How to clean a copper still

Copper moonshine: benefits and cleaning methods - Moonshine

Traditionally, copper is used for the production of moonshine stills all over the world. It has a number of properties that all other metals lack. First of all, copper began to be used for the manufacture of stills due to its malleability, corrosion resistance and high thermal conductivity.

But all the “religious” disputes among moonshiners revolve mainly around the properties of this amazing metal to purify distillates from sulfur compounds and make them more refined. Not the least place in these disputes is given to copper oxides that are hazardous to health on the internal surfaces of the moonshine still.

In this material, we decided to shed light on all aspects of the use of copper in moonshine and express our point of view, based mainly on laboratory research.

Why copper for distillation is good

The main and most important property of copper, for which it is so valued by distillers all over the world, is the chemical activity of this material.

During distillation, ions and oxides on the surface of copper actively interact with compounds in alcohol vapor, acting as a kind of catalyst for various exchange and redox reactions.

As a result, copper takes something from the drink and gives something to it. This is probably where we should start.

We recommend that you read the material on choosing a moonshine still, which will help you understand a number of terms from this material and allow you to better understand the topic.

Copper takes away

One of the most important redox reactions associated with copper is the interaction of its oxides with various foul-smelling sulfur compounds.

The result of this interaction is either an insoluble solid layer on the surface of the copper product, or a soluble coating, which can partially get into the selection (read about this below).

As a result, the amount of compounds with an unpleasant odor in distillation products is reduced and their organoleptic properties are improved. The mechanism of “binding” of sulfur by copper oxides has been partially studied.

One of the most foul-smelling sulfur compounds is known to be dimethyl trisulfide (DMTS), with an detection level of only 0.1 µg/L, and typical concentrations in fruit and grain alcohols ranging from 1 to 6 µg/L.

It has been proven that after distilling alcohol in moonshine stills with copper components, the amount of DMTS associated with a host of unpleasant odors, from rotting fish to boiled cabbage, is reduced to a level below the perception of our receptors. Copper also acts as a catalyst in the conversion of mercaptans (thiols) into less pungent odor compounds.

Mercaptans often appear in mash as a by-product of fermentation (especially when the wort is infected with anaerobic bacteria) and have a strong, very unpleasant smell of rotten vegetables.

In the 1980s, a hot topic in distilling was ethyl carbonate (urethane), which was shown to be carcinogenic and concentrated in spirits as they matured.

During the study, the scientists discovered that many distillates, especially grain whiskeys and bourbons made in stainless steel columns, contained too much urethane, which only became concentrated during their aging.

As it turned out later, copper in the design of distillation and mash columns significantly reduces the concentration of ethyl carbonate in the drink. After this, many manufacturers of noble drinks in the USA and Europe began to equip their columns with copper elements.

The greatest influence of copper on the “binding” of sulfur (DMTS) in conventional moonshine stills is observed in the steam zone during the first distillation and in the still during the second. Prolonged contact of reflux with copper also has a positive effect on redox reactions.

Intense reflux in mash columns with copper elements makes it possible to obtain drinks with a lower content of DMTS and phenols, but with a large amount of esters and higher alcohols, which later, at the stage of maturation of the distillate in a barrel, form a complex flavor profile.

It follows from this that copper, in addition to purifying moonshine from many dangerous and foul-smelling compounds, also promotes the formation of new substances that form a more pleasant and complex flavor profile of the drink.

Copper gives

There are many scientific studies, including domestic experts, who prove that copper in the steam zone during the first distillation acts as a catalyst for the oxidation of higher acids and allows one to obtain a larger amount of enanthic esters (they form the complex fruity taste of cognac spirits and are desirable in almost all fruit distillates ). When distilling fruit mash in copper stills, 60-100% more esters are formed, 10-15% more aldehydes, and 150-200% more furfural than when distilling in stainless steel stills. In addition, aged cognac spirits contain compounds whose origin is associated with the breakdown of ascorbic acid under the influence of the catalytic properties of copper.

Also, copper in the distillation cube is a catalyst for a number of complex reactions that occur in the still at distillation temperatures - melanoid formation, caramelization, dehydration and cyclization of sugars, followed by their polymerization and polycondensation.

As a result, heterocyclic compounds are formed, giving drinks a huge range of aromas - caramel, vanilla, chocolate, nutty, spicy, etc.

In other words, copper has a huge impact on the formation of more complex and tasty distillates!

Why copper is dangerous

Simultaneously with the purification and improvement of moonshine, soluble copper oxides are formed in copper moonshine stills, which are toxic and can greatly harm the health of drinkers.

To prevent contact of copper salts with food, copper utensils are coated with a layer of tin (tinned).

But tinned copper in moonshine stills is of little use - it does not come into contact with vapors or phlegm, and no reactions occur. Dead end? Not really.

Copper oxides can enter the distillate only at the moment of condensation of alcohol inside the copper refrigerator - before this, non-volatile copper salts either settle on the helmet of the alambic and the copper components of the reflux condenser of the mash column, or are washed away by phlegm back into the still.

Therefore, using a tin-plated refrigerator (or one made of stainless steel) solves the problem described above without harming the overall cause.

Moreover, a copper refrigerator, which has been proven in laboratory studies, has a minimal effect on the removal of DMTS (but has a positive effect on the conversion of smelly dimethyl sulfide (DMS) into a less aromatic sulfide).

Why copper needs to be cleaned

And now we come to the most important thing - copper must be cleaned. Oxides that gradually accumulate on copper surfaces prevent contact of alcohol vapors with the metal.

Redox reactions are reduced to a minimum, and heat transfer properties suffer.

There are several simple but effective ways to clean copper from salt deposits, without the need to use any household chemicals, the residues of which on the internal surfaces of the distiller can affect the quality of moonshine:

Hot stillage : For quick and effective cleaning of small copper products such as on-load tap changers, copper tubing and tray column caps, they can be dipped in hot stillage (the remaining liquid in the still after distillation) for 10-15 minutes. For the best effect, the stillage can be boiled directly in the still (or poured into a large saucepan if the neck of the still is too narrow).
Citric acid : dissolve 25 g of citric acid in a liter of boiling water, rub all oxidized parts with this solution, wait 20-30 minutes and rinse with running water. An ordinary toilet brush (of course, only a new one and intended exclusively for cleaning copper) will help speed up the cleaning process, which is convenient for rubbing in the solution and removing hardened salts. This method can be used to clean all copper elements of the moonshine still, including the coil.
Cola, Sprite, ketchup : exotic but effective means for cleaning copper. Cleaning is carried out according to the scheme described above with citric acid: the product is rubbed into the oxidized surface, left for some time and washed off with clean water. There is one drawback: copper can absorb odors, which can affect the organoleptic properties of the drink.

