James,
Just a quick note. [In his article on home chemistry,] RPM suggests acquiring some Pyrex measuring cups and bowls for handling hot liquids & mixtures. Pyrex is no longer made from the low thermal expansion Borosilicate laboratory glass. The trademark name was sold to a Chinese firm and the glassware is now made from regular soda lime glass [you can tell from it’s bluish tint] – and may shatter from rapid changes in temperature.
People around the country are being injured from the “new” Pyrex as it literally explodes on their stovetops. This is corporate greed at it’s finest! – Glassblower in Colorado
Dear Mr. Rawles:
Having read the article “Some Home Chemistry Tricks of the Trade, by RPM” I thought I’d add my two bits worth to the conversation. This is not meant to be a critique of the article but a bit more information on the application of stills. When talking of stills, most people will assume “alcohol” and in that application, the rendering of spirits can be dangerous and deadly if not done in a safe manner. This means a proper container to start with… IMHO the use of a Juice can will not cut it, nor an open flame to “cook” it with. At a minimum a converted pressure cooker should be employed as a means to boil off the alcohol (cook the mash) and the collection and containment of the vapours must be absolutely leak proof. Anything less is a recipe for disaster. I would direct your readers to this site. The site contains valuable information in the art of spirit making. Thank you for producing a great site. Sincerely, – Jim K.