VEVOR 8-Gallon Stainless Steel Still with Copper Condenser: specs explained

This VEVOR kit is a stainless steel pot still with a copper coil condenser and a small circulating pump. VEVOR lists uses such as distilling water, fruit wine, brandy and plant extracts. Distillation is regulated differently from place to place, so this page covers how the equipment works and what to check.

How a still works

A still heats a liquid so the more volatile parts turn to vapour. The vapour travels to a condenser, where it cools and turns back into liquid, which is collected. The same principle is used to purify water and to separate plant extracts. How you may use a still, and for what, depends on the law where you live.

Fermentor and capacity

The fermentor is stainless steel and thick at the base. VEVOR says it is food-grade and gives the capacity as 8 US gallons for 30 litres of raw material in the feature list, while the specifications say about 9.6 US gallons (38 L). Treat these as different ways to describe the same pot, and confirm the figure before relying on it. The pot is 13.8 x 15.7 inches (350 x 400 mm).

Condenser and pump

The condenser keg holds about 0.9 US gallons (3.5 L) and measures 7.9 x 5.1 inches. Inside is a coiled red copper tube, which VEVOR says conducts heat quickly and offers a large area in contact with the cooling water. Copper is widely used for this purpose because it conducts heat well.

The cooling is an open design. The included pump circulates water, which enters at the lower inlet and drains from the upper outlet, according to VEVOR.

Thermometer

A thermometer on the lid shows temperature in both Celsius and Fahrenheit. The listing says it reads up to 200°C (400°F). Watching the temperature is how a distiller follows the process.

Lid, seal and valve

Four quick buckles and a silicone gasket seal the lid. A one-way air evacuation valve lets gas out but not in. VEVOR says to fill it two-thirds with water for grain fermentation. Two side handles help with lifting.

Heat sources

The thick base suits gas, ceramic and electric coil stoves, according to VEVOR. Check that your stove can carry the load and that the pot sits stably.

In the box and weight

The kit includes the fermentor, condenser keg, thermometer, water pump and one-way valve. The net weight is 12.3 lb (5.6 kg), and the listing gives the overall size as 17.0 x 15.0 x 15.0 inches.

Who it suits

It is for adults who are legally allowed to distil in their area, such as people making distilled water or plant extracts. Always follow the manual.

What to check before you buy

• Local law: home distilling of alcohol is restricted or banned in many countries and regions. Check your rules first.
• Capacity: confirm the pot size against your batch plans.
• Heat source: make sure your stove suits a large, heavy pot.
• Ventilation: use it in a well-ventilated area, as vapour from heated liquids can be flammable.
• Water supply: you need a bucket or sink for the cooling water and pump.
• Cleaning: read the instructions on cleaning the copper coil and the seals.

The short version

• A stainless steel pot still with a copper coil condenser and circulating pump.
• Listed capacity of 8 US gallons (30L) in the features and 9.6 US gallons (38L) in the specifications.
• Dual-scale thermometer, one-way valve, quick buckles and a silicone gasket.
• Works on gas, ceramic and electric coil stoves.
• Check your local laws before use.

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