smartstill top keeps lifting up

[dids]

Ive done a batch of vodka over xmas and i started double sistilling it this mornin any way half way though distilling the top keeps lifting up and it makes a funny noise its as so its over boiling or somthing ive used the still quite a lot of times ive not changed the way i make it at all can any one help

[Jimmy]

Hi Dids,

This is commonly known as overboiling - there can be a couple of reasons for it. If the wash isn't completely clear it can do this, it can also happen because the inside of the still is very smooth and there are no places for bubbles to form easily, so they reach a critical mass and then form all at once.

A couple of options are available - firstly, you should use some kind of material in the still to break up the boil - either ceramic rings/saddles, a few pieces of glass (careful!), etc.

Secondly, you can use distillers conditioner to help - I have also heard that a small amount of butter will do the same thing but not tried this myself.

Good luck!

[Jimmy]

Oh, and it will also do this if the pipe gets blocked - try blowing down it (when cool!) to make sure it's not bunged up somehow.

[dids]

thanks for your quick reply. well its a double distill so the wash is clear ive run out of conditioner ive got another batch to put through once this ones done ill do what you surgested ill blow down the pipe an a think ill try a blob of butter thanks again for your quick reply

[Jimmy]

If you do try the butter, let us know if it works - apparently it's an old distillers trick but never tried it so all experiences are welcome!

[dids]

A tried the butter an it worked a treat. thanks again