Panchenkov nozzle: what is it, when, how and where to use it
Those who are fond of making homemade alcohol are probably familiar with a special nozzle for screening out impurities. The original device was invented by Soviet physicist Panchenkov in the 50s. of the last century. It is interesting that initially the device had a completely different purpose and was used exclusively for fuel stratification.
Subsequently, the invention of a talented scientist interested home cooks and began to be used in moonshine making for rectification (purification) of alcohol.
What it is and how the Panchenkov nozzle works
The device looks like a tightly woven fabric made of metal fibers - steel or copper. To purify the alcohol, it is placed in the still of the moonshine still, having previously been rolled into a tight roll.
When entering the tube, alcohol vapors come into contact with the nozzle and transfer some heat to it. As a result, volatile impurities with a high boiling point accumulate on the walls and drain off, while the purified ones move on.
Home cooks often adapt an ordinary stainless steel kitchen sponge for these purposes, combining several such products if necessary and easily adjusting them to specific needs. As for the Panchenkov nozzle, its parameters are unchanged: the device is made in a factory with molding according to a certain pattern.
The nozzle has a fairly dense weave and should be selected for a specific unit, since there is no adjustment of the characteristics.
When, where and how to use the Panchenkov nozzle
Copper and steel nozzles perform the same function - they purify alcohol vapors and increase the strength of the final product.
They are used for different types of raw materials:
For the distillation of fruit or grain brews, the copper version is better suited, as it not only cleans the vapors, but also neutralizes sulfur compounds, accumulating them on itself.
Cheaper stainless steel devices are suitable for sugar brews, since sulfurous derivatives are not formed in such a product.
It should be borne in mind that for the effective operation of the device, the mandatory presence of a deflemmator is required, which should be located higher and provide irrigation of the nozzle. Otherwise, the use of the device loses its meaning.
Advantages and disadvantages of the Panchenkov nozzle
When used correctly, the Panchenkov's nozzle has more "pros" than "cons". The main advantages:
High degree of purification of the drink from impurities.
Strengthening the strength of the product.
Affordable price and ease of use.
As for the disadvantages, then there is only one - reducing the speed of distillation.
The feasibility of using the Panchenkov nozzle depends on the experience of the moonshiner and the required level of purification. Many professionals successfully use home-made stainless steel appliances, others prefer the factory version, some combine both methods.
Installation methods and care of the nozzle
Install the nozzle in one of two ways:
Fold it in half, roll it up and screw it into the tzarga.
Twist the device without bending it in half, which increases its density.
Do not get too carried away with increasing the density, as too tight rolls can lead to adverse consequences - to clogging of the column and explosion of the distillation cube.
After use, remove the device from the device with tweezers and clean it. To do this, the nozzle is placed in a citric acid solution, boiled for 15-20 minutes and rinsed with clean water. After such manipulations, the product is ready for further use.
Update: 13.12.2018
Category: Vodka an Moonshine