StillSmart

I know the proper way would be to make the coil myself, but until I get at least one column completed I don't want to be risking wasting expensive copper pipe. So is there someone who makes condenser coils?

It's a confidence thing. Fill it with water. Freeze it, then bend. Sorted.

Mash may be a little harsh there, but has a point.
I may have to start calling him Oublio.
Unless you are strapped for cash,Copper pipe is not SO expensive, and failures can be converted at the local scrap yard for cash.
To me part of the Stilling is not just making alcohol, but making stuff, learning stuff that I didn't know, never thought that I would need to know, and having fun and getting a result.

Don't despair mate,I am sure that you can do it.

Robert.

@ Devon: A screw up or two, if indeed there was one, would probably still be way cheaper than having somebody fabricate one for you.

As MASH said, fill the tube with water and freeze, then bend around a dowel, broom handle or something. When complete, ice will melt and run out. All good.

Perhaps the most common waste of copper tubing is starting out with a piece that's a bit too short. You can always cut off the long bits.

Not harsh. Positive.
Believe it will be ok. It will.
You will be pleased with yourself once its complete.

Good point RJ don't cut it until you are sure.
Wear gloves too!

A lot depends on what you want to make and how tight you want to bend it.

I have made coils with 6 mm tube wound onto a 15 mm diameter mandrel - but the only way I could get that to work was by packing the coil with salt. That was for a double coil to go into a 54 mm shell. The outer coil was easier but I still filled it with salt.

Single coils can be bent with empty tube provided they are not too tight.

I don't do coils often these days and I suspect I would still use the salt packing. Getting it out just takes time. You just connect it up to a hose and eventually the salt softens and then gets flushed out - may take a few hours though.

Using automotive 1/4" tube is a bit easier still as it is slightly thinner wall.

This was a cold finger and double coil to go inside 54 mm tube made with 1/4" tube. Bit longer than usual but it was as requested.

First and second attempt didn't go so well, need to get my hands on another roll of tube

Take your time and don't try to rush it.
Salt or frozen water will see you triumph.
When you do,it will seem worth it.
And you will be a Happy Bunny.

Shit happens.

These are intended as words of support.

ATB
Robert.