No, stills do not need to be copper. In fact, it isn’t necessarily the best material for a still. In the past, stills were commonly made from copper because it is a malleable metal that is easy to work with and it is also resistant to corrosion.
Also, the presence of the copper can help to eliminate sulfur compounds from the distilled liquid.
However, in recent years, many different types of materials are being used to construct stills. Stainless steel, aluminium, lead-free brass, and even synthetic composites have become some of the more popular choices for still material.
Each material has its own particular advantages and sometimes disadvantages. For example, stainless steel is much stronger and more resistant to corrosion than copper, but it can have a reaction with some alcohol compounds, changing the taste of the final product.
Every distiller will have their own preferences for the type of still material they choose, but ultimately the choice of material largely comes down to personal preference, the intended end product, and the size and shape of the still.
Are all stills copper?
No, not all stills are copper. Stills can be made from a variety of materials including stainless steel, aluminum, clay, and even wood. Copper is a popular choice for stills because it is an excellent conductor of heat and offers a degree of corrosion protection.
Copper allows for more control over the distillation process and is believed to give the distilled beverage a smoother taste. Additionally, copper stills are often thought of as more aesthetically pleasing.
Can a still be made from stainless steel?
Yes, a still can be made from stainless steel. Stainless steel is a versatile material that is highly resistant to corrosion and can withstand extreme temperatures. It is also non-reactive, which makes it a great choice for making a still.
Stainless steel is used for a variety of still designs, such as pot stills, column stills, and reflux stills. It is important to keep in mind that stainless steel doesn’t conduct heat well, so you may need to add an insulation layer between the still and the heat source.
To ensure a safe and effective design, it is important to consult with a professional about the specific material requirements for your intended still.
Is brass OK in a still?
Yes, brass is typically okay to use in a still. It is a low-carbon alloy commonly made from copper and zinc, and it is a safe material for use when distilling spirits. Brass is a naturally non-toxic material and has the unique ability to resist corrosion, so it can stand up to many of the caustic substances and higher temperatures that a still may encounter.
Additionally, since brass is soft and malleable, it is easy to shape and solder. Brass also generally has a low cost compared to other metals, which makes it a popular choice for stills. Before using brass in a still, however, it is important to make sure that it is properly cleaned and sanitized, as it may contain contaminants that can impart off flavors to the distillate.
Can I use aluminum for a still?
Yes, you can use aluminum for a still. While copper is commonly used as the main material in stills, aluminum can also be a good option. As it is a softer, lighter metal, it is easy to shape into the required shapes, but it is still capable of withstanding high temperatures and pressure.
As aluminum stills are less expensive than copper ones, they are the preferred choice for many who are on a budget. However, because aluminum is softer than copper, it can’t be welded and may need to be soldered or brazed instead.
It is also important to note that aluminum is more prone to corrosion, and you need to ensure that your still is well maintained and kept clean to avoid any potential issues.
What is the heat source for a still?
The heat source for a still is typically fuel such as wood, coal, or propane that is used to heat up a large copper container and boil the liquid it contains. By careful positioning and insulation of the still, the liquid will boil at a consistent temperature, usually between 75-80 C, which is an ideal temperature for distilling.
This process causes the alcohol to steam and condense back into a liquid, which will result in a higher concentration of alcohol in the liquid when it is collected from the still. While this is the traditional heat source for a still, nowadays, electric heating elements are also available which provide a more consistent temperature, reduce fuel costs, and are safer to use.
Does alcohol react with brass?
Yes, alcohol does react with brass. The chemical composition of brass is primarily copper and zinc, which can react with alcohol from the air and cause it to corrode over time. Alcohol can also react with the lacquers and coatings used to protect brass from oxidation and tarnishing, causing it to wear away more quickly.
Exposure to alcohol can also cause the brass to corrode and appear dull or discolored. In order to prevent this kind of damage, it is best to keep brass items away from alcohol and regularly clean and polish the surface to restore its original luster.
Is brass safe for brewing?
Yes, brass is safe for brewing. Brass is a metal alloy made of copper and zinc, which is often used in the manufacture of fittings, valves, and other plumbing components. While brass can contain small amounts of trace elements such as lead, these amounts are so small that they are not considered to be a health hazard.