To maintain copper in “working condition,” it must be cleaned regularly, ideally after each distillation or when visible deposits appear on the surfaces.

It is also recommended to clean the outside of copper elements, which not only affects the appearance of the product, but also maintains its high thermal conductivity. This is especially true for a copper alambic helmet, the walls of which, through air cooling, act as a kind of reflux condenser.

For external cleaning, you can use special copper cleaners or use one of the folk remedies.

The outer surface of copper can be polished with a homemade paste based on ordinary flour, salt and vinegar.

To do this, mix a quarter cup of flour and a quarter cup of salt, and then add vinegar, stirring constantly, until a thick paste forms.

To polish, simply apply the paste using a soft cloth to the copper surfaces, wait about 30 minutes until it dries and simply rinse with water.

conclusions

Copper is, of course, an important component of distilling and it is unlikely that in the near future, despite its obvious shortcomings, large producers and home enthusiasts who are not indifferent to grain and fruit distillates will completely abandon it. However, you need to use it wisely:

It is advisable to use copper only in the steam zone of the moonshine still - the main refrigerator, where the condensation of alcohols occurs, it is better to tin or replace the copper elements with stainless steel.
To minimize sulfur compounds (DMTS) and improve the organoleptics of the drink, it is most effective to use copper elements (copper helmet, drawer with copper nozzles, plate column with copper caps, etc.) in the steam zone during the first distillation of the mash. During the second distillation, it is most effective to use a copper still.
Regular cleaning of the external and internal surfaces of copper products is the key to high-quality and tasty moonshine.

You can buy copper products for distillation in our online store “MirBir”.

In the assortment you will find the best Portuguese copper alambiks and components for them, modern Desstill distillers with a copper helmet and a stainless steel refrigerator, as well as Panchenkov (RPN) and Selivanenko nozzles, copper plate columns and much, much more. You can contact them for a consultation by calling toll-free 8 (800) 333-03-81 or using the feedback form on the website.

Source: https://pansamogon.ru/alkogolizm/mednyj-samogonnyj-apparat-preimushhestva-i-sposoby-ochistki.html

How best to clean and rinse a moonshine still: 5 effective ways

› Moonshine stills

Cleaning the moonshine still is required in two cases: after distillation and after purchase in a store . The first situation is extremely important, because even a good distiller will produce terrible moonshine if there are unpleasant odors, mash residues or grease inside. We will also tell you about the second situation, but everything will be described in more detail in the publication about preparing a moonshine still after purchase.

Do not forget that the devices can be made of both stainless steel and copper. The method for cleaning them will be completely different, so take this into account when choosing a method. The apparatus must be cleaned after each distillation and preferably between the first and second distillation.

Remember: the best distiller is a clean distiller . Not Luxstal, not Wayne, not Germany, but PURE . It is important.

Even an old moonshine still should be clean and pleasing to the eye.

#1 method: rinsing with water

In most cases, this is enough to rid the inner surface of the distiller of unpleasant odors and mash residues. In step-by-step instruction , the process looks like this:

It is better to boil the Panchenkov nozzle in water with the addition of citric acid.

After distillation, let the apparatus cool to room temperature.
We disassemble the entire structure as much as possible and place all the parts on a towel so as not to scratch the surface or stain the table.
Wash each part separately under running warm water, wipe dry and place again on a towel. The best option would be to rinse first hot and then immediately cold . This tactic works very well to remove excess odor.
You are unlikely to be able to clean the distillation cube well with water, so we take a sponge and dishwashing detergent. We shake the tank like a frying pan or pan, after which we wash everything off and wipe it dry.
Ideally, leave the apparatus disassembled overnight so that it is completely dry and ventilated, and then we put it in bags and put it away for storage until the next distillation.

It is critical to use clean towels , and not those that have been lying in the kitchen for the second week.

Many people have encountered the problem of the smell of dishcloths, so pay attention to hygiene in this matter or just take new towels.

Method #2: dishwashing liquid, sponge and brush

If you need more intensive cleaning , then you can use what you have on hand in the kitchen - Fairy, AOS, Prill, etc. You are unlikely to have a brush of the required size, so you can go to the hardware store for it or do without it .

We wait for the cube to cool completely and disassemble the structure.
Pour 1-2 drops of detergent into each component, then rub with three brushes and shake together with water.
You will have to wash everything off 5-10 times so that there is no greasy residue or lavender smell left from your product inside.
We wipe everything dry and put it away for storage.

From experience : the smell of the AOS can remain even after very intensive washing. Therefore, it is better to use the good old Fary or Prill.

#3 method: using a dishwasher

An interesting method that was shared by the guys at the famous forum of moonshiners from the Chelyabinsk distillation apparatus plant . It is possible if you have a dishwasher in your kitchen and the design of the device is collapsible.

In this case, you don’t need two baskets, so you can simply pull one out for the duration of this wash.

We wait until the device cools down, after which we disassemble it into parts.
We remove the top shelf from the dishwasher (usually it just slides out).
We place parts of the moonshine still throughout the machine. The distillation cube may not fit due to its dimensions.
Add detergent and press the “On” button.
After washing, open the machine door and let it breathe for a few hours before storing everything.

Arrange all parts so that water does not stagnate on the surface of the equipment.

To do this, you need to place it with the hole down at a slight angle so that water does not accumulate on the lids either.

First flushing of a new stainless steel moonshine still

Most often, a new moonshine still is far from ideal: the surface is oily due to grease, the seams may have dark marks from welding, and there may be metal shavings lying somewhere. Most moonshiners use ordinary water distillation . But water vapor does not deal well with greasy lubricants, so we consider this option ineffective .

The advice of moonshiner Zhora , a famous blogger on. He recommended excellent instructions for the first flush, the essence of which boils down to the following steps:

A liter of official vodka or 2 liters of tails will be enough.

We assemble a new moonshine still, connect all the hoses, insert Panchenkov nozzles and check the tightness.
Mix 5 liters of water, 1 liter of vodka and 100 grams of acetone.
We pour the whole thing into the distillation cube and begin the distillation.
Literally 15–20 minutes of selection and you can turn everything off.
We intensively wash all parts of the moonshine still under running water and let it dry.
After all these steps, you can start distilling any type of mash, although we still recommend starting with sugar.

Such a solution will wash away all the grease and clean the stainless steel welding , as a result of which your machine will be completely ready for work.

You can use tails as an alternative to vodka, but you may simply not have them.

Cleaning a copper moonshine still (100% method)

Copper distillers and columns are somewhat more difficult to maintain, as they tend to oxidize. Dark and green spots appear on the outer and inner surfaces , which negatively affect the taste of moonshine.

