- A reflux still has an internal column with trays attached for the process to flow over and through. In the oil, gas and chemical industry--in which a reflux still is commonly used, the words "process" and "service" stand for any liquid or gas that flows through or inside of an object, whether it is a still, a pipe or a channel of any sort. A reflux still is an enabler of the reflux cycle, during which a product is converted to vapors and liquids and enriched and repeatedly re-distilled.
- A boiler creates distillate vapors. These are then allowed to rise up through the column in the reflux still. At the top of this column, the vapors are condensed. The condensed vapors now run back down the column as a liquid; as they come back down, they pass through other rising vapors. These rising vapors enrich this condensed liquid. Once the condensed liquids reach a lower level in the column, they then become hot enough to boil again. This creates more vapors and the process continues.
- Reflux stills conserve energy when compared to the older pot still method. They also make for a much stronger distillation. Because of the reflux flow, the product becomes much purer. Engineers are now able to design reflux stills with specified levels of purity and a continuous distillate flow.
- Reflux stills can be purchased and used by individuals in their homes. People use reflux stills to create their own alcoholic beverages, such as beers and liquors. These are sometimes called moonshine stills, and can be purchased at specialty stores or online from companies like Still Drinking, Home Distiller, Still Spirits and Mile Hi Distilling.
- Reflux stills can also be used to make your own ethanol for your vehicle, to purify your water and to make your own essential oils. (Follow the link in Resources for a step-by-step process for building your own reflux still for these purposes.)
