How to build a still 

- The Boiler -

 - Index - 

For the kettle, I have used an old warm water boiler (15 liter) which is normally fitted under the kitchen sink. These old boilers are normally easy to obtain for a limited amount as they are usually treated as scrap metal. Check your local gas/water installation company, they have them usually available. 

Step 1:

Remove all insulation from the copper tank and remove the lid which has the electric heating element connected to it

As you can see, the tank has even a big dent in it, as I was not too cautious when removing the insulation. It is not a problem as copper is a rather soft metal. Dents can easily be removed with a hammer.

Step 2:

Use a regular saw and cut the tank in half. In a  later stage, a  new (flat) bottom will be fitted. This will allow us to use a regular gas stove as a heat source. I have decided not to go for electrical heating as gas is much easier to regulate. (Beware of the potential alcohol fumes if you don't like fireworks!

Doesn't it look terrible?

Go to the next page