Packing all the way to the RC or leave a gap?

[PalCabral]

Hi Distillers.

I am using 70cm column for reflux distillation and have a shotgun Reflux Condenser at the top before the elbow and PC. For Reflux distillation, should I pack my column with Copper Mesh all the way up to the RC or leave a gap 2-4 inch just below the bottom of the RC?

[Tammuz]

2-4" below your takeoff I believe would be a better choice. If you have a sight glass below that I would pack up to the middle of the sight glass.

[shadylane]

I'd leave a gap to keep liquid that might be entrained in the vapor from getting past the shotgun.

[PalCabral]

Thanks guys!