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I have read several posts on silicone gaskets. I know Teflon tape is the only material endorsed here to be used on gasket material. I read the #8 rule.
I am trying to follow these rules to keep myself and others safe.
I have converted my still to electric.
Any area that comes in contact with vapor is soldered with no gasket used. But in the bottom where the mash is, the only way I can get it to keep from leaking is to use a food grade silicone o ring behind a stainless nut.
Is the main concern here having the concentraited alcohol vapor come in contact? The mash would be liquid and lower alcohol content.
I'm looking for ideas here, but it seems in some places you have to use a gasket.
So is it safer in the mash than in the vapor chamber?
Thanks

In the boiler you usually need to use a gasket. I use silicon impregnated cork for my elements, and for things like drain ports I try to use copper washers. You can use any gasket you like if you encapsulate it with a spiral wrap of PTFE thread tape. That will be acceptable even in the vapour path.

The main issue in the boiler is that it needs to withstand boiling liquids, there is no point using plastic washers that will turn brittle. The alcohol issue is not so important because the ABV is so much lower.

Thank you for the reply.