Why Is Copper Used For Moonshine?

– Copper is the preferred material in the construction of a still to impart flavor into the distilled spirits. According to Broadslab Distillery, both stainless steel and copper are excellent conductors of heat: dispersing the heat evenly across the entire surface of the metal and creating a more even distillation.

1. But where both stainless steel and copper will not put harmful chemicals into your final product, copper has the advantage over stainless in that whisky out of a copper still simply tastes better.
2. When distilling in copper, the copper reacts on a molecular level with the sulfurs put out by the fermenting yeast.

It “cancels-out” the sulfur taste which would otherwise be bitter and not as smooth. In the process of distilling, the sulfur coming from the yeast binds itself to the copper, making hydrogen-sulfide which in turn, forms copper sulfate. The copper sulfate sticks to the inside of the still after distillation is completed.

How does copper remove sulfites?

The image of the large copper whisky still is iconic. Whether it’s in Scotland making Scotch whisky, or in America making moonshine and whiskey with an “e,” the copper still signifies quality and taste. But why, exactly, do distillers stick with copper on both sides of the Atlantic? After all, stills can technically be made of anything — aluminum, iron, brass, stainless steel.

Many of those metals are actually cheaper than copper and last longer. Yet those materials can’t deliver one thing (arguably the most important thing): consistently good taste. “When distilling whiskey in copper, the copper reacts on a molecular level with the sulfurs put out by the fermenting yeast,” Broadslab Distillery writes on its website,

“It ‘cancels-out’ the sulfur taste which would otherwise be bitter and not as smooth.”

Does a moonshine still have to be copper?

Distilled Spirits (Whiskey, Vodka, Moonshine, Etc.) – Overall, copper is better for distilling spirits because the material removes sulfides from distillate, which produces a better tasting and smelling final product. Copper is definitely the better choice for products like Bourbon, Tennessee Whiskey, Irish Whiskey, Scotch, and traditional Rum, because of the sulfur reduction, as mentioned above.

1. These spirits are also most commonly distilled in pot stills (no reflux), which allows for lots of flavor to come through from the wash.
2. Copper stills are great for high proof spirits like vodka too.
3. Tito’s Vodka, for example, is distilled in a copper pot.
4. However, vodka is best distilled in vessels with a reflux column, as it can be done quicker that way.

This isn’t to say that stainless stills can’t be used to distill spirits. In fact, a stainless pot with a copper column, or a 100% stainless still packed with copper mesh, are both excellent options for producing spirits. Remember, it is illegal to distill alcohol without the proper permits.

How harmful is copper sulphate?

What are some signs and symptoms from a brief exposure to copper sulfate? – Copper sulfate can cause severe eye irritation. Eating large amounts of copper sulfate can lead to nausea, vomiting, and damage to body tissues, blood cells, the liver, and kidneys. With extreme exposures, shock and death can occur. Copper sulfate affects animals in a similar way.

What does copper do to wine?

Winemakers commonly add copper to wines before packaging to remove unpleasant ‘reductive’ aromas. However, residual copper in wine can have negative consequences including unsightly deposits, increased risk of oxidation and the formation of further reductive compounds.

Is copper better for distilling?

– Copper is the preferred material in the construction of a still to impart flavor into the distilled spirits. According to Broadslab Distillery, both stainless steel and copper are excellent conductors of heat: dispersing the heat evenly across the entire surface of the metal and creating a more even distillation.

1. But where both stainless steel and copper will not put harmful chemicals into your final product, copper has the advantage over stainless in that whisky out of a copper still simply tastes better.
2. When distilling in copper, the copper reacts on a molecular level with the sulfurs put out by the fermenting yeast.

It “cancels-out” the sulfur taste which would otherwise be bitter and not as smooth. In the process of distilling, the sulfur coming from the yeast binds itself to the copper, making hydrogen-sulfide which in turn, forms copper sulfate. The copper sulfate sticks to the inside of the still after distillation is completed.

Is gin basically vodka?

