How to run a packed column still

[Royalwulf]

I have been using a pot still for a while. I am now building a packed column still.
My boiler has 1000w or 2000w but i have a scr.

My question is a basic one, how do i run it?
I heat the boiler up using 2000w.
When do i start reflux ie water into rc?
When do I adjust the reflux?
When do I adjust wattage?

thanks

[The Stig]

We really need more j go , what kind of reflux still is it ? What size still is it ? What kind of packing is in there and how much ie how tall is the still ?
And finally , what boiler have you actually got , I don’t think I’ve ever seen one with 2 x 1000w elements

[Royalwulf]

Still building at the moment
25l boiler, yes it has 2 x 1000w which can be run at 1000w or both on at 2000w
2" stainless steel pipes, currently 24" long will extend at some stage
2" Dephlegmator above pipes
2" copper shotgun condensor
packing, copper mesh and/or stainless steel scrubbers

not lookiong for pros and cons of still at this stage, just simple how to run steps

[Royalwulf]

Any help would be appreciated.
Even a link to an article would be useful

[RuddyCrazy]

G'Day wulf
have a read of this thread

viewtopic.php?f=57&t=3117

it deals with just about every still design and it will go along way in learning for you :handgestures-thumbupleft:

[Royalwulf]

Thanks Ruddy,
I understand the differences in stills and the basics of running a reflux still.
I was hoping for a easy step by step for running it like there is at the top of the plated column section where there is an article on running a plated column the easy way

[MattSmith]

Personally I would treat it the same as running a plated still, only you can't see the plates. That's how I run mine (4" modular pot with a packed section and RC).

[Royalwulf]

Thanks Matt, that was what I was thinking, just need to know when it is time to put rc full on then down a bit for fores

[The Stig]

Rule of thumb with any still is turn the water on as soon as the still is turned on .
Doing this will give you time to fix any leaks or kinks before it’s too late