ccvm build idea

[aarons8181]

this is my build idea first off what is thought of the overall design and parts? and the main column still undecided on 36" or 48"? also on what packing might use in that column? on both the csst condensers plan to use 1/2" csst but the length undecided will have a 6" column above the tee and a 24" column for final? also any suggestions if could add another reducer from 2" to maybe 1/2" to catch spirits,not sure due to the csst lines coming out of the 2" tube? ok thanks in advance

[OtisT]

Hi Aarons. Do you have any ceiling height restrictions? Just reviewing what you have there and don’t think that will fit under and 8’ ceiling, so hopefully you have a tall space. The CC part of your CCVM also requires even more space above the top of the column for managing your RC height.

Regarding how much packing height, it depends on what you expect. On a spirit run with Low Wines in the boiler, I can get 92%-93% ABV from only 2’ of packing in my 3” VM. With 3’ I can easily get 95+%. Even more packing height can make the system a bit more forgiving with regard to tuning to get max production at a high ABV. I.e. If you have ceiling height for 4’ of packing, do it. Keep in mind that in a CCVM column, the RC needs to be lowered below the takeoff into the main column for 100% reflux. You can’t pack the column section where the RC needs to go, so this needs to be factored into your plans when understanding the max height of packing you will have.

Especially for folks new to distilling, a sight glass just below the tee is a beautiful thing. Helps you learn about and manage your reflux ratio and will allow you better manage your power settings for max efficiency. It will add more height to your rig.

How much heat power are you planning for? With a 15.5g keg, a 5500w element is really nice.

I have used both copper mesh and ceramic rasching rings in my 3” column and have no problems with either. I feel the copper mesh gives me better separation for the height, and the weight is much less. It will take about 2 lb of copper mesh for a 3’ section. Mesh does not require a screen or similar to hold the mesh in place like the rings do. If your running an all stainless rig, then the copper mesh will also help remove sulphur and you definitely need some copper in the system somewhere. The ceramic rings work great too. The extra mass of the rings offers some thermal stability over the mesh, but this should not be a problem for you if you insulate your primary column. You can always add a single roll of copper mesh above the ceramic if you want to use the rings for separation but still need to add some copper.

Adding a vapor temp thermometer at the takeoff location can help you manage fractioning. You can always manage separation levels by measuring ABV output, but I find a thermometer to be much, much more convenient and timely. Placement of the probe in a CCVM is often in the horizontal section of the tee branch.

Just my opinion and some food for thought. Otis

[aarons8181]

Thanks Otis,have not reached the power part as of yet.think will go with the copper packing and play with 2' or 3'. And as far as the rc do you think should make top taller then 6"? And yes I know the rc as to go below the takeoff,thanks for reminder.room not a big issue as long has under 10 ft lol...again thanks

[Miket1104]

How do you build the condenser on the column still on the picture above?

[kimbodious]

gday Aarons8181
Check my signature vvv for a link to a photo of my CCVM. It is a 2” system on a 50 L beer keg (2200W element on 240 VAC).There is 48” packed column (stainless steel pit scrubbers) then an 8” Tee with sightglass, then another 8” Tee for the offtake then a 12” section for the RC coil. I need another 6” ontop of that for raising the RC coil. That is an extra 6’10” on top the beer keg boiler! I need to use a stool to be able to reach the RC coil to raise and lower it!

The plus side is that it outputs 95% ABV at 1.5 L per hour at less than 1600W.

Search dimroth CSST to see how others have made their PC with CSST.

Miket1104, I made my RC coil using 72” section of corrugated stainless steel tube CSST