Differences of a Copper Onion, Helmet & Expansion Chamber

Copper has been a staple material in the distillation of alcohol for centuries. Its unique properties make it an ideal choice for creating essential components of distillation apparatuses such as onion-shaped stills, expansion chambers, and helmets.

Expansion Chamber

The chamber is designed to allow the alcohol vapors to expand and cool down before being condensed back into a liquid form. Copper is an ideal material for an expansion chamber as it is highly malleable, allowing it to be shaped into the required form. Furthermore, copper has high corrosion resistance, ensuring that the chamber will last for many years without rusting or deteriorating.

Copper Onion

An example of an expansion chamber that we carry is a copper onion, which is another type of expansion chamber. Copper is the perfect material for this application as it is an excellent conductor of heat. Additionally, copper has a high thermal conductivity, which allows it to react quickly to changes in temperature.

This means that it can heat up quickly and respond rapidly to changes in the heat source, making it a preferred material for distillers. If you are curious about our onion head, please check it out on our website at this link. Copper onions are known as an onion due to their shape resembling an onion, and more surface area can also contribute to passive reflux, which can assist in more proof. The expanded area can slow vapor speed down, which will overall help with better still behavior, and, some say, render a better-finished product.

Copper Helmet

The copper helmet is another component of a distillation apparatus that we provide. Its purpose is to trap any impurities that may be present in the alcohol vapor and prevent them from being condensed into the final product. The helmet is typically shaped like a cone, and the copper material is chosen for its excellent thermal conductivity and malleability. This allows the helmet to fit snugly onto the top of the still and create a tight seal, preventing any impurities from entering the final product.

Apart from its excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, copper also has antimicrobial properties. Copper surfaces naturally eliminate microorganisms, making them an ideal material for use in distilling equipment, where hygiene is paramount.

In addition to its functional properties, copper is also valued for its aesthetic appeal. The shiny, reddish-brown metal is a beautiful addition to any distillation apparatus, adding an elegant touch to an already beautiful process.

In conclusion, copper is an essential material in the distillation of alcohol. Its unique properties, including high thermal conductivity, malleability, corrosion resistance, and antimicrobial properties, make it an ideal choice for creating essential components such as the onion-shaped still, expansion chamber, and copper helmet.

Furthermore, its aesthetic appeal adds to the overall beauty of the distillation process. Copper has been and will continue to be a preferred material for distillers worldwide, ensuring that the tradition of distilling alcohol remains alive for generations to come.

If you are in need of or have any questions about the pieces you read about, reach out to Emily at emily@stilldragon.com or call 561-845-8009.