The differences between vodka and gin – While gin and vodka are both crafted as neutral spirits, gin has additional ingredients—namely juniper berries—to give it its signature pine flavour. In fact, gin can only be called a gin if it has juniper in it.

Is copper safe for distilling?

Copper in Distillation Copper is a highly versatile material that can be used in a wide range of sectors, from building infrastructure and generating renewable energy, to use in medical applications, air conditioning and plumbing. Copper has multiple benefits for each of its applications, such as transferring electricity, heat and water as well as being an instrumental resource for protecting the environment, as it improves the efficiency of energy transfer and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Copper is an excellent conductor of heat, which makes it the perfect material for distilling alcohols including whiskey and gin. Being such a good conductor means that the whole surface of the metal can heat up evenly. Using copper for stills has a profound impact on the final product’s flavour, helping distillers control the taste of the drink and reduce bitterness Conducting heat and Improving flavour are vital characteristics when It comes to distillation, making copper an ideal solution. It is also resistant to corrosion, providing increased longevity, and with antibacterial qualities copper also doesn’t leave or pass over any harmful chemicals into the finished product.

Unfortunately, this doesn’t exactly mean that copper distilled alcohol is healthy, but by using copper in the distilling process, those harmful chemicals certainly can be removed. Straight Length Copper Tube We have been working with Lawton Tubes for many years, purchasing Copper Tube for Distilling applications in varying sizes.

The service, delivery and product provided has always been of a high calibre, and has only strengthened during recent changes in political and social environment. A Major UK Still Fabricator Here at Lawton Tubes, we have had the opportunity to work with some of the country’s largest gin and whiskey distillers on the market, as well as smaller independent distillers.

1. We’ve provided them with the copper tubing they need to keep their day-to-day production going smoothly and our reputation within this market continues to grow.
2. Through fantastic customer service and a superior product, we have formed long-lasting and trusted associations.
3. Our customers always know what to expect from us.

Our copper still gives our product the unique qualities that our customers love. Lawton Tubes have been a big part of our project here, providing the materials along with their knowledge and expertise. They have also gone the extra mile to support us with shipping arrangements and excellent customer service from all those involved.

• An independent South Coast gin distillery We offer a large range of products that aid the distilling process, particularly elements within the shell and tube condensers.
• These are designed to be compact, easy to clean and maintainable.
• Our extensive capability enables us to provide bespoke sizes and varied Straight Length Tubes to our customers’ specific designs.

Our capabilities in Straight Length Tubes range from OD: 3mm-264mm with gauges ranging 0.3mm -13mm, ensuring you can get the right size to fit your current system. With a vast range of alloy grades to choose from:

CW024A (C106) – Cu-DHP, Deoxidized High Phosphorus CW004A (C101) – Cu-ETP, Electric Tough Pitch CW008A (C103) – Cu-OF, Oxygen Free CW352H (CN102) – CuNi10Mn1Fe (Copper Nickel) CW354H (CN107) – CuNi30Mn1Fe (Copper Nickel) CW702R (CZ110) – CuZn20Al12As (Aluminium Brass)

In addition to Straight Length Tubes, we are also able to supply tube in Level Wound Coils. Supplied in a range of sizes, both in plain and inner grooved to suit application. With customer service always at the forefront of our mind, we ensure our turnaround from quotation through to manufacturer and delivery is fast, remember we are locally based in the UK.

With extensive facilities in Coventry and Dorset, we offer products made to British, European and American standards with the ability to draw, cut, deburr, eddy current test, clean, inkjet, engrave tube and perform inspection processes in line with ISO 9001 and 14001 specifications.Our facilities, along with our team of 100+ employees, give us the capabilities to offer a large range of straight length copper pipes up to 8m, as well as fittings and brazing solutions to 30 metre length coiled copper tube. We are the UK’s leading copper specialist with global reach, exporting to 35 countries worldwide and continuing to explore opportunities in new markets across the globe, evolving and diversifying our product portfolio whilst always providing exceptional levels of service to our clients.

