Will my condensor be enough?

[Chiller]

So I am set on constructing my own 4" vm - partly from parts of discontinued projects. One of those parts is an un shelled shotgun condensor i plan to use as a crossflow reflux condensor, but before I build I'd like to hear some of your opinions on whether it would be enough to provide full reflux for the 4" column.

It consists of 13 evenly spaced, 4" long, 1/2" dia tubes - if that sounds familiar, it's because my original intention had been to use it as a dephlegmator in a bubble cap. Thats also why I believe it will provide full reflux - I recall reading many flute users equilibriating in full reflux from similar setups.

I would also like some advice on column height: I am going to dismiss the whole ratio thing straight away as, logically, it doesn't make sense. Anyway, the ceiling is 2.4m high so thats not a major issue, but I am quite short so the 'taller is better' attitude has its limits. The speed I am looking for is anything above that which a 2" of the same design can achieve at azeotrope purity (assume unlimited power), can I get away with 1m packed on a 50l keg boiler

That out of the way, the only other questions I have regard restriction: what is the purpose of restriction-induced turbulence?; and would a 2" restriction to the crossflow, and a 2" vapor takeoff work?

Cheers

[rad14701]

The "ratio thing" only works for columns 2" in diameter and under... A maximum packed column section height of 48" - 60" should be more than adequate for 3" - 4"... You can play with the HETP calculator if you require confirmation on that or just want to play with the numbers...

As for the reflux condenser, my only potential concern is whether any vapor might make it through the short 4" section if running like a dephlegmator... For a CM I wouldn't be as concerned as I am for a VM... But what have you got to lose by trying aside from a little alcohol vapor... You can always make a new reflux head if it doesn't knock 100% of the vapor down during equilibrium or spirit take off...

[Prairiepiss]

You said you were going to use it as a crossflow condenser. Then said run it like a dephlagmater like on a plated column. I'm cornfused? Is the vapor going to be on the inside or the outside of the 1/2" tubes?

[mash rookie]

Your condenser sounds like it would be way over kill for a dephlag or reflux condenser for any type column. With that much coolant you will have more issues contolling the coolant. How did you get 13 in a four inch pipe? I am asuming that coolant flows through the 1/2 tube when you say un-shelled?

It would not work as a product condenser. The vapor needs time to condense. Time equals distance in a product condenser. Short and cold is not as effective as long and warm.

[Chiller]

Sorry praerie, the water will flow through the thirteen 1/2" tubes and it will be mounted horizontally, much like a crossflow. The tubes are spaced loosely enough so that I should be able to fit some packing in there to slow things down a bit, with that I reckon it will be enough.

Thanks for height reccomendations Rad, will probably start off 120cm then tri clamp more on if necessary.

Fingers crossed!