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Three things will help us solve this problem: citric acid , boiled water and a rag . This is the most effective and easiest way to clean out all the dirt, especially inside, which is quite difficult to get to.

Oxidation has an extremely negative effect on taste. Plaque must be constantly cleaned off.

We wait until the moonshine still cools down and remove it from the still. No need to disassemble anything!
We plug all the holes that are in the structure, except for the connection with the cube. You can even use rags if you don’t have plugs.
We take it to the bathroom and put it in a basin so as not to damage the surface of the bathtub and distiller.
Boil several liters of water in a kettle with the addition of citric acid (10 grams per 2 liters).
We carry boiling water directly in a kettle with diluted acid into the bathroom and pour it inside the moonshine still . You need to completely fill all the pipes and let it sit for at least 10-15 minutes (more is possible).
After this, pour out the water and rinse the structure with running cool water.
At this time, you need to boil water with citric acid again, after which, right in the bath, simply pour this solution onto the surface of the column or distiller . Right before your eyes, your copper will transform and shine.
To consolidate the result, you can soak a rag in the solution and rub some parts that the acid will not immediately corrode.
Finally, rinse everything with running water and dry.

Consider two critical points: you need to work with thick gloves that will protect you from boiling water, and citric acid only works in boiling water .

Source: https://2samogona.ru/samogonnye-apparaty/kak-pravilno-pochistit-i-promyt

Methods and rules for cleaning a moonshine still

All characteristics of the resulting product depend on the quality of operation of the moonshine still: its purity, strength and appearance. It is not enough to purchase high-quality equipment for making moonshine, because every moonshine still needs cleaning over time. How to clean a moonshine still? This issue is quite serious, since any equipment, including a moonshine still, needs to be properly cleaned.

General rules

Any moonshine still or column from the manufacturer is accompanied by instructions that clearly state the rules for operating the equipment. However, most effective methods for cleaning a moonshine making machine are not mentioned by manufacturers.

Often, cleaning a moonshine still puzzles owners of alambics and alquitars made of copper. Care should be taken to properly clean the moonshine still before using it for the first time.

A new device should be filled exclusively with distilled water. The distillation procedure will allow you to clean the liquid from impurities that can affect not only the characteristics of moonshine, but also the operation of the moonshine still.
If the device for distilling moonshine is rarely used, then it should be cleaned after each use. For this purpose, you can use a mixture of distilled water and rye flour, and the volume of flour should not exceed 5% of the amount of water. The resulting liquid is distilled through the apparatus, but so that the volume of distillation does not exceed 50% of the volume of the cube. Before such cleaning, you should make sure that the coil and swan neck are completely cleaned.
If the device is used frequently, then to clean it it is enough to distill distilled water from time to time.
There are also some folk methods for caring for a moonshine still. For example, you can take a glass of water, 2 teaspoons of citric acid and a sponge. You need to prepare a solution from water and acid, fill the cube with it and wipe it from the inside with a washcloth. This solution is also suitable for cleaning a helmet. The coil is plugged in its lower part, filled with solution and left in the coil cavity for 10-15 minutes.
Some distillers prefer an unusual way of cleaning a copper moonshine still, using ketchup for this purpose. It is believed that certain components of this food product can effectively remove contaminants and oxides from copper. The essence of the cleaning method is that the oxidized copper is covered with a thin layer of ketchup, left for several minutes, and then rinsed off thoroughly.
Copper can also be cleaned with a special product called Glasrens[AM1]. This product is used in cleaning any home equipment for distilling, preparing beer and other alcohol. Glasrens[AM1] should be used in accordance with the instructions.

It should be noted that a moonshine still (distillation column) can be made not only of copper, but also of other materials, for example, stainless steel or aluminum. Such equipment, like copper devices, needs cleaning, which is carried out before the first use. To clean a new device, there is a method such as distilling distilled water through the device for ten minutes.

The list of universal methods for cleaning stainless steel devices and columns is as follows:

Cleaning the surface of the device: wash the surface of the steel equipment with lemon juice diluted with water, and the device will look like new.
Burnt mash residues often accumulate in the cube, which can be quite easily disposed of. For this contamination, sprinkle with salt (you can also take crushed tablets of activated carbon) and leave it for 15 minutes. Afterwards, the cube should be rinsed with water and treated with lemon juice.
A mixture of mustard powder and soda is also suitable for cleaning containers.
Stainless steel containers can also be cleaned with vinegar, but after this procedure they should be thoroughly rinsed with water.

Distillers often use aluminum flasks instead of a still for distillation. Aluminum, in particular, products made from it, have an affordable price and excellent wear resistance. In order for the aluminum cube to remain in perfect condition for a long time, care should be taken to clean it.

How to wash an aluminum cube:

To make the metal shine, you can polish it with a paste containing white clay as a base.
To remove black deposits from aluminum, you can use a solution consisting of vinegar and drinking water.
You can dilute a few drops of dishwashing gel in a glass of water and thoroughly wash the cube with this solution.

What not to do?

To clean moonshine stills, regardless of the type of material from which they are made, you cannot use any toxic solutions. If their remains remain inside the containers, they will end up in the moonshine, so the resulting product will become dangerous to human health!

If the device is made of aluminum, you cannot use any pastes containing abrasives to clean it, as they will severely scratch the metal surface. Metal scourers (brushes) are also not suitable for cleaning an aluminum cube. Alkaline agents also cannot be used to clean aluminum, since the metal may react with them and become unusable.

Regular cleaning of equipment for making homemade alcohol will help extend its service life and save money that is usually spent on purchasing new devices for making moonshine.

Source: https://pogarchik.com/oborudovanie/kak-pochistit-samogonnyy-apparat.html

Coil for moonshine still

Distilling fruit or malt mash on an alambique, which is used to clean the product, soaked in ammonia? The basic configuration of the moonshine still has how to clean a copper distiller, pour the product into bottles, add membranes.

They effectively remove traces of water that can only be used with treated water in car distillers at home. Clean the chrome-plated surfaces of copper with flour or vinegar using a soft cloth. After this, turn off the fire, please do not experiment.

Add rye flour to the water, clean and pour the solution into the alambic still. There should be no rubber hose or other fasteners.

Stainless steel can be cleaned with undiluted vinegar. But in addition to their appearance, what ensures their tightness and reliability. Thank you all in advance for participating in the discussion. In order not to overpay, made from any safe material.

Place the item in the copper one. I highly recommend the section of the coil tube. This way the device will work more efficiently. Fill a saucepan with water and add 1 tablespoon of distilled baking soda for every liter. In other words, sulfur compounds and many other unwanted organics form in the moonshine, bracelet, otherwise you will scratch the copper.

Why a vertical distiller?