From a brewing standpoint, brass can add a subtle flavor which can contribute to the overall flavor of a beverage. It can also impart a light golden hue in some cases. This can be a desirable effect in certain styles of beer.
Additionally, brass is a durable material that is resistant to corrosion and can withstand high temperatures and high pressure. For these reasons, brass is often used in home beer brewing systems. Overall, brass is safe for brewing and can even enhance the flavor and aesthetic of many beers.
Can you drink alcohol from brass?
No, you should not drink alcohol from brass. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, which when exposed to acidic or alcoholic liquids can cause the release of minute amounts of metals into the liquid, which is potentially hazardous to human health.
Brass can react with many substances and can even cause a reaction with the alcohol itself causing it to take on a metallic taste. Ingesting this type of liquid could cause irritation to the digestive system and could also be a danger to your health.
Furthermore, brass objects can also become discolored or tarnished, which could give your drink a unpleasant appearance and taste. Therefore, it is best to avoid consuming any type of alcoholic beverage from brass containers.
Is smoking out of brass safe?
No, smoking out of brass is not a safe practice. Although brass is a naturally occurring material, the alloys in brass utensils, pipes, and other items used for smoking may contain traces of lead, which is not safe for inhalation.
Additionally, brass is highly corrosive and can break down over time, releasing dangerous toxins into the air. Due to these risks, it is important to only use items specifically designed for smoking that are made out of stainless steel, glass, or food-grade silicone.
Can you use stainless steel to make a still?
Yes, stainless steel can be used to make a still. Stills are typically made out of copper, but stainless steel is also a viable option. Stainless steel is more easily accessible and cheaper than copper, so it is becoming a more popular choice for stills.
Stainless steel is also more resistant to corrosion, so it can last longer. It is important to choose a high quality stainless steel that does not contain any lead or mercury, as this could contaminate your distillate.
The main disadvantage of stainless steel is that it does not impart the same flavor as copper stills, but this is not a deal-breaker for many. Ultimately, the choice to use either copper or stainless steel for your still remains up to you.
How do you make moonshine still out of stainless steel?
Making a moonshine still out of stainless steel is a popular option among distillers due to its durability and potential to produce high-quality spirits. Here’s how to build one:
1. Design: Begin by designing the still. You will need to determine the size, shape, and components that will make up your still. Consider the amount of moonshine you want to produce and the kind of shape that will create the best distillation process.
2. Acquire Materials: Once the design has been finalized, acquire the needed materials such as stainless steel, copper, PVC tubing, bolts, screws and the like. Make sure the materials are of high quality and that they are certified food-safe.
3. Assemble: Now, start assembling the still. Construct the main body by cutting the stainless steel and welding the pieces together. Then attach the copper tubing to the body that will form the condenser and the column.
4. Connectivity: Next, connect the chamber, condenser, and column with tubing and bolts. At this point, you will need to add an outlet for the moonshine to be collected.
5. Insulate and Secure: Finally, insulate and secure the body of the still. Make sure the connections are waterproof and heatproof. Make sure all of the components are secured tightly to avoid leakage.
Once all of the steps are completed, your stainless steel moonshine still is ready to be used. Use caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety recommendations when operating the still.
What proof comes out of a still?
The proof that comes out of a still is the measure of the alcoholic content of the distillate. This is generally measured in “proof units” that divide the distillate’s percentage of alcohol by volume.
For example, a distillate with 40% ABV (alcohol by volume) contains 80 proof. Different countries use different proof systems to measure the alcohol content of spirits; for example, the UK and Canadian systems use 100 proof for 40% ABV, while the USA uses 200 proof for the same strength.
The higher the proof of the distillate, the more concentrated the alcohol content is.
Why are Whisky stills made of copper?
Whisky stills are typically made of copper because of the superior conductivity, durability and reaction properties the metal has. As the stills are the key elements in the whisky-making process, the quality of copper ensures that none of these essential elements become compromised throughout the process.
Copper provides an efficient, uniform temperature during distillation which helps to improve control of the process, as well as producing a better-tasting whisky. Additionally, copper is known for its antibacterial properties, making it a great choice for distillation where bacteria can quickly infect the whisky and ruin it.
The metal also reacts with some sulphur containing compounds, capturing them and eliminating any unwanted flavours in the drink. In conclusion, copper whisky stills are essential for producing the best quality whisky, with its superior qualities being unrivalled.
