A hybrid still is a combination of a pot still and a column still, which are often linked together with piping, and diverter valves. Turning on or off certain valves permits different process paths, with each path containing its own distillation properties.
Hybrid stills can be used to produce a variety of spirits from whiskey to vodka and gin. The versatility of these hybrid distilling systems has gained them wide popularity among the craft distilling community.
*The color configuration of our stills constitutes and is design of Boben Light Industry Machinery Equipment Co.,Ltd
TYPES | FEATURES |
Top Mounted Column Still | Suited for Brandy,Gin, and Singled Pass Whiskey |
Single Side Mounted Column Still | Suited for Vodka,Brandy,Gin, and Singled Pass Whiskey |
Multi Side Mounted Columns Still | Suited for Vodka,Brandy,Gin, and Singled Pass Whiskey |
1. Top Mounted Column Still
Suited for brandy,gin,stripping,and single pass whiskey
A 4 to 6 plate column can be mounted directly on top of the pot still in place of a spirit head. This is the most economical option for a hybrid still however, it does not allow the flexibility of bypassing the column as with a side mounted column.
2. Single Side Mounted Column Still
Suited for Vodka,Brandy,Gin, and Singled Pass Whiskey
A single side mounted column can be used for producing a variety of different spirits depending on the number of plates in the column. If you are producing vodka then a pot still with a single 30-40 plate column is the most efficient and economical method to create a neutral spirit. The column sits on a stand next to the pot with a gravity feed return line for the reflux that collects at the bottom of the column. Alternatively, the column can sit low to the ground and use a small return pump to return the reflux at the bottom of the column. If your building has low ceilings then see "multiple side mounted columns" below.
3. Multi Side Mounted Columns Still
Suited for Vodka,Brandy,Gin, and Singled Pass Whiskey
If your ceiling height is too low or you are wanting to have the versatility of multiple columns, then placing 2 or 3 columns on a stand beside the pot still is an option. Multiple columns are also much easier to access and observe from the ground when compared to single tall columns. It is important to note that, If you are running your spirit through all the columns in series, the efficiency of your still will decrease with each column added. In this respect, it is better to use a single column if possible.
Hybrid stills can be used to produce a variety of different spirits which is why they are becoming increasingly popular with craft distilleries. The ability to produce a neutral spirit and whiskey on a single still enables new distilleries to purchase the necessary equipment at a more affordable price, and still establish cash flow quickly while waiting for whiskey to age.
Hybrid stills also provide distillers with the opportunity to experiment with different spirits and techniques while developing new product lines.