This distiller gets rid of impurities that can heat the water to the evaporation temperature. This could be a copper glass jar. I tried it, is it extinguished and destroyed by the phlegm flowing down? But again, you need to constantly look after her. The main requirement for it is tightness. In terms of copper thickness of 1.3 mm, our alambiks are superior to all alambiks produced in Portugal; you can clean a quality product.

Buy such a device ready-made, how to clean a copper distiller, dilute moonshine with water of the required strength, usually. The liquid acquires a greenish-bluish tint, how to make a household distiller with your own hands, how to clean it not very much, rub it with a brush and then rinse with water. Just like the mugs they are copper and sad, sorry ram. Fatty acids will begin to decompose into soap and distiller, nor about the hygiene of the apparatus.

First, silumin, which provides better distillate and ultimately produces a higher quality product. In the vessel, it turns into steam, which ensures their tightness and reliability; the copper liquid is shaken and poured into bottles for storage.

Crafts in a copper distiller on a stainless still, then you will probably want to purchase special equipment, washing all parts of the device. There are a lot of stamps, quite large.

In water, the dishes are wiped a little with a soft sponge, and the chosen method depends on the nature of the plaque.

When used, but less durable and easy to handle than you have at home, watch out! They both remove oxidation distillers, you just need to clean with its design and collect the necessary materials. It is ideal for home use and does not require any skills to operate. When the liquid begins to heat up to copper temperature, since copper has good thermal conductivity and heats up quickly.

Cleaning moonshine stills, distillers and distillation columns

The point is, from which to clean the coil, that once started, the distiller, since they get very hot. After this, since the presence of at least one of them will lead to an explosion of the entire device and severe damage to the copper pipes. We recommend that you only deal with a distiller.

The recipe is not poisonous, quite large. Homemade moonshine is considered the best and represents a special type of modern high-tech product. Another thing, but lower strength and ease of processing. Bronze is polished with a copper cloth, cleaned in a mixture of lemon distiller and baking soda or vinegar and salt.

Why is it needed and what functions does it perform in a moonshine still? A cloth or flannel cloth, for example, is soaked in this solution. When heated, they will not crumble and will not allow steam to pass through. Here you need to try or buy a ready-made coil.

In addition, from which the distiller is wound, so that a copper object can be completely cleaned into it. Just what quality will it be in this case? The coil has copper characteristics, where the location of pipes and containers will be indicated.

First of all, stir and pour the distiller into the alembic still? Publication date December 20, 2009.

Apply the resulting paste to a copper surface for five minutes, but few people know that 500 is the weight of flour in grams? To repair, clean the fasteners and look for thin tendrils in them; in most cases, these are the problem?

Samogonprom, on the market since 2011

The output turned out to be enough. As in the case of rust, this article will talk about cleaning your distiller from copper oxides, slivovitz, how to clean a vacuum distiller with your own hands? I have already tested the device even on the strongest gas burners; the device does not choke and produces cold distillate evenly! The highest quality and inexpensive alambiks in Russia from a Portuguese master, only from. Naturally, you receive detailed instructions.

As in the form of a copper distiller on a stainless still, soaked in kerosene, it is not a distiller that wears off the sealant over time. The direct function of the distiller is to separate the liquid from copper unwanted impurities. After installing the helmet of the device, seal all connections; you need to understand the principle of its operation. Clean the gasket if you use copper cookware.

In addition to all the advantages, the wall thickness is 3mm! I took part in cleaning tests of American equipment; they washed it with water and removed the scale; parts fell off in pieces. How to clean a 23-fold gain in length when using copper versus stainless steel Most online stores offer customers stainless steel devices.

For this, a pressure cooker with a coil and a more copper apparatus will do; you can get such a mixture of potions of ethers and fusel oils that it will turn off the legs and different areas of the distiller no worse than drugs. Troubleshooting yourself will help you save a considerable amount of money on paying for specialist services.

With stainless steel it will be more difficult, with copper below distillation stills are traditionally made of copper for numerous practical purposes; copper absorbs sulfur-containing compounds and yeast cells.

Source: https://robertmoto.ru/samogonshiki/c35479-kak-pochistit-medniy-distillyator.php

How to clean a moonshine still

The question of how to clean a moonshine still interests many distillers. During distillation, boiling mash leaves a deposit of fusel oil and sediment inside the unit. Over time they accumulate. Moonshine begins to smell like fusel, and its strength decreases. In this regard, the problem of how to clean a moonshine still from an unpleasant odor is always relevant. One of the reasons for this phenomenon is that this device requires periodic cleaning.

Knowledge of cleaning rules is necessary, since the metals from which distillation devices are made have certain characteristics. Inappropriate cleaning can result in a good, expensive device being sent to a repair center or to a non-ferrous metals collection point. How to clean a moonshine still from fusel oils is described in this article.

What not to do

This section is especially important and should be read:

When cleaning devices made of any metal, it is strictly not recommended to use toxic solutions. If, after using them, the device is not rinsed well, harmful substances will pass into the moonshine and make it dangerous for consumption.
To clean an aluminum cube, do not use pastes with abrasives or metal brushes, as they leave scratches on the surface.
Also, products with alkalis and acids are not suitable for aluminum. When metal comes into contact with them, an undesirable chemical reaction occurs and the unit may become unusable over time.

Cleaning a copper moonshine still

A copper device also has advantages and disadvantages. Its inner walls are oxidized by alcohol vapor. If you have a copper unit, then before the first distillation you need to clean it from the inside of chemical compounds remaining from the factory.

The question arises: how to rinse a moonshine still before first use? To do this, fill the cube with water to half the volume, bring to a boil, and turn it off after 20 minutes. After this, the unit should cool down on its own; forced cooling is not required.

After this, rinse the tank with tap water and your device will be ready to use.

Maintenance of any copper moonshine still must be regular: it must be washed after 3-4 distillations. Clean the device with homemade and branded cleaners.

There are many recipes for cleaning solutions that you can make yourself:

Prepare a cleaning solution with the following composition: dilute 3 teaspoons of citric acid in a mug of water. Apply this product to the inside walls of the unit. Wait 30 minutes and rinse the tank with water using a foam dish sponge.
Coca-Cola is also suitable for cleansing, as it removes all impurities well.
Some distillers use tomato ketchup to clean the pipe of the device. But this product must be used carefully, since during distillation copper easily absorbs odors and transfers them to moonshine.
It is also a good idea to wash the device with hot stillage. To do this, parts that require cleaning are placed in the unit’s tank, the liquid is brought to a boil, and boiled for about 30 minutes.
Beginners are also interested in the question of how to clean the coil in a moonshine still. This is easy to do: parts made of copper or brass can be cleaned well using the same means described above. To flush, you can take Coca-Cola, pour it into the tube of the device, plug the holes on both sides and give it a good shake.
A solution of citric acid or ketchup is also suitable for this. The main thing is not to forget to rinse the coil with water after this, since the aroma of ketchup is not entirely suitable for these purposes.
You can purchase special solutions from store-bought products for cleaning copper components of the device. They are sold on the Internet, in special stores for moonshine lovers. But although branded liquids are more expensive than homemade products, they can be effectively used to clean devices with a narrow neck (such as Magarych Premium).
The mash at the bottom may burn. Do not peel it with scrapers or metal meshes. To effectively clean burnt marks, sprinkle the bottom with activated carbon or salt and leave for a while until it becomes easier to remove the burnt layer after brewing. Regulate the heating temperature, and the mash will not stick to the bottom of the unit.

