Fractional distillation: step by step how to do it right

The main task of fractional distillation is to separate high-quality alcohol from various harmful substances. This should be done as efficiently as possible, with minimal loss of useful product.

Fractional distillation can be performed with brag or with raw alcohol, which is presented in the form of moonshine obtained after the first distillation. The resulting product will have no foreign flavors and odors.

How fractional distillation is carried out on a moonshine still

This process has two main steps. The first distillation is performed at maximum speed. When your brew is ripe, you can start distilling.

Features of the first distillation:

1. About 75% of the total volume of brag is poured into the distillation cube.

2. The maximum possible heating power is turned on.

3. The product is collected "dry". After a noticeable drop in the speed of selection, you need to stop distilling the brag.

The first distillation makes it possible to obtain raw alcohol. Next, it must be divided into fractions.

Features of the second distillation:

1. The previously obtained moonshine is diluted with water. The mixture should have a strength of approximately 15-20%. This will significantly improve the selection process.

2. You need to turn on the heating to the highest possible power.

3. After heating the liquid to a temperature of about 78 degrees, the first drops of distillate will appear. The power will need to be reduced so that the extraction rate is approximately two drops per second.

Comments on the stages

It is worth noting that at the initial stage of fractional distillation, you need to take about 50 ml of liquid from each kilogram of sugar.

This fraction is very harmful, it is called the "head". The liquid is not allowed to drink, it contains a large amount of acetone.

At the second stage, a new receiving container must be used. The "body" is collected until the strength of the drink drops to 40 degrees. The liquid should be checked periodically with an areometer.

When collecting "tails", you also need to change the receiving container. A liquid with a low alcohol content is called "undercut". It can be used in further distillation. "Tails" are added to the brew to increase its strength.

Do not forget that you can drink only the "body". The "head" and "tails" are used for other purposes - lighting the grill, cleaning contacts on circuit boards, recycling, and much more.

Update: 16.11.2019

Category: Vodka an Moonshine