First still build (modular pot)

[JustChilln]

I have an Alcoengine reflux on a Digiboil boiler and had added a 250mm stainless extension, packed with copper mesh
I wanted to run a pot still style still for stripping runs, before collecting the resulting spirit and diluting to low wines, before putting it all through the reflux still.
I also wanted to have the options later to run grains to make whisky or molasses etc to make rum
Like most of us I don't have unlimited funds, so decided to use what I had and add components to make the pot head
I used the copper packed extension as a base the added the 2 90degree elbows. I then connected a 2" to 1 1/2" reducer connected then to a 1 1/2" shotgun condenser and end cap outlet

My first run was a sac run at the end of a spirit run through the reflux, using the balance of the wash. Abv to start was 39% and ran it down to 20%.
Spirit coming out was a constant dribble, I'd call it not slow not fast so not sure how it will go as yet on my first run with WBW
Which should be in a week or so. Not sure how fast or slow it ahould be, maybe .eaving the extension packed slows it down?
Any and all comments and suggestions most welcome

Sorry about sideways pics!! New to this game lol!!

[The Stig]

Pic didn’t take

[JustChilln]

Hope this works!,
Tried to upload video to dhow flow but wouldnt accept mp4

[RuddyCrazy]

Hi Chillin as that looks to be all SS make sure you have some copper in the vapour path, all I did with my pot still was throw a length of 1/2" pipe up the spout

[JustChilln]

Hi ruddy
Yes the ss straight section out of the lid is packed with 2 rolls of copper mesh
I leave it in for both pot and reflux
Cheers

[Clandestine]

I have an Alcoengine reflux on a Digiboil boiler and had added a 250mm stainless extension, packed with copper mesh
I wanted to run a pot still style still for stripping runs, before collecting the resulting spirit and diluting to low wines, before putting it all through the reflux still.
I also wanted to have the options later to run grains to make whisky or molasses etc to make rum
Like most of us I don't have unlimited funds, so decided to use what I had and add components to make the pot head
I used the copper packed extension as a base the added the 2 90degree elbows. I then connected a 2" to 1 1/2" reducer connected then to a 1 1/2" shotgun condenser and end cap outlet

My first run was a sac run at the end of a spirit run through the reflux, using the balance of the wash. Abv to start was 39% and ran it down to 20%.
Spirit coming out was a constant dribble, I'd call it not slow not fast so not sure how it will go as yet on my first run with WBW
Which should be in a week or so. Not sure how fast or slow it ahould be, maybe .eaving the extension packed slows it down?
Any and all comments and suggestions most welcome

Sorry about sideways pics!! New to this game lol!!

I like the design of you still. Where is the best/cheap place to get parts from? I'm in Melbourne.

[The Stig]

Check the 5 Star Store
http://www.5stardistilling.com.au
We have a basic 2” pot ready to go: https://5stardistilling.com/product/2-pot-still/

[JustChilln]

Hi. Clandestine
I bought most parts from www.5stardistilling.com.au and some from Kegland in
Melbourne
I’d prefer to buy all parts in oz but couldn’t find some so bought online
Cheers

[WoodyD40]

I like the design of you still. Where is the best/cheap place to get parts from? I'm in Melbourne.

personally - i bought all my original stuff at Keg Land.
All my new stuff is from 5 star ....
It all arrived this afternoon - so after the weekend i'll be putting up the assembly posts - so stay tuned.

Damm, i cant wait to assemble it. But i do need to work occasionally - otherwise i cant afford to enjoy life.

[howard]

I have an Alcoengine reflux on a Digiboil boiler and had added a 250mm stainless extension, packed with copper mesh
I wanted to run a pot still style still for stripping runs, before collecting the resulting spirit and diluting to low wines, before putting it all through the reflux still.
I also wanted to have the options later to run grains to make whisky or molasses etc to make rum
Like most of us I don't have unlimited funds, so decided to use what I had and add components to make the pot head
I used the copper packed extension as a base the added the 2 90degree elbows. I then connected a 2" to 1 1/2" reducer connected then to a 1 1/2" shotgun condenser and end cap outlet

My first run was a sac run at the end of a spirit run through the reflux, using the balance of the wash. Abv to start was 39% and ran it down to 20%.
Spirit coming out was a constant dribble, I'd call it not slow not fast so not sure how it will go as yet on my first run with WBW
Which should be in a week or so. Not sure how fast or slow it ahould be, maybe .eaving the extension packed slows it down?
Any and all comments and suggestions most welcome

Sorry about sideways pics!! New to this game lol!!

i never have to dilute my low wines, i just strip until the whole collection is 40%ABV.
so the start of the strip is about 60-65% and i strip down to about 15% on my rig.

insulation for reflux column.
clark rubber sell 'pipe insulation' with an I/D of 51mm & a 13mm wall.
i believe there are other options.