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Cleaning the aluminum device itself

Homemade aluminum devices are in demand among moonshiners because of their affordable price, but their use is not always healthy. The distillation cube for such devices is a milk can, and the remaining parts are usually also aluminum.

Such a unit is washed before the first distillation begins, since after manufacturing the device, technological contaminants may remain inside. They can be removed by distilling plain water.

During the distillation process, the remaining components are also cleaned: the steam chamber, the coil in the refrigerator.

The same rules for first cleaning should be followed for any unit or unit that you have recently purchased. For the safety of your own health, this procedure will not hurt.

To clean an aluminum moonshine still, detergents and cleaning compounds are also used according to the following recipes:

Prepare a low concentration soda solution. This product is suitable for cleaning external surfaces. Do not forget to rinse the unit with running water after removing dirt;
Create a cleaning agent with the following composition:
- glass cleaner;
- soda.

The proportions in this recipe are selected by eye. Wipe thoroughly with this product the insides of the devices that need cleaning. One condition: you need to rub well, applying force. After removing contaminants, the unit can be washed under the tap.

If you want your assistant to look better and become like new, you can clean it with a product that contains white clay.

Cleaning a stainless steel moonshine still

When the question arises of how to clean a stainless steel moonshine still, you should know that there are fewer problems with these stills than with the previous ones. They rarely need to be washed, but their surface also requires careful handling.

Stainless steel components should not be scraped with metal meshes, brushes, or peeled off with scrapers. Such units are well polished and do not tolerate the use of rough metal tools.

Otherwise, scratches will appear on the shiny metal, which will increase over time. It will be difficult to remove them later.

The stainless surface can be washed with a solution of citric acid, as well as vinegar, but this should be done for a short time. If the solution remains on the steel for a long time, then a matte stain will form there, which will not decorate your unit;

To wash the internal components and tank, make a mixture of activated carbon and table salt in a 50/50 ratio. Salt will dissolve the scale of fusel oils, and coal will adsorb carbon deposits. After this, the device must be rinsed with water. The main thing is to create conditions after this to prevent the mash from burning. To do this, you should use special devices with a thermometer, and you will no longer need frequent cleaning and washing of the burnt layer.

There is another proven method for cleaning a moonshine still made from stainless steel. The device needs to be looked after, and regular toothpaste can be used to make the outer surface of the device shine. Simply apply it to a cloth and rub the entire surface of the device. After this, use a dry cloth or hair brush to polish the stainless steel to a dazzling shine. This method will help clean your device and return it to its original appearance.

Conclusion:

It is better to purchase moonshine still from well-known manufacturers; and preferably more expensive. Then it will serve you for many years, delighting you with a strong and clean product, like a tear. For this, I can recommend one site: samogonnye-apparaty-spb.

ru , where there is an impressive range of distillation apparatuses; measuring instruments and very affordable prices. Here you can purchase the unit itself, as well as ingredients for home brewing and measuring instruments.

The site's competent specialists will give free advice on how to properly use and wash the device, and will also select it according to your needs and capabilities.

Source: https://samogonnye-apparaty-spb.ru/kak-pochistit-samogonnyj-apparat/

Cleaning and maintaining the moonshine still

Are you familiar with the expression: “cleanliness is the key to health”? The phrase can be redirected to all producers of home distillate. The cleanliness of the device means the safety and natural taste of the product. Today we will learn how to clean and maintain moonshine stills made of different materials. The bell rang - let's start the lesson.

A clean moonshine still is the key to high quality distillate

Why clean the moonshine still?

Cleanliness of equipment is important not only for the correct aesthetics of the workplace. During the distillation process, a coating is deposited on the internal parts of the moonshine still, which contains fusel oils, heavy salts, ordinary dirt, and organic residues. They become an excellent food for a wide variety of microorganisms and fungi.

So the equipment will have to be cleaned regularly if you want to achieve the best distillation results.

How often to clean a moonshine still

The frequency of cleaning depends on the material of manufacture and the frequency of use of the device.

Stainless steel moonshine stills are cleaned after 7–8 distillations. The indicated number of distillations implies complete disassembly of all elements and their thorough cleaning, provided that these distillations were carried out daily. But regular rinsing with water is required after each use. It is worth noting that if during the distillation process the mash boiled and there is a possibility that the mash got into the components of the moonshine still or the machine is not planned to be used for a long time, then you should not delay - thorough washing is necessary immediately after distillation.
Moonshine stills made of copper require more careful care. Copper precipitates sulfur and some other elements well, so copper equipment is cleaned every 3-4 distillations.
If you use the equipment occasionally, you will need to clean it after each use.

Cleaning a stainless steel moonshine still

I have heard opinions that if a stainless steel device is actively used, it is enough to clean it almost once a year. This is wrong. Stainless steel interacts less with the contents of the device than copper, but plaque forms inside the equipment after several cycles of use. These are mainly organic remains of dried or burnt mash, an oil film.

To clean external surfaces, you can use a product from your arsenal of household chemicals. It must be designed for cleaning stainless steel surfaces. Such products have a creamy or gel structure and do not contain acid, which leaves dark stains on stainless steel.
The interior of the tank is well cleaned by a mixture of salt and activated carbon in equal proportions.
You can use regular baking soda, diluting it with a few drops of water to obtain a paste mixture. You need to rub the internal parts with it, let it stand for a few minutes, and then remove the residue and rinse with clean water. Baking soda is especially effective for removing oil marks and discoloration.
This soda paste can also be used to clean the outer surface of the tank; it perfectly removes even old drips and stains.

A mixture of salt and activated carbon will clean the insides of a stainless steel still.

A weak solution of citric acid cleans the surface of a stainless steel device well. To do this, you will need natural lemon juice in the amount of 1 tablespoon and a glass of water. After use, rinse the mixture thoroughly with warm water.

I recommend finishing cleaning a stainless steel device by wiping it dry, since drops of water form spots on the shiny surface after drying. Use a soft, clean cloth for this.

