw tap (30) cooperating with said tank and configured to dispense the beer contained in the tank when actuated; and a cooling circuit (40) of said tank within which a refrigerant circulates, the cooling circuit comprising: a condensation unit (42) comprising at least one compressor (44) configured to compress the refrigerant and a condenser (46) connected to the compressor and configured to change the refrigerant from the gaseous state to the liquid state, the condensation unit being mounted on the tank; and an evaporator (50) connected to the condensation unit and at least partially surrounding the tank to circulate the refrigerant around the tank so as to cool the latter.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein said condensing unit (42) is attached to the tank (12).

3. System according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the tank (12) comprises an upper face (12a), said condensing unit (42) being mounted on said upper face of the tank.

4. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said condensing unit (42) further comprises an expansion valve (48) disposed between the condenser (46) and the evaporator (50), the expansion valve being configured to lower the pressure of the refrigerant.

5. System according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said at least one draw tap (30) is mounted to the tank (12).

6. System according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said tank (12) comprises a beer outlet (20) to which said at least one draw tap (30) is connected via a distribution pipe (26).

7. System according to claim 6, in which said tank (12) has a main part (14) of cylindrical shape and a bottom (16) extending under said main part, said beer outlet (20) being formed in said bottom.

8. System according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a base (18) cooperating with the tank (12) and configured to rest on the ground so as to support said tank.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein said tank (12) is generally cylindrical in shape and wherein said base (18) is configured to hold said tank substantially vertically.

10. System according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein said at least one draw tap (30) comprises a main body (32), a dispensing spout (34) connected to said main body and an actuating lever (36) pivotally mounted relative to the main body between a rest position and a beer dispensing position.

11. System according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein said evaporator (50) comprises a metal pipe (52), for example a copper pipe, surrounding the tank (12) and describing at least one turn around said tank.

12. System according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said evaporator (50) comprises a corrugated plate (53) at least partially surrounding the tank (12), the refrigerant circulating between said corrugated plate and the tank.

13. System according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein said tank (12) has a side wall (13) comprising a main layer (13a) and an external insulating layer (13b) surrounding said main layer, said evaporator (50) extending between said insulating layer and said main layer.

14. The system of any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising a source (38) of pressurized gas configured to inject gas into the tank (12) so as to increase the pressure within the tank.

15. System according to any one of claims 1 to 14, in which said tank (12) has a capacity of between 500 liters and 5000 liters, preferably of the order of 1000 liters.

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