VEVOR 13.2 Gal Still with Thumper Keg, DTDB-50L-U: features, specs and uses

The VEVOR DTDB-50L-U is a 13.2-gallon (50 L) distiller kit with a fermentation barrel, lid, cooling pot and thumper keg. VEVOR lists fruit wines, whiskies, brandies, water, essential oils and other distilled products among its uses. It is a countertop-sized set for hobby distillation at home.

How the main parts fit together

The kit has four main components: the fermentation barrel, its lid, the cooling pot and the thumper keg. Liquid is heated in the barrel, vapour travels through pipes to the thumper keg, and then passes through the cooling pot, where it condenses back to liquid. VEVOR says the barrel comes in 3, 5, 8 and 13.2 gallon sizes.

The thumper keg

A thumper is an extra vessel between the barrel and the condenser. VEVOR says it acts as a secondary distillation step, liquefying and precipitating impurities in the vapour for a purer, richer result. It also says you can add flavouring ingredients to it to shape the character of the finished product.

Heating and monitoring

The barrel has a thickened stainless steel bottom that VEVOR says suits several heat sources and resists deformation. A unidirectional exhaust valve vents gas from fermentation, which reduces pressure inside. The lid carries a temperature gauge showing Celsius and Fahrenheit, so you can watch the temperature during a run.

Cooling with a copper coil and pump

Copper is a good conductor of heat, and the coil has a large contact area to speed cooling. VEVOR says the smooth pipe interior limits residue build-up. A water pump circulates cooling water, with inlet and outlet valves to control the flow rate.

Sealing and assembly

Silicone plugs at the corrugated pipe joints help keep vapour from leaking, which VEVOR says lowers the chance of burns. The lid has four sealing latches with built-in seals. During assembly, connections are tightened with a wrench. Follow the manual closely, check joints before every run, and never leave a heated still unattended.

Size and weight

The set measures about 15.7 inches on each side and weighs 12.6 lb.

Who it suits

It is for hobbyists who want a larger-capacity set for distilling at home, as well as people making essential oils or distilled water.

What to check before you buy

• Legal rules: the rules on distilling alcohol vary by country, province and state, and a licence or permit may be required. Check local law first.
• Heat source: confirm your stove or burner suits the barrel base and size.
• Water supply: the cooling system needs a bucket or supply of water and a place to put it.
• Space and ventilation: use it in a well-ventilated area, away from open flames, and follow the manual.
• Barrel size: pick the capacity that matches your batches.
• Cleaning: plan how you will clean the coil and pipes after use.

The short version

• 13.2-gallon (50 L) distiller kit with barrel, lid, cooling pot and thumper keg.
• Secondary distillation through the thumper keg.
• Copper cooling coil with a circulating water pump.
• Lid thermometer in Celsius and Fahrenheit, with an exhaust valve.
• Check local law and follow the manual before use.

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