Column size and length

[S-Cackalacky]

I've been searching for information about what size (diameter) and length I need for the column on a small pot still (20 qt. stock pot) with a domed ss mixing bowl lid. I'm thinking that my searching skills must really suck because I know this has probably been covered at some point in the past.

First, let me explain - the design of this still is changing on the fly. I'm working with a very limited budget which dictates many of the design decisions I'm making. My goal is to have a good, safe and effective pot still when it's finished. Problem is - I can't simply draw up a design, go out and buy up all the supplies at once, and then put the whole thing together. For instance, I picked up the ss stock pot in a flea market for $15, in a different flea market I found an eight feet piece of half inch pipe for $10, and I'm using PVC pipe (1" X 5' piece for $2.98) for the water jacket of my liebig condenser.

I had planned to use 1.5 inch copper pipe for the column (maybe 24" tall). However, it's a little pricey for me. I'm wondering if 1" would work - I don't know. This has been a sticking point in the design. I feel fairly confident with everything else. Would a smaller diameter column create a problem with the distillation process or effect the quality of the spirits? Could someone offer some advice or point me to the information here on the forum?

Thank you,
S-C