Otis’ Mini Boiler Build

[OtisT]

Otis’ Mini Boiler Build

I want to make a small volume boiler for a new still. The minimum volume in my 15.5 G boiler is 4 gallons and I need something else for running much smaller volumes.

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Boiler Pan:
I picked up a cute little 10L keg today for my new project. I was considering using a 1/6 bbl keg which has the same diameter (same minimum volume level) but I like the lower height of the 10L keg for this new rig, thinking I would like to run this sitting on a counter. I may later regret limiting my max volume, but if I do I can always make another boiler in the future.

Element Attachment:
I have a small Dernord 500 W cartridge heater element that runs on 110V. The element is 1/2” MNPT threaded so I will use a 1.5” triclamp cap with 1/2” FNPT thread. I can weld the 1.5” ferrule low on the side for a minimum volume of about 3 liters. I also picked up a basic controller and small project box to put it in.

Column Attachment:
I’m not sure what I am going to do about the column attachment yet. I would like to stay simple and stick with the factory 2” ferrule on top. I’m considering adding a 4” ferrule on top so I can clean this easier. I know what a pain it is to clean out oils from a boiler that I can get my arm into, and am not sure how I would clean this w/o the larger opening. Maybe acid? I will likely go ahead and add the larger ferrule before I’m done. I’m still on the fence on this one.

The ferrule pictured is shorter than the one I will need if I go this route. I can pick up a taller 54mm ferrule that would put the lip even with the top rim of the keg.

Finishing Touches:
I plan to wrap the entire thing in insulation so I can get the most out of the 500 W element.

After this boiler is complete I hope to start work on a small copper head(s) for making gin, oil extraction, etc.

I’ll be posting more pics as I progress through the build.

Otis