Critique this combo still

[crunchman]

I bought a new still (I know, I coulda built it for half the price) it's a "combo" still and it operates in reflux mode without a

valve or take off.The seller claims it can produce about 90% in reflux mode but I wonder about the inability to close off the output

in reflux mode.Anyway, looks like a substantial condenser, hope it works well and suppose it will be a good starter still to get my feet wet.

Will probably extend the column since the 1.5" copper is "affordable".What do you think ?? here's the link http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ... gory=38172" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" rel="nofollow

[olddog]

Its just a potstill with or without packing, the copper to build would be less than $100 +boiler.

OD

[kiwistiller]

the 'reflux' mode isn't reflux mode in the way we'd normally talk about it on this site. that is not a forced reflux, but relies on passive heat loss to the environment. This is also called power management. It's not ideal for a couple of reasons, firstly any reflux that is generated is generally around the walls not mingling in the middle like we want, and secondly in order to get that reflux you're going to have to run bloody slow.

sorry

the pot still looks alright although that's a pretty short liebig...

Kiwi

[olddog]

the pot still looks alright although that's a pretty short liebig

And far too fat.

OD

[Casper]

Hey! Who you callin fat OD!? Lol. Sorry. Had to put my two sense in.

[crunchman]

OK, I have some copper packing coming from Milehi. My thought was to add lenght to the column and install a needle valve also,

I suspect this would increase the efficiency?? Maybe add another 10" to the 1.5" column and insulate??........Thanks

[rad14701]

That still write-up sure sounds familiar, like our old friend that has so many different websites touting great stills that are junk... You'll definitely want to remove the foam lid seal and use flour paste... The price sounds high to me for what you are getting...

Just my two cents... Personally, I would build rather than buy that rig...

[Whitedog]

Somebody asked this guy how the unit refluxed and he replied... "trade secret"... WTF

[crunchman]

Yes, oh well.I do like the clamps and the fact that the column is easily removable, my intention was to build a BOK but my mobility

is limited at the moment to look for parts and such.We'll give it a run in pot-still mode and see what she's got.I can make

improvements from there.He seems to be counting the bowl as a "plate' I guess.I'll report back when she arrives, hope the boiler is of

descent quality, its something I can build on and is storable!


Should I pack the column or just use it as a pot-still ??

[captin-ahab]

Should I pack the column or just use it as a pot-still ??

no need for packing in a pot still.......

+1 on the flour paste

If it dont work right just take the top off and run a worm instead.

[blanikdog]

... Should I pack the column or just use it as a pot-still ??

Depends on what you want to make.

blanik

[crunchman]

blanik, For my first run I'll prolly just shoot for a very conservative middle cut, I was planning to take off in 250ml increments

and see how it goes, I have to see how effectively I can see/feel/taste to make cuts.I'll discard the first 100 ml.I still have some planning to do like

deciding if I need ice or just plain water,etc. I suppose if it will help the purity during the spirit run I'll go with it (packing) I don't know if I'm ready to

get into flavor runs yet. Also, I heard baking soda and salt added just prior to the spirit run helps create some distinction and makes cuts

easier ?? I really need to just do a first run and see what happens with the knowledge I've aquired Thanks