In 2019, we achieved the highest possible accolade of The Queen’s Award for Enterprise – International Trade. Our turnover also reached £150 million, solidifying our position as a major player in the UK copper market. : Copper in Distillation

Is brass OK for moonshine?

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The use of brass is always a controversial topic, yet no matter how frequently it comes up people still ignore the very negative side effects related to using it in a still. This is something that is brought up so frequently yet no definitive answer, which I personally think is very important since were talking about something that can poison, cause cancer and cause long term health issues.

• Against use of brass. The risks are not worth the savings, and there is always a safe replacement for brass.
• People who are for the use of brass or believe the negative side effects are to minor to worry about.
• People who have no idea but read something somewhere. Generally they see popular still designs using brass and assume it is safe.

Personally I am against using any brass in a still or boiler besides for irrigation fittings used for cooling or for decorative and cosmetic needs. Copper or stainless steel parts are not much more expensive and remove all worries about the lead levels you would be exposed to. My main reasons for being against brass use are:

• There is always a safe option available.
• The only reason to use brass is because it is slightly cheaper then other options, or slightly more available.
• There is no way to know how safe (or unsafe) brass fittings you are using are, regardless of steps (pickling) you take to try to make them safe.
• Most brass fittings are not even safe for water use, which makes them even less safe for distilling use.
• It is irresponsible and a dick move to share spirits with friends or family without telling them about the chances of drinking leaded spirits.

To start here is the information from the EPA on “lead free”, and use of brass, and what is covered.1417(d), “lead free” means that solders and flux may not contain more than 0.2% lead. pipes, pipe fittings, and well pumps may not contain more than 8.0% lead.

So from the start we can all agree that lead free isn’t lead free. Its like “unlimited calls” or unlimited bandwidth”. Lead free still contains lead period. Only items used in water consumption and more specifically end points are required to have less then 8% lead. Non-end point components can have more.

This is important to know later on. Here are some important details from the link above that the EPA discuss and I want to address

1. What are the sources of lead in drinking water?

The amount of lead attributable to corrosion by-products in the water depends on a number of factors, including the amount and age of lead bearing materials susceptible to corrosion, the way they were manufactured, how long the water is in contact with the lead containing surfaces, and how corrosive the water is toward these materials. The corrosivity of water is influenced by a number of factors, including acidity, alkalinity, dissolved solids and hardness. In general, soft acidic waters are more corrosive to lead than hard waters.

2. Can plumbing fixtures or devices containing 8.0 percent or less lead contribute lead to drinking water?

Yes, any plumbing device or fixture, domestically produced or imported, that contains any amount of lead and is in contact with the water is a potential source of contamination. Brass fittings and plumbing fixtures, containing 8.0 percent or less lead, have been found to contribute high lead levels for a considerable period of time after their installation, even in cases where these devices are in contact with relatively non-corrosive waters.

3. Is there an NSF performance standard limiting the leaching of lead into drinking water?

NSF Standard 61, section 9 covers “endpoint devices.” The NSF Standard defines endpoint devices as mechanical plumbing devices, components, and materials which are typically installed within the last liter of the distribution system and are intended by the manufacturer to dispense water for human ingestion. The devices include kitchen and bar faucets, lavatory faucets, water dispensers, drinking fountains, water coolers, glass fillers, residential refrigerator ice makers, supply stops and endpoint control valves. These devices are regulated under section 1417(e) of the SDWA. For details, refer to Part IV of this document. Products that are NOT COVERED under NSF Standard 61, Section 9 include in-line devices, point of use and point of entry water treatment devices, bath and shower valves, drains, backflow preventers, utility, laundry, bidet, self closing or electronic faucets, faucets with hose thread spout, and non lavatory hand wash stations.

