4" VM Build

[Salt Must Flow]

Hey Salt,

heads up on these rings.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B074T49J ... asin_title

They seem to be of good quality and I couldn't find any broken ones

I think that's the same link I posted previously. I recently bought some of those and it was the cheapest listing I could find.

[Bolverk]

Yup, those are the same ones

[Roo]

Roo, be sure to let us know how you like those new three segment clamps. I was thinking of getting a few to try also. I have a few 4’ connections that require more than a fair amount of tightening down to stop some minor leaking. (Maybe I have a spool with a slight warp, a bad gasket, or something else.). I’m hoping the three piece clamp will do a better job of keeping that leaking under control. To stop it now I’m tightening a few connections more than I think I should be.

I went with heavy duty three piece clamps in a number of sizes as samples, and then ordered a bunch of extra clamps after seeing the clamps and being happy with them. I can't upload the catalog due to the size of the PDF, but will post pic of the catalog. It lists the weights of each size clamp... the 6in is 1.41kg

I think the three piece leads to a firmer/tighter action and despite the price aim to use them for all larger clamps (above 3in). Until I replace all my light weight clamps, I will use the three pieces clamps at points commonly taken apart or mechanically significant (base of column etc).

Not only do they clamp better I feel they are easier to use when assembling without someone providing a third hard.

Link to Alibaba https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/ ... 70281.html

The shipping sucks due to the weight of the clamps.

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[higgins]

FWIW, I've been using the very cheap, flimsy triclamps (2" and 4") from Oakstills for over 4 years with no issues at all. I make 6-8 batches (pot, flute, & VM stills) per year that yield 1.5 to 2 gallons of finished product (at +/- 60%), so they've been used for at least 80 runs (stripping & spirit runs) with no failures. If I was to get into making higher volumes I might consider replacing them, but for now I'll stay the course.

On another note, today is the first time I've been able to get to HD since early December. I'm currently away from home and using a different wifi connection, so maybe my home connection is being blocked. I'll check into that tomorrow when I get home.