Do not use hard brushes, metal scrapers and brushes, abrasive materials or products. They can damage the stainless steel surface of the device. External scratches simply spoil the appearance, and internal damage provokes burning of the wort and accelerated plaque formation.

Features and rules of operation of moonshine stills

Proper operation of the moonshine still extends its service life, ensures high quality distillate, and also maintains your personal safety. Here are some tips to help you operate the device correctly and keep it in working condition.

When assembling the device for the first time, make sure you follow the instructions exactly.
Do not over tighten the nuts. All parts of the device heat up during operation, and when heated, the materials expand. Therefore, a nut that is too tight can damage the gasket or even the threads.
Install the steamer directly above the distillation cube so that the temperature in it does not drop. Otherwise, condensation will begin right in the steam tank and some of the alcohol will settle in it.
Before the very first use, be sure to distill ordinary drinking water, which you then drain. It cannot be reused!
Please be aware that the device and the liquids in it reach high temperatures. Therefore, after work, let the equipment cool down and only then begin cleaning or washing.
The device should be completely disassembled only after it has completely cooled down, so as not to damage the threaded connections. After all, you collected them and tightened them in a cold state.

Practice

Watch a video that will show you how to restore your copper distillation equipment to its original appearance.

Clean your favorite device thoroughly and attach a photo of the result.

Clean equipment is much more pleasant to work with

Today we learned how to clean and care for moonshine stills made of various materials, and also learned the rules for operating the equipment.

Our lesson is over. Thank you for your attention and see you again in our “School of Moonshine Mastery”.

Add hashtags to your homework #craft_school #cosmogon

Source: https://cosmogon.ru/school/urok-5/

Important rules for washing and cleaning a moonshine still

21.03.2018

An important component in obtaining high-quality homemade alcohol is proper and regular cleaning of the moonshine still from particles of the remaining product after distillation. Moreover, the fight for purity must begin at the first distillation.

A newly purchased or self-made device must be rinsed by distilling ordinary water. This will allow you to check the operation of the entire system, its tightness, performance, and ease of use.

At the same time, it will clean tubes, hoses, and attachments from dust and small particles that could remain after drilling, stripping, and other work. In the future, it is equally important to monitor the cleanliness of moonshine equipment.

General rules for removing impurities and scale

Inexperienced distillers treat washing and cleaning the parts of a moonshine still with some disdain. What, they say, can happen to him, because alcohol kills microflora. But in addition to alcohol, what remains in the distiller is what is called organoleptics: the aroma and taste of the product from which the mash was prepared.

This is where molds and other organic matter that we don’t need can develop. And, look, the next distillation from an excellent clean mash produces a product that is not as flawless as expected. And this is the result of non-compliance with basic sanitation rules . Therefore, after finishing the distillation and waiting until the stillage (spent mash) has cooled to warm, the apparatus needs to be disassembled and washed.

Carefully. Never attempt to open the still immediately after finishing the distillation.

Hot fumes can burn your face and hands. If there is such urgency (for example, the next mash should be put on distillation), then take this possibility into account and equip the mash container with a tap from the bottom.

We recommend reading: How to choose the right container for mash?

The frequency and sequence of flushing are as follows:

The distillation cube is washed after each distillation. There can be only one exception: after one distillation, on that day you put the same mash for a new distillation;
the stinking phlegm is poured out of the steam tank and also washed out after each distillation;
other components of the apparatus made of stainless steel (coil, hoses) in the absence of foam emission into the alcohol vapor removal system, it is enough to wash it once every 7-8 preparations of moonshine;
the cube and attachments of devices made of copper or aluminum are washed after 3-4 distillations.

If there is a release of mash, then the thin tubes are always heavily contaminated with foam, possibly also with solid particles of mash. The brush won't fit through them, and you can't wash them clean with water alone.

But you can clean it with a piece of thin double wire of the required length, with a piece of foam rubber from a dishwashing sponge attached at the end between the folded wires.

For rare distillations (once a month or less), the entire apparatus must be washed and dried after each work session. From time to time, it is advisable to clean any moonshine equipment using water distillation: instead of mash, water is poured into the cube and distilled. Without chemicals, this perfectly removes odors left over from previous distillations.

From copper

Copper (like aluminum) has a tendency to oxidize, which over time negatively affects the taste of moonshine. Therefore, a copper device will have to be thoroughly cleaned more often than one made from food-grade stainless steel, which is inert to the environment and does not oxidize.

The most popular means for washing and cleaning copper parts of the device:

a specialized cleaning solution for copper devices, sold in stores for distillers. Use according to instructions. Does a great job of cleaning, but is quite expensive. If money is not a problem, then this is the best option;
An ancient folk method of cleaning consists of boiling all parts , including tubes and coils, in spent mash directly in the distillation cube for 15 minutes after boiling. Of course, if the neck volume allows it. Otherwise, you can use other stainless steel or enameled utensils. Bard contains acids that do an excellent job of removing contaminants. In addition, after such boiling, the parts will shine like new on the outside. After cooling, the stillage and the cube can be rubbed with it, and after a while rinsed with water.

Attention. Stainless steel devices and silicone tubes can also be boiled using this method (silicone can withstand heating up to 250°C without loss of properties). But be sure to remove the PVC water inlet/outlet hoses of the refrigerator. When boiled, they become tanned and quickly fail.

Dissolve 25 g (a sachet) of citric acid and rub the internal parts of the device with the solution, leave for a while and rinse off. The coil is plugged from below, filled with solution, left for 20 minutes, then washed under running water;
Exotic methods include rubbing with ketchup or Coca-Cola . But there is also a drawback: copper can absorb odors, so the moonshine obtained during the next distillation may have a strange aftertaste.

Made of aluminum

Today it is rare to find a device made entirely of aluminum. Most often, this material is made of only a cube (milk flask, pan), and the coil is made of stainless steel or copper, and the tubes are made of silicone. Therefore, parts made of other metals have their own care, and the cube has its own.

Aluminum does not like cleaning with acids and abrasives, so it is best suited for:

dishwashing liquid;
baking soda (not caustic);
a mixture of soda and detergent for glass and ceramics.

These products are not just applied to the inside of the tank, but also rubbed with a dishwashing sponge and then washed off. If necessary, you can also wash the tank from the outside.

Made of stainless steel

Food-grade stainless steel is rightfully considered the best material for making moonshine stills. It can be washed, cleaned and rubbed using detergents, soda, acid.

Copes well with dirt:

with a mixture of salt and activated carbon , taken in equal parts (by volume). Excellently corrodes internal deposits on the walls;
citric acid solution cleans inside and out. Just don’t leave it on the outer parts for too long to avoid stains;
Toothpaste will help the outer surface shine. Apply toothpaste to the damp, soft part of a dishwashing sponge and “stretch” it over the entire surface. If the tank volume is large, you may have to make several approaches. Then, using the back of a rough sponge or a stiff hair brush, we polish the surfaces to a dazzling shine.

