Distillation -- Operating a Still
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Safety
Distillation vapor path should not be pressurized. Avoid potential clogs in the system.
Secondary distillations should avoid open flames.
Liquid condensates should be directed far from boiler. Avoid conentrated flamable liquids near a source of ignition.
Yields
As a rule of thumb, expect an 8:1 yield of mash:50% alcohol. So, 8 liters of mash should yield 1 liter of 50% alcohol (100 proof).
8 : 1
That's a minimum to expect when first setting up a still. You are probably extracting only half the total alcohol available. With skill, slower distillation, and improved fermentation you can eventually expect better yields.