Step 2: Wrap the Thermometer with Teflon Tape – Originally, we were just going to wrap the thermometer with Teflon tape to create an airtight seal but decided we wanted to secure this thing in place even more with some hot glue (rated for high temps). You could probably get away with just using hot glue at the end of the day and ditching the Teflon.
Does alcohol ruin stainless steel?
A simple solution of water and 70% isopropyl alcohol is an effective stainless cleaner, with the added advantage of disinfecting the surface. Rubbing alcohol is the key to shiny stainless steel because it evaporates quickly without leaving a residue.
Why do moonshiners use copper?
Is a copper still necessary? A question that is often asked is whether or not it is necessary to have a copper still for producing the best quality whiskey. Purists argue that there is no other proper way to do it and they point to the fact that is has always been done that way.
- Stainless steel advocates argue that it has been always done that way, because stainless steel was only ‘discovered’ about a hundred years ago, and in some industries, old habits die slowly.
- In defense of using stainless, they argue that stainless steel is more durable, easier to work with and less costly than copper.
There is a good reason to use copper for distilling. Copper catalyzes (allows to occur) certain reactions that remove undesirable notes/flavors in the distillate and make it ‘smoother’. Without copper, the distillate will smell and taste sharp and unpleasant. 
An easy and inexpensive way to include copper is by the insertion of 100% copper scrub brushes. It is important to use 100% copper scrubs and two brands that make them are Chore Boy and Libman. Of the ones we tested, Chore Boy are generally less expensive but they are also about 30% lighter than Libmans.
For placement, several scrub brushes can be put in the (pot still in this application), and they can also be placed inside the, The 1.5″ to 2″ reducer makes a great place to put several as the constriction will naturally hold them. As the distillate passes out of the it has to go through the copper brushes, allowing for maximum interaction (and even a bit of reflux for higher proof).
For the stripping run (the first time beer is distilled) it is recommended to place the copper in the still itself, not in the, as ‘burping’ (proteins etc. foaming up into the condensor) can occur if heating is too rapid leading to fouling or plugging of the Condensing Assembly.
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: Is a copper still necessary?
What gauge copper is best for moonshine still?
3. What gauge copper do we use? – We use 20 oz./22-gauge, 32 oz./18-gauge and 48 oz./16-gauge. All of our stills come standard with 20 oz./22-gauge.20 oz./22-gauge is perfect for hobby stills when paired with our reinforced design, and meticulously built by our experienced craftsmen.
- In turn, our products are more affordable for you, while maintaining a strength punching above its weight class.
- We do offer 32 oz./18-gauge for those folks who want to make sure that they can drop their still out of an airplane, and still use it later.
- Those with such a need should use our “Customize Your Own Still” section or the drop downs for any of our distillers kits.
At the end of the day, the thickness of material used to make your still is a balancing act between durability and expense. No matter your choice, you can rest assured the quality will be the same that is expected of us here at North Georgia Still Company.