Legal/Construction Advice for a University Club

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uwchmebrew
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Legal/Construction Advice for a University Club

Post by uwchmebrew »

We are a ChemE university brew club located at the University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Going into the 2022 academic year (Autumn) we are looking to expand our club to the world of distillation. We hope to begin by constructing a fractional column still; however, we are not very experienced in the world of constructing food-grade distillation setups. Additionally, we are looking to learn more about the specific legality of ethanol distillation and/or other uses for our prospective still. Any advice would be greatly appreciated, Thanks!
The Baker
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Re: Legal/Construction Advice for a University Club

Post by The Baker »

Hi, and welcome.

I have no legal expertise but;

Distillation is probably illicit in your country. Technically...
Even if your state says it is okay that would be overruled by federal law.

But maybe your university chemistry (or whatever) department could have a legal still for educational purposes.
Or maybe you could approach a commercial distillery who could let you gain some experience...

Geoff
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Re: Legal/Construction Advice for a University Club

Post by Tummydoc »

Greetings from a fellow Husky. Unless you obtain a commercial license, distillation is illegal under both federal and state law. RCW66.44.14O states that possession of a still, or even a mash capable of producing spirits is a gross misdemeanor. First conviction is fined no less than $500 and no less than 6 months in county jail. Not sure if that's been prosecuted in last 30 years, but you don't want to be the first case. Silly really since you already are guilty as a beer homebrewer of possessing a mash capable of producing spirits.

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Stonecutter
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Re: Legal/Construction Advice for a University Club

Post by Stonecutter »

Other than finding out if you can obtain a “feul permit”. I would assume you’re SOL here in the land of the free.

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Re: Legal/Construction Advice for a University Club

Post by LWTCS »

UC Davis among others have a program.
Provisional laboratory are permits are available.

Just reach out to a school that has a fuel (or the like) program. They can get you pointed in the right direction.

The TTB are also very helpful and will indeed be the most qualified source of answers to your questions. Though I would frame your inquires to shed the best possible light on what you are trying to accomplish.

As far as building a proper fractional column goes, everything you need is here. Be measured in your approach. The amount of info here can be a bit overwhelming and does need time to absorb into your complete understanding.
Trample the injured and hurdle the dead.
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