So now from the information above we know that:
• Lead free is not free of lead. In fact it can be up to 8% lead.
• Only end point brass used for water consumption needs to meet standards and do not need to meet these standards.
• Brass not used in end points can have more then 8% lead.
• Many of the components distillers may use that are brass are not end point fittings, so they are leaded brass.
• They only test water on specific conditions and temperatures for lead leeching.
• Acceptable temperature range for specifically designed hot water usage is only 180 degrees.
• High temperatures, and high acidic fluids leech more lead.
• Even “lead free” brass has been found to contribute high lead levels for a considerable period of time after installation.

Now you might be saying well all brass items that have high lead in them will be listed as such or have a warning right? Well not really. Here is a perfect example from the Home depot website, which does list some info, but you will not see this in the store.3/4 in.

x 3/4 in. Brass NPT Compression Fitting You might recognize this as something similar used in the potstill design in the side bar. In the product listing you’ll see “California residents: see Proposition 65 information ” listed in the overview. Prop 65 wants this item to be listed (only in California) “California’s Proposition 65 entitles California consumers to special warnings for certain products that contain chemicals above certain threshold levels.” The general Proposition 65 notice is as follows: “WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.” You know those brass valves you use in your Boka? Here is a listing from the EPA about valves: Are valves dispensing water from point of use treatment devices covered under the “lead free” definition of the SDWA? Point of use a water treatment devices are not covered under NSF Standard 61, Section 9.

Therefore only the 8.0 percent lead free criterion is applicable to them. Point of use treatment devices are tested and certified under NSF Standard 58. Thus, while EPA encourages the industry to conform with this standard, the industry is not currently required to do so.

In fact doing a google site search for homedepot.com and brass fittings California residents lists 65,800 listings. Additional information: Study of lead leeching of “lead free” and leaded brass Initially, the leaded-brass components leached about 8.5 times as much lead as the ‘‘no-lead” parts, and by Day 19, the leaded-brass were on average discharging about 14 times more lead.

It is likely that ultimately, as initially-available surface lead is dissolved, that the discharge may reach the 50 to 70 fold ratio New school built found their brass to contain up to 18%-20% lead, and 30 times the federal standards, and they specifically went into the construction with wanting to keep lead levels minimal.

One of the excuse I see all the time is that lead is not solvable or make it to your final product as long as it is not in your distillate path. But lead can have a major impact on your yeast, in both cell growth upwards of 50% decreases, as well as off flavoring. And if you use dunder or backset distillers can very easily transfer lead from their boiler to their next fermentation.

Additionally lead can have negative affects on yeast in both their cell growth (upwards of 50%) and cause yeas to generate off flavors. If you use backset or dunder you will pass lead from boiler to fermenter frequently. Summary:

• “Lead free” it not lead free.
• “Lead free” only applies to drinking end points, and the bulk of the brass distillers use in their stills are not end point fittings.
• Even “lead free” fittings produce quite a bit of lead, and leaded brass can produce 50X to 70X more lead.
• All this information relates to highly controlled and monitored water and low temperatures. We distillers use the equipment for highly acidic, hot, volatile alcohols and washes, which have an even greater affect on lead.
• Nearly every bass fitting has a safe to use counterpart for a few dollars extra.

All brass has lead. The amount of lead in specific fittings for a specific purpose (water consumption) have “acceptable” levels of lead after a period of time (weeks, months), but still require you to flush the water that has been in contact with the brass (which is why you’re supposed to run your faucet for a few seconds prior to drinking).

But not all brass fittings are considered safe as seen with California wanting warning labels on these items. And since there is no way to regulate, test or know for sure how much lead is used there are many cases of lead levels being insanely high. I say this all the time; you don’t see brass used in professional distilleries and as hobbyists following the best practices of professionals is something we should all strive for.

Making safe spirits should be everyone’s goals, and to save a few dollars to use brass is not an acceptable choice especially if you are not the only person drinking your spirits.

Why is it better to drink from copper?

The Health Benefits of Copper Water Bottles – Put simply, storing water in a copper vessel creates a natural purification process. It can kill all of the microorganisms, algae, fungi, bacteria, and molds in water that can be harmful to the body, making it perfectly fit for drinking.