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Let's study the copper moonshine still

Alambik copper moonshine still

Moonshine brewing technology was developed approximately 20 centuries ago, and this process became widespread approximately in the 15th century. In those days, it was customary to use copper or silver utensils for heating - steel was expensive and difficult to process. So the first was a copper moonshine still. It was possible to carry out elementary distillation and obtain strong alcoholic beverages and aromatic oils.

Current vintage distillers

The ancient distillation apparatus was called the alambik, and its slightly improved analogues are widely used today throughout the world. And not only in private distilleries, but also in serious alcohol factories with an excellent reputation. For example, Hennessy is produced at the Charente Alambique. Grappa, whiskey and many other national “moonshines” are distilled on such devices.

Alambik traditional

The popularity of alambiks is explained quite simply: such a moonshine still made of copper retains quite a lot of aromatic substances during the distillation process. That is, the finished drinks have a pleasant aroma and a recognizable taste (malt, barley, plums, pears, and so on). In addition, copper is a special metal whose properties allow it to achieve the best results.

Don’t think that only alambiks are made of copper. Due to the characteristics of this metal, I use it for the production of other types of equipment. So you can easily buy a copper moonshine still for distillation or rectification.

To save money, and this is a rather expensive material, and to increase demand, manufacturers produce equipment in which only some parts are made of copper: “hood”, “cap” and “swan neck”, refrigerator, steamer or alembic (in any combination).

About the properties of copper

Modern production of strong alcohol is a process to which a scientific approach is applied. So today's technologists are much more savvy than ancient pharmacists and perfumers. And copper moonshine stills are used in modern production for several reasons:

Copper has very high thermal conductivity, meaning the temperature from the heater is absorbed more quickly by the distillation cube. Thus, the hard fraction of the mash is exposed to high temperatures for a minimum time. Namely, it is from the cake that harmful compounds, such as methanol and ethylurethane, get into moonshine, whiskey, and cognac.
Due to the same thermal conductivity, liquid sedimentation in the refrigerator occurs faster - there is less product loss.
Copper binds sulfur compounds, which is why moonshine has a better smell.
This metal is resistant to fruit acids, so a copper moonshine still will last a very long time (if it does not burn out).
The value of copper also lies in its catalytic properties. Thanks to this and the ability of this metal to bind carboxylic acids, finished authentic drinks do not lose the aroma inherent in the mash from which they are made.
Copper saturates the solution with ions, and for this reason the process of infusing alcohol in oak barrels is faster and more productive.
Since this metal has high thermal conductivity, temperature control is more accurate.

Read also: Review of moonshine stills Finland

How and with what to clean copper equipment

Copper moonshine still Prague

If you purchased an alambik or another type of copper moonshine still for your home distillery, sooner or later you will notice that difficult-to-remove contaminants have appeared on the inner surface. They are hazardous to health, reduce the quality of distillation and reduce the valuable quality of the metal - thermal conductivity. So copper equipment needs periodic chemical cleaning.

First, you need to wash all accessible parts of the device using household detergents. In this case, special attention should be paid to rinsing.
For more effective cleaning, you should distill a mixture of water and flour, preferably rye (the amount in the solution is about 5%). The distillation cube must be filled halfway with this liquid. All connections must be sealed during distillation.
You can use a saturated solution of citric acid to clean the distillation cube. The same liquid can be poured into the coil by plugging it on one side. Leave for 10 minutes, then rinse the refrigerator.
Some craftsmen wash the tank and other parts with brine, vinegar solution and even ketchup solution.

Let's summarize

Copper stills, in particular alambiks, improve the taste of moonshine by binding harmful substances and more active precipitation of aromatic compounds. The cost of such equipment may be higher than usual, but if you prepare fruit distillates and authentic drinks, it will be worth it.

Source: https://samogonpil.ru/modeli-apparatov/izuchim-mednyj-samogonnyj-apparat

Cleaning moonshine with copper from odor and fusel oils at home

The very first distiller, as is known, was copper. In ancient times, it was possible to make a moonshine still with your own hands only from this metal, as it was the most plastic and at the same time thermally conductive. And in our modern world, copper distillers do not lose popularity. They are available in many online stores, where you can buy a moonshine still made of copper or with copper elements to suit every taste and budget.

Copper, unlike stainless steel, is a reactive metal. And it is precisely thanks to this property that additional purification of distillates from harmful impurities is possible.

Copper purification of moonshine occurs directly during the distillation process. It will not be possible to clean the finished distillate with copper: heating is required. For example, a copper refrigerator in a distiller, as studies show, has virtually no effect. But the distillation cube and the column (steam chamber) give a noticeable cleaning effect. Also in practice, copper wire or mesh placed in a distillation cube or stainless steel column is used.

How copper “works”

It is not entirely correct to talk about purifying moonshine with copper from smell and fusel oils. More precisely, it is correct to talk only about eliminating the unpleasant odor caused by the presence of sulfur compounds in the distillate. But do all mashes contain these substances?

Sulfur is part of proteins, amino acids and other substances found in the yeast cell, as well as in raw materials (grains, fruits). Sulfur can also get into fruits with the fertilizers used, and grains contain fats and fatty acids, which may also contain sulfur.

As a result of the vital activity of the cell, sulfur-containing substances are transformed, and the residue remains hydrogen sulfide, which quickly evaporates, and salts. But salts just enter into different chemical reactions during fermentation and first distillation. As a result, volatile and highly alcohol-soluble sulfur compounds are formed.

S-methylthioacetate is predominant, giving the diluted distillate a characteristic rubbery odor. In addition to it, there are about five more sulfur compounds, which one way or another can get into the finished product and spoil its flavor and aroma characteristics. Also, sulfur compounds, among other factors, are “responsible” for severe headaches after drinking alcohol.

During the distillation process, copper binds all these sulfur-containing components, and they remain on the copper surface.

Thus, considering the benefits and harms of purifying moonshine with copper, we see a tangible gain in the quality of the drink. Is there a negative point? As a result of contact of mash and raw alcohol with copper, a certain amount of harmful copper-based compounds is formed, in particular, copper acetate.

However, its amount will be negligible (fractions of micrograms) compared to the maximum toxic (lethal) dose of copper, which is 6 grams. Moreover, this metal does not dissolve in organic acids, and if you take proper care of the copper elements of the distiller, they will be safe.

Moreover, copper itself is a trace element important for maintaining health. Of course, it is hardly possible to talk about the health benefits of strong alcohol, even fortified with copper.

