What’s on Tap? The Rise of Custom 3D Printed Tap Handles

By on January 11th, 2025 in news, Usage

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Custom 3D Printed Beer Tap Handle [Source: Zandelay Industries]

Charles R. Goulding and Andrea Albanese explore how 3D printing is transforming the beverage industry with customizable and cost-effective tap handles.

Bars, restaurants, and homebrewers alike are elevating their tap service by leveraging 3D printing solutions.  3D printed tap handles are highly customizable, offering a personalized and unique solution for keg taps everywhere. Custom tap handles are increasingly being used in breweries, wineries, homebrew setups, bars, restaurants, and weddings.

One of the most notable advantages of 3D printed tap handles is increased flexibility. 

Bars and Restaurants can introduce new tap beverages quicker than ever with a custom 3D printed tap handle that is ready in a matter of days instead of months. 

Craft Breweries & Wineries The craft brewery and winery sectors continue to grow in the U.S., producing over 35 million barrels of beer and wine annually.  Craft breweries and wineries also benefit greatly from 3D printed tap handles, as they can easily and frequently rotate offerings in their tasting rooms. 

Cocktails on Tap The kegged cocktail market is rapidly growing thanks to its convenience and consistency, particularly for high-volume cocktail bars.  As a relatively new market, most cocktail tap handles are 3D printed for efficiency and flexibility.

Hold the Alcohol 3D printed tap handles are excellent solutions for non-alcoholic keg options such as Kombucha, Nitrogen-infused cold brew, seltzer, etc.

3D Printed Custom Tap Handles [Source: Zandelay Industries]

Durability, functionality, and precision are paramount in the design of tap handles.  Thermoplastics, such as PETG and PLA, are often used for their high tenacity, temperature resistance, and level of detail. This design approach enables a high level of customization while maintaining durability and functionality.

Conclusion

The beverage industry has a continuously expanding array of seasonal new and improved beverages. Visually impressive custom tap handles are a great way to showcase new beverage products and brands. Historically, customized tap handles were very expensive.  3D printing provides a cost-effective way for beverage sellers to distinguish themselves in a very competitive market.

Zandelay Industries is based on Long Island, New York and offers a wide array of 3D printing design & production services.  With expertise in custom tap handles, Zandelay Industries offers a turn-key process including design, prototyping, and fabrication – customized for your specifications. Zandelay Industries has a robust product line ranging from automotive parts to tools.  Zandelay is the preferred 3D printing provider for air force bases, law enforcement agencies, Formula One drivers, and design enthusiasts alike.

By Charles Goulding

Charles Goulding is the Founder and President of R&D Tax Savers, a New York-based firm dedicated to providing clients with quality R&D tax credits available to them. 3D printing carries business implications for companies working in the industry, for which R&D tax credits may be applicable.