Why not a big column!

zeff · Post by **zeff** » Sun Jul 30, 2006 12:52 am

Just wanted to get people reasons for having small packed columns instead of longer ones. Most people seem to have columns about 1 to 1.2 meters long. The logistics of having a long column arnt exactly impossible, mines 2 meters long and is great. I started off with a 1 meter column and had to hold it at about 10-15mls/min at the start of the run to get 96% alcohol. By simply putting another meter of packed column under the existing column i was able to collect the first bottle off a 25L wash at 70mls/min at 96%. I just dont see why if you go to the trouble of making a nixon/stone sort of still why you would have a short column which significantly decreases performance

maze48 · Post by **maze48** » Sun Jul 30, 2006 6:58 am

I have limited amount of heigth.

stoker · Post by **stoker** » Sun Jul 30, 2006 9:56 am

and it's not stable anymore

zeff · Post by **zeff** » Sun Jul 30, 2006 4:56 pm

ah yes fair reasons, i didnt think of strength or stability issues. My still uses a keg and chunky 2" fittings so its fairly solid

Big J · Post by **Big J** » Mon Jul 31, 2006 1:35 am

Probably also a money issue. Those large diameter pipes aren't cheap. I also think its a question of how much liquor you really want/need to produce. If you are just producing for your own consumption how much booze do you really need to make? I already make more than I can possibly drink (and still accomplish other things in my life

). Also, I enjoy the time it takes to run the still, listening, smelling, tasting, so I'm not worried if it takes a few extra hours with a shorter column.

Cheers,
J