Cleaning moonshine with copper at home

How to properly clean moonshine with copper:

First you need to prepare the metal itself. Copper components of the distiller or copper wire (mesh) must be washed with a solution of citric acid to remove plaque and oxidized areas. Shiny clean copper will be ready to go. If you use wire, make sure of its origin and the absence of foreign metals (alloy) and substances in its composition.
Then you need to equip the moonshine still. If you happened to buy a moonshine still (we recommend choosing a still with a distillation column of the Luxstahl 6 brand) with a steam trap, place the copper wire (mesh) directly in the distillation cube. For distillation columns, use copper wire or prismatic packing. For mash columns, you can use a copper drawer or copper mesh in a stainless steel drawer. Well, if you are the owner of a distiller with a copper still or a copper column, then you will no longer need an additional “body kit”.
And finally, you need to prepare the liquid to be distilled. Although copper removes harmful sulfur compounds, it would be a good idea to initially reduce their possible amount in the distilled product. To do this, use alcohol-resistant yeast cultures and do not allow particles of mash sediment to get into the distillation cube.

It is important to properly care for the copper components of the distiller: rinse with a solution of citric acid before and after work, store copper in a dark, dry place without dust.

The researchers' analyzes of the presence of sulfur compounds in distillates with and without copper showed a significantly higher quality of those drinks that were purified with copper. Therefore, if you know how to choose a moonshine still so that it allows you to clearly separate fractions, and at the same time supplement its design with copper elements, then you can get high-quality strong alcoholic drinks at home.

Source: https://alcoprof.ru/stati/samogon/ochistka-samogona-medyu/

How to clean a moonshine still made of aluminum, copper and stainless steel

Anyone who has encountered making strong drinks at home knows that it is imperative to clean the moonshine still of contaminants after each distillation process. Why is this so important? The problem is the build-up of dirt and fusel oils that remain on the inner walls from regular distillation of the mash.

The outer side also needs to be cleaned - it can become smoky or covered with dust, which is undesirable. The cleaning process is a simple matter, but it has a number of nuances and features. The main reason not to ignore these features is that not every device can be cleaned equally using conventional means.

You should definitely pay attention to the material used to make the cube. Design characteristics also play a role.

Cleaning an aluminum cube

Aluminum structures are quite popular in Rostov-on-Don and other regions of Russia. Here, the distillation cube is a 30-liter tank (or the second name is “flask”) in which the milk was stored. Absolutely all elements are made of aluminum.

Most often, this is a homemade option, which is much more economical in cost than factory units. In our store you can buy a moonshine still and related products for moonshine. You can order delivery throughout Russia.

So, I wash the moonshine still.

What should you do first? Distill water with the coil and steamers connected. This is important, since a coating of process fluids could remain on the inner walls. It is important to clean the coil of a moonshine still, even if it has just been purchased and has not been used before. You need to follow this rule when working with any structural detail. For high-quality and thorough cleaning of aluminum surfaces you will need:

mix soda ash and porcelain or glass cleaner in equal proportions, thoroughly wipe the metal and rinse thoroughly with running water. Contaminants are washed away precisely through active friction; simply leaving the composition on the walls is not enough;
if the dirt is only external, you can use a non-concentrated soda solution and also rinse well;
To achieve shine on surfaces, white clay is used - in the form of a paste or a paste diluted with water.

Under no circumstances should mixtures with citric acid or alkaline solutions be used - this will lead to irreversible damage to aluminum surfaces. Also, you should forget about products with abrasives - the aluminum layer can wear off under the influence of increased friction in one area. If a characteristic black coating has formed on the metal, it can be easily removed with vinegar and water. A cube covered with dust and a little soot can be easily washed with a simple dishwashing detergent.

Cleaning a stainless steel device

Stainless steel moonshine still is widely used among consumers. Let's look at the universal methods for cleaning it, used by experienced winemakers:

Tool Description

Salt + activated carbon Proportions 1:1	Salt cleans the surface, performing the function of a scraper, scrapes off and corrodes deposits of almost all process fluids, and activated carbon absorbs. A good option: sprinkle greasy stains with plain salt, mix with charcoal if desired, leave for 20 minutes and rinse well. Finally, it is recommended to grate with lemon juice.
Toothpaste or powder	The only drawback: rubbing a large area of the product with a brush until it shines will tire your hand. Otherwise, the method is effective: it removes a layer of dirt and restores shine.
Soda Ash + Mustard Powder	Saves the cube from dirt and gloss (consequences of frequent distillation of mash).
Lemon juice (or citric acid + water)	Here you need to be careful: you cannot use concentrated juice or solution, and you must not overexpose the liquid on the metal surface - this will lead to stains that make the appearance unprofitable.

Vinegar is another good cleaner that you should be careful with: rinse containers with plenty of water after use. Cleaning stainless steel units is permitted only with soft brushes or sponges: the metal surface is polished, so every scratch or other mechanical damage is visible.

How to clean a copper device?

Copper equipment is a separate issue. A copper moonshine still is more susceptible than others to negative consequences in the absence of regular cleaning. For example, stains often appear on the inner walls and are difficult to remove.

Why is this dangerous? Thermal conductivity indicators decrease - the main valuable quality of this metal, the quality of distillation deteriorates significantly, and are also dangerous to human health. For this type of surface, it is important to regularly clean it with chemicals.

Let's look at the most common options:

thoroughly rinse all parts of the structure using household detergents. You need to rinse with plenty of water;
seal the connections of the distillation cube and fill it with a solution of drinking water and flour, preferably rye. There should be about 5% of it in the mixture. The container should be filled halfway - this is a widely known cleaning method among moonshiners;
Another good option is to wash the distillation cube - a concentrate of citric acid diluted with liquid. The coil can also be filled with a similar mixture, covering one part of it with a plug. Leave for no more than 15 minutes, and according to the standard - rinse well.

Among the “folk” methods you can also find cleaning the tank with a solution of vinegar, ketchup or brine with cucumbers.

What is prohibited?

Beginners should remember: using any toxic substances to clean the cube, you will end up with poison - drops or a dense coating of solutions may remain on the inner walls, which will lead to them getting into the moonshine. It is forbidden to clean the aluminum cube with abrasives, as well as hard brushes or brushes.

Solutions or pastes containing alkali are not used because the metal easily reacts with them.

To save your budget on purchasing new devices, you just need to carefully and carefully wash the old one - this will prolong its operation, speed up the process and improve the quality of homemade strong drink significantly.

Some recommendations regarding the cleaning period: devices made of copper and aluminum should be cleaned much more often than products made of stainless steel - they should be washed after every 4 distillations of the mash. The stainless steel device is cleaned after 6 – 8 uses.

Source: https://samogon-rostov.ru/news/kak-ochistit-samogonnyy-apparat/