Does copper rust in alcohol?

As mentioned Page 2 Recycled Paper 2 Please Recycle above, ethanol is not compatible with soft metals such as zinc, brass, copper, lead, and aluminum. These metals will degrade or corrode in contact with ethanol and possibly contaminate a vehicle’s fuel system.

Do I need copper in my still?

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 copper to use for a still?

This guide will teach you how to build a 6 Gallon Kentucky style copper pot still. This size is perfect for anyone interested in home distilling and can be constructed by anyone with a general knowledge of soldering. If your tired of making the same old boring neutral spirits with your reflux still and are looking to make a tasty traditional rum or whiskey moonshine this still design is for you.

1. This still plan is more difficult then most other plans.
2. If you’re not up to building it check out these 5 Gallon Copper Stills on Amazon,
3. Can’t beat the price and their well built.
4. When I built mine it took me 30 hours and $200 in materials.
5. The sheet of copper wasn’t cheap but I really enjoyed building my own Pot still.

To get started let’s look at what we’re going to build. Below is a picture of the Pot still we’re going to build. This still was designed by Sherman Owen so a special thanks to him for posting his design and making the video’s I’ve shared. You will need the following Materials and Tools:

• Half Sheet of Copper – 3 ft by 4 ft ( use 18 gauge copper) Amazon has some reasonable priced copper sheets
• Roll of Solder – Try to get hold of a roll of 95/5 tin/silver is the best and stay away from anything with cadmium/antimony or lead in it.
• Rivets – stainless steel or copper
• 1/4 ” copper tubing – 8 ft should do
• 1/2 ” copper pipe – 3 ft
• 1/2 ” Brass connector (female and male ends )

Tools Required

• Solder Gun (blow torch) with Mapp Gas
• Rivet Gun
• Tin Snips
• File ( for smoothing out edges and burrs )
• Hammer
• Scissors
• Tape
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Compass
• Pliers

Why was copper used for weapons?

As mentioned, copper holds a sharp edge better than stone. Because of this, copper weapons lasted longer and proved to be more lethal. Ancient societies in the Chalcolithic Age equipped their warriors with copper weapons for defense and for aggressive wars.

Is copper safe for still?

Why Copper is Used in Stills › › Why Copper is Used in Stills If you consider purchasing or be mindful of the materials it is or it will be built out of. Safety is still the top priority, the still should make you an alcohol that is free of toxic contaminants and substances.

Then, your still should be able to withstand changes in temperature and perform it’s expected distilling duties with safety. Stainless steel and copper are the most commonly used materials in distilling spirits although the latter is sworn to be the best choice by most hobby and commercial distillers.

Copper has been used to construct stills since the moonshining tradition started in the Appalachian hills and this has thrived up to the modern age of producing alcohol. There are a good number of reasons why copper is preferably used to construct stills:

Copper has been known to have excellent anti-corrosive properties which can defy and hold out harsh and changing weather conditions especially when distilling outdoors.

This metal is resilient but exceptionally ductile and malleable making it easy to be shaped and suitable in and customized still designs.

Unlike stainless steel that is relatively a poor conductor, copper is a much effective material in heat transfer. It evenly distributes heat and efficiently cools down the vapor.

Several scientific researches have been recorded to prove the antimicrobial ability of copper. Certain studies have consistently attested to such antimicrobial effects of copper compared to stainless steel.

Copper absorbs sulfur compounds and yeast cells produced during fermentation and prevents the production of ethyl carbonate, a toxic chemical formed from cyanides. These stuffs are totally undesirable in the distilled alcohol.

Although the fermented mash is not microbiologically perfect, copper will help improve the quality and aroma of the final distillate.

It could be said that copper stills are the most ideal equipment in, They’re safe, effective and classic beauties, no wonder why a lot of distillers drool over copper stills. Reference: distillique.co.za Posted by Jason Stone on July 04, 2012