Moonshiners often use a combination of flour and water to seal the seams of their stills. This simple and inexpensive method has been used for generations, as it effectively prevents alcohol vapor from escaping through any leaks in the equipment.
When it comes to distilling, one of the biggest challenges is ensuring that the alcohol vapor is contained within the still. Any leaks or openings in the equipment can lead to a loss of the precious vapor, reducing the overall yield of the distillation process. This is where the flour and water mixture comes in handy.
To seal the seams, moonshiners create a paste by mixing flour and water together. The consistency of the paste should be thick enough to adhere to the surfaces but also pliable enough to be molded into the desired shape. The mixture is then applied to the seams where the different parts of the still meet, such as the onion head to the pot or the pot to the column.
Applying the flour and water paste requires a bit of finesse. Moonshiners carefully spread the mixture along the seams, ensuring that it covers any potential leaks. The paste should be evenly applied and pressed firmly onto the surfaces to create a tight seal. It is important to be thorough and meticulous in this process to prevent any vapor from escaping.
Once the paste is applied, it needs time to dry and harden. This can take several hours or even overnight, depending on the humidity and temperature of the surroundings. Moonshiners often leave their stills undisturbed during this drying period to allow the seal to set properly.
The flour and water mixture is an effective sealing method because it hardens as it dries, creating a tight barrier against any leaks. It can withstand the heat generated during the distillation process and remains intact, preventing the loss of alcohol vapor. Additionally, this method is readily available and cost-effective, making it a popular choice among moonshiners.
While flour and water are the most common ingredients used, some moonshiners may also add other substances to the mixture to enhance its sealing properties. For example, some may incorporate cornmeal or sugar into the paste to improve its durability and adhesion. These additions can provide extra strength to the seal and ensure a more secure distillation process.
Moonshiners use a mixture of flour and water to seal the seams of their stills. This method is effective in preventing the escape of alcohol vapor and is a cost-effective solution for maintaining a tight seal. By carefully applying and allowing the paste to dry and harden, moonshiners can ensure that their distillation process is efficient and productive.