The basic concept of a Reciprocation Still is similar to that of a hybrid pot-column still, but the main kettle splits into two equal halves. Each kettle can be heated and operated independently, with both feeding to a shared column.

 

Based on the modular nature of the system, the distiller can break the still down into a couple of smaller stills that will allow for more flexibility, the distiller could execute brandy and whiskey program simultaneously without having to clean the still between each type of spirit run.

 

TWO KETTLES DESIGN

The nature of the design also leads to believe that a higher quality of distillate is actually possible if the kettles are used together. The two colliding streams of vapor from the two kettles would create greater reflux.  This would essentially allow for additional purification of the vapor before it even reached the shared column.

 

The majority of the still consists of stainless steel, with copper reserved for bubble plates and caps housed in the column. Copper is only needed for that vapor interaction.  As a result, it doesn’t reduce distillate quality to manufacture the still in such a fashion. In fact, many of those aforementioned massive column stills follow the same principle. A newer design of the Reciprocator has evolved a bit. A separate, small copper head covers each stainless kettle, with both still feeding to a shared column.

 

 

 

ADVANTAGES OF NEW DESIGN

The dual nature of the design adds a great deal of convenience and flexibility for the craft distiller, who’s often producing a diverse range of spirits. Logistically, it’s a more efficient system, reducing energy needs as it’s faster to heat two smaller kettles as opposed to one larger kettle. This saves both time and money.

 

There are many benefits as well. Made primarily with stainless steel, it’s more affordable to produce than an all-copper still.  Additionally, it has a longer working life span. The rig can produce spirit up to approximately 160 proof on a single run, once again offering efficiency and flexibility. It also happens to be unique and eye-catching. With new craft distilleries popping up by the day, standing out from the crowd in any fashion isn’t a bad idea.

 

As craft distilleries push the boundaries with different mash bills, barrel types and sizes, and nearly every other facet of whiskey and spirits production, it’s no surprise that innovation is cropping up with the stills as well, and for which IESG ENGINEERING LLC keeping working hard to ti improve this design.