Bung

Bung is a term with several meanings, primarily used in the barrel making and brewing industries. It can refer to a stopper for closing a hole in a container, or the hole itself. Bungs are essential components in the storage and aging of many types of liquids, including wine, beer, and whiskey.

Types of Bungs

There are two main types of bungs used in the barrel making industry: the shive bung and the keystone bung.

The shive bung is larger and is used to fill the barrel. It is typically made of wood, although plastic versions are also available. The shive bung is inserted into the bunghole during the filling process and is then sealed to prevent leakage.

The keystone bung is smaller and is used for sampling the contents of the barrel. It is typically made of cork or rubber. The keystone bung is inserted into a smaller hole in the side of the barrel, allowing the brewer to take samples without disturbing the main seal.

Use in Brewing

In the brewing industry, bungs are used to seal fermentation vessels. During fermentation, the bung allows carbon dioxide to escape while preventing oxygen and contaminants from entering. Some bungs are designed to allow a controlled amount of oxygen to enter, which can influence the flavor of the beer.

Use in Barrel Making

In barrel making, the bung is an essential component. The bunghole, which is the hole into which the bung is inserted, is typically drilled into the side of the barrel. The size and placement of the bunghole can influence the aging process of the liquid inside the barrel.

See Also

• Barrel
• Brewing
• Fermentation (food)
• Wine making