Airstill top lifts up while distilling.

[Usge]

I wont' argue any defense of an airstill, or argue anyone's opinions about them. But, just for factual reference so we have the correct information we are talking about: The "distiller" models are not entirely identical to the water purifier versions. They do share the same common manf of parts...but the alc versions have lower watt heating units and higher speed cooling fans compared to it's sister/cousin water distiller. I've had/used both. It's enough of a difference to notice in operation...but I'm not sure it really makes much of a difference to the overall points made about these units (one way or the other).

They BOTH share the problem with plastic between the coil output and the collection vessel. And it's nasty chinese smelly loaded with chemicals plastic too. There are mods (listed in the reading section) to by-pass and get around some of these issues....but in the end...it doesn't change what it is..nor how it functions overall. I think the stealth/coffee pot kind of thing is what appeals to most people more than anything else.

[Prairiepiss]

They also bag manure and sell it as expensive fertilizer. And have al kinds buying it. But its still shite in a bag. That really could be had for free. With a little leg work.

Just sayin.

[Odin]

Guys,

With all respect: I think I did a good job in answering the OP's question.

The anymosite against airstills is fine with me. No problem. Or at least: "not my problem".

I will leave it at that.

Good day to you all, Odin.

[Prole]

Better to get an alembic like on of these, http://www.hogacompany.com/distillers_pricelist.htm. I can get up to about 84 abv which is more than sufficient.

[nitrous]

for what it is worth, at least one manufacturer offers glass replacement for the outflow.
nitrous

[Usge]

I know some have offered glass collection receptacles, but they still have the problem with the nose being plastic..ie., the distillate drips out of the stainless coil into a plastic nose/bag then drips down into the receptacle/pot for collection. It's always been easy to replace the plastic jug it comes with with a jar or glass or etc..to collect in. Less easy is addressing the plastic area between the output coil and nose.

[nitrous]

I know some have offered glass collection receptacles, but they still have the problem with the nose being plastic..ie., the distillate drips out of the stainless coil into a plastic nose/bag then drips down into the receptacle/pot for collection. It's always been easy to replace the plastic jug it comes with with a jar or glass or etc..to collect in. Less easy is addressing the plastic area between the output coil and nose.

No, this is an addon beyond the recepticle.
The price is an added $8.00 over usual price

nitrous

[Coaster]

@ nitrous,

Could you provide amplifying information on this “glass replacement for the outflow” that you referring to?

Regards,
Coaster

[Usge]

Yes, I'd be interested to see that too. Nitrous, are you saying it has "glass" on the end of the coil inside the head...leading out to the end of the nose, where it then drips into a collection vessel? That would be new for sure.

[drpotoroo]

The air still I bought has NO plastic at the end of the condenser tube. Unless it is the plastic hood being referred to. As yet I have never seen the hood come into any contact with distillate. I imagine it is there for safety if the still pukes. I measure 85% ABV running 40% through again if I cut conservatively. Nevertheless, I am only playing with this to learn while I slowly educate myself on building a real still using advice from these forums and the parent site.

I appreciate the tips on controlling the power level, in the meantime.

[drpotoroo]

Actually, anyone know where a voltage controller can be obtained inn Australia? I can only locate them for different input voltages or different plug configurations than we use here.

[Usge]

The air still I bought has NO plastic at the end of the condenser tube. Unless it is the plastic hood being referred to. As yet I have never seen the hood come into any contact with distillate. I imagine it is there for safety if the still pukes. I measure 85% ABV running 40% through again if I cut conservatively. Nevertheless, I am only playing with this to learn while I slowly educate myself on building a real still using advice from these forums and the parent site.

I appreciate the tips on controlling the power level, in the meantime.

Would be very helpful if you could post a pic?? Or a link? Mainly because if this is a new model different from past ones...I would like to update the reading lounge with info on it. I would appreciate it very much.

I'm no "lectricion", so somebody else would need to confirm this....but I think I recall some people use router speed controllers (variable), to control voltage and/power for heating elements, etc. Most of the one's I've seen are 10amps and designed to work with standard routers. You plug your device into the controller..and then it has a variable dial/knob to control the output/rate. They aren't that expensive (about 21-30 bucks). Again, I would wait until someone who has more experience with such things to advise whether this would work or not (and not burn up your unit in the process).

I'm less sure about the AU models/specs. But a quick search did turn this up http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=KC5478

Pricey if you ask me.