Hello

[Project Galileo]

Hello.

I am new to this forum as a registered member and 2+ years into the hobby. A long time has been spent in these forums lurking, reading, and learning. All the major books recommended sit on my shelf and are worn from rereads. I have a handle on the big picture and my tools but obviously continue to grow and learn.

I use both an 8 and 13 gallon stainless steel milk can boiler and a 3" stainless steel, dual purpose, still tower originally from Moonshine Distiller that I picked up from a private seller. As a reflux tower I can put in 5, 5" copper mesh rolls to get the number of theoretical plates up around a 7.7 depending on reflux rate and run off some very pure, high % neutrals. The tower holds equilibrium well also. As a pot still I can blaze a stripping run in nothing flat or keep closer control as needed. It is a versatile column. I have used propane exclusively until the last 6 months when I got around to building a 220v/5500 watt phase angle controller.

Currently my interests are neutrals/vodkas, AG single malts, and perfecting my cuts. I prefer to ferment off grain so I sparge/lauter with an 8 gallon stainless mash tun with a false bottom, welded valve and thermometer, and bazooka screen.

During runs and cuts I focus on touch, feel, smell, taste, and the more subjective and esoteric side of running my still. However, I believe that you cannot manage it if you don't measure it so I do also take notes and keep spreadsheets full of measurements from my calculations, temp gauges, hydrometers, refractometers, and controller. Someone once summed it up well and said, "I am not a control freak, I am a control enthusiast." Clearly this hobby appeals to my OCD issues.

My hobbies include staring at bubbling air locks of fermenters for long periods while daydreaming about the next run and that great American single malt I am trying to perfect. I can also be found staring at a dripping liebig condenser for hours while munching on my wife's molasses cookies asking myself, "why haven't you got around to using molasses in that rum you always wanted to get to?"

[ben stiller]

That was a very entertaining introduction and gave good insight into who you are and your experience level. I believe that you will have a lot to offer here. Welcome.

[Bigbob]

Welcome Project Galileo, you look to be plenty experienced. Enjoy the forums and stay safe!

[FullySilenced]

Welcome! Enjoy your visit here with us... MAKE SURE YOU READ THE REQUIRED INFORMATION

Welcome to the forum... Please read the forum rules and regulations, safety tips and the new distillers section when you can... this may help you get a few questions answered early...

I also have links in my signature line...

Happy Stillin,

FS

Give this post a read will help you a lot...

http://homedistiller.org/forum/viewtopi ... 15&t=52975