Running a 50lt keg pot

[ultrasuede]

Hi all,

I have been playing around with small 25lt batches. I'm wondering if it's okay to run 5 litres of stripped 40% wash in my 50lt still?

[Minpac]

If you have an electric element, you'll need to put in enough liquid that it's still covered after the run is done.

5 litres at 40% means you'll be taking ~2.5L(~70-80% ABV in a pot still) in output, and only have 2.5L leftover. Try pouring liquid into your boiler and see how many litres it takes to cover the element, then double it just to be sure. That's how much you want to be left with post run.

If you're on gas or bain marie, go for it.

[ultrasuede]

I'm on gas. I'm worried that the large amount of headspace will mess with the cuts, ie, by the time there is enough pressure to push through the column, the leads, heads and beginning of the hearts may be mixing together.

[Zak Griffin]

I reckon you'll be fine mate :handgestures-thumbupleft:

[Kenster]

US, if you are concerned by the small volume, you can always add extra water. The amount of alcohol wont change and you will still recover it all as water can act as a kind of filter. So all you are doing is heating up a larger volume (extra cost & time) but wont affect the desired outcome.