Keg Questions?

[Wilder]

Hey,

How's it going? I am brand new to distilling and have a few questions. I will be using a ss keg so do I have to cut the keg open with a grinder and then use the easy flange method or is the easy flange removable everytime so I could just pour my wash through original hole in the keg? Can I use an electric hot plate/stove for the heating element or is that not big enough for the keg? Here is my shopping list so far.

SS keg
silver solder (no lead)
Flux (no lead)
2" copper pipe(or the biggest I can get at home depot or lowes)
copper reducers
45 degree copper fitting
20' 3/8" copper condenser line
tri-clamp
5 gallon bucket
grommet(for condensers exit)
Electric hot plate

Does this sound about right?

Thanks

[Popcorn Fan]

Wilder, don't cut the keg, just pull the spear out (look on youtube for a video on how to do it) Running on a hotplates not going to work - sorry dude. Look at Gas or a 2200watt internal element (thats' what I use)

Stay away from rubber grommets, go for flour paste \ dough.

Look at scrap yards for your copper, it'll be cheaper (money better in your pocket than theirs)

With your condensor I would go 1/4 inch, do a bit more reading before you buy anything, have a look at differnt designs, I am a big fan of Manus condensor controlled still. Boka is also very good.

[Fastill]

Looks like you are trying to build a worm bucket potstill, then keep the 3/8 coiled copper, 1/4 is too small.
You will need to decide how much column you want to use for the 2", It would really help if we knew what design you are trying to build.

[Braz]

Our very own Kentucky Shiner at http://www.hillbillystills.com can hook you up with a stainless tri-clamp ferrule, teflon gasket and the tri-clamp for short money.

Don't know where you are but if you have a Menard's hardware store near you check there for pipe. Around here they are about 40% less than Lowe's for 2" pipe and HD doesn't even carry it.

[Wilder]

I was just thinking of making a regular pot still with a worm. Keg with 2 inch copper to a 3/8 inch worm running through a bucket of ice and water. Is that a good idea or should I go with a different design?
And thanks for the help. It comes very appreciated

[olddog]

I was just thinking of making a regular pot still with a worm. Keg with 2 inch copper to a 3/8 inch worm running through a bucket of ice and water. Is that a good idea or should I go with a different design?

I and many others started this way, it will work well.


OD

[Kentucky shinner]

Most of us started this way I agree with OD it will work well. Great for learning the fundamentals on. Take your time and go slow. The rubber gromet is fine for your condenser bucket, no worries there. Do not go below 3/8 for your worm coil 1/2" would work better for you. Good luck and happy building.
KS

[TK Spirits]

I agree with fastill, I have a 1/4 coil condenser and it take a long dern time for my brew to start pouring out, then again I do have 16 coils and I'm using 10' of it My output comes out in the 40º F range all the way through..