Boka still

[doctorx]

So I have been running the 5 star boka recently. At the top of the still there is an end cap with a hole in it.

I understand the reason for this which is to prevent buildup of pressure.

In theory though, could I not replace the holed end cap with a solid end cap and run my boiler at low power and high water flow?

I understand this is risky.

Is it something you can do and manage the risk?

[bluc]

Dont block the vent hole :naughty:
What are you trying to achieve by blocking the hole?

[RC Al]

:text-+1: with bluc. Please don't try this :handgestures-thumbdown:

The reflux condenser cant work if there is no vapour flow past it. The top vent is 100% needed, some times I wonder if they shouldn't be bigger to slow the flow down through the condenser.

[doctorx]

Glad I asked the question. I clearly need to refresh my understanding of chemistry.

I was thinking that by creating a closed system and running the still at a very low power input I could increase the efficiency and create better equilibrium within the still.

[doctorx]

Guess there’s a good reason the safety topic is in the newbies section lol

[bluc]

The problem is the valve. If valve is closed and you dont have a vent hole and for some reason the rc fails(small pipe blokage from slime in cooling water real possibility) then there is a real possibility of explosion. Fire is one thing explosion is a whole nuther kettle of fish.

Dont risk it dont block the hole.

As long as there is no steam out vent hole you are at max effeciency as far as the rc goes...

[bluc]

Insulate the packed section if you want better stability...

[doctorx]

Thanks for the advice everyone