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

The VEVOR DTDB-50L-U is a 13.2-gallon (50L) stainless steel still kit with a thumper keg, a copper condenser tube and a circulating water pump. VEVOR presents it for home distilling of products such as fruit wine, whisky, brandy and vodka, and also for distilling water and ethanol.

Rules on home distilling differ widely by country, province and state. In many places, making spirits at home is restricted or needs a licence. Check your local law before you buy or use any still.

The main parts

The kit includes a fermentation barrel, a lid, a cooling pot and a thumper keg. VEVOR says the barrel comes in several sizes (3, 5, 8 and 13.2 gallons), and this model is the 13.2-gallon version. The dimensions are about 15.7 inches on each side and the weight is 12.6 lb.

Fermentation barrel and heating

VEVOR describes a thickened stainless steel base that works with a range of heat sources, including gas stoves and wood fires, and resists deforming. A one-way exhaust valve releases gas produced during fermentation to reduce pressure, and a lid thermometer reads in Celsius and Fahrenheit. Four fixed latches with built-in seals hold the lid down.

Temperature matters because the liquid must be heated gradually, so a gauge that you can see helps you keep track of it.

What a thumper keg does

A thumper is an extra chamber placed between the pot and the condenser. The vapour passes through it for a second distillation, which VEVOR says gives a purer, richer result. It can also hold flavouring ingredients to add complexity, according to the brand. Thumpers are a traditional feature of whisky-style stills.

Condenser and water pump

Vapour must be cooled back into liquid. VEVOR uses a copper tube for its good thermal conductivity and says its smooth inner surface leaves no residue or aftertaste. A pump circulates cooling water, which helps keep cooling consistent. Silicone plugs at the corrugated pipe joints reduce leaks of water vapour, which VEVOR notes can lower the risk of burns. Tighten the connections with a wrench during assembly, and read the manual's instructions on heat, ventilation and supervision.

Who it suits

Mainly home hobbyists where distilling is lawful, particularly those wanting a larger batch than a countertop unit allows. It may also interest anyone who wants a water distiller.

What to check before you buy

• Legal status: confirm the rules where you live.
• Heat source: make sure your stove or burner can carry the base and its weight.
• Space: the setup needs room for the barrel, thumper, condenser and a water supply or bucket.
• Ventilation: use it in a well-ventilated place, away from open flames and other fuels, as the manual describes.
• Cleaning: clean all parts before first use and after each batch.
• Output: check what you plan to distil and how much, against the 13.2-gallon capacity.

The short version

• A 13.2-gallon (50L) stainless steel still kit with a barrel, lid, cooling pot and thumper keg.
• Copper condenser tube with a circulating water pump.
• Lid thermometer, exhaust valve and four sealing latches.
• Works with several heat sources, including gas stoves.
• Check local distilling law before buying.

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