# Force Carbonation Time Calculator

Force carbonation time is the number of days a keg takes to reach a target CO₂ level at a given pressure and temperature. CO₂ dissolves into beer following an exponential approach to equilibrium — the rate depends on the pressure differential between applied gas and the equilibrium pressure for the target carbonation, and on the beer temperature.

Set and forget works, but it helps to know roughly when the beer will be ready.

HTML version: https://brewgravity.com/calculators/carbonation-time/

## Inputs

- **Applied pressure (psi)** (min 0, step 0.5) — default: 12
- **Keg temperature (°C)** (step 0.5) — default: 4
- **Target CO₂ volumes** (min 0, step 0.1) — default: 2.4

## Outputs

- **days**: Estimated time
- **eqVols**: Equilibrium CO₂ at this pressure
- **eqPsi**: Equilibrium pressure for target

## FAQ

### Is this exact?

No — it is an estimate. The actual time depends on keg geometry, fill level, agitation and how well sealed the connections are. Treat it as a planning figure, not a stopwatch.

### Will shaking the keg speed it up?

Yes, dramatically — shaking increases the gas–liquid contact area. You can carbonate a keg in minutes by rocking it at 30 psi, but the result is hard to control and easy to overcarbonate.

### What if my pressure is below the equilibrium pressure?

The beer will never reach your target carbonation at that pressure. Either raise the pressure or lower the target. The calculator will tell you what carbonation level you will actually reach at your current setting.

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Source: https://brewgravity.com — Free force carbonation time calculator estimating days to reach target CO₂ volumes at a given keg pressure and temperature, with equilibrium CO₂ at the applied pressure.