Hi
I have build my reflux still from a metal cooker an a copper 42mm x 1100mm pipe. i had some problems wit soldering as I dont have any expierence, also I have used old solder and don't know if it contains any lead. Also i have used a high temperature resistant silicone over the loldered joints as I am shure the soldering is bad and there may be leach...
after all mu still works well and I have distilled some amount of alcohol, also I discarded first 100 g
But I am very concerned about solder may containing lead and that silicone used.. Just want to know is there any way to test the alcohol to know if I can drink it.
I have heard about testing with light the spirit up: fom wikipedia
A common folk test for the quality of moonshine was to pour a small quantity of it into a spoon and set it alight. The theory was that a safe distillate burns with a blue flame, but a tainted distillate burns with a yellow flame. Practitioners of this simple test also held that if a radiator coil had been used as a condenser, then there would be lead in the distillate, which would give a reddish flame. This led to the phrase, "Lead burns red and makes you dead."
so I tested mine and it was like blue at the base but then goes yellow up (no red)
Please let me know what should I do, is there any way to filter alcohol for heavy metals, does polishing with carbon help?
also my distillate comes very cloudy when diluted with water (i have tried tap and bottled water) shall i use spring watter?
also i tried to drink my alcohol (about 300-400 grams 40%)and i had some hangover next morning
concerned about lead
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