Self-propelled machine Highspirit automaton It is a complex distillation system, where the key element is an electronic control unit that regulates the supply of steam and temperature in the column. Unlike classic models, where distillation is controlled visually by the thermometer and the tap, here the entire process is automated, which requires the user to understand the logic of the controller and the correct setting of the modes. Errors in the assembly or initial calibration of sensors can lead to incorrect operation of automation, the release of braga into the deflegmator or the production of a low quality product with fusel oils.
Brand engineers HighSpirit We have put algorithms into the device to minimize the impact of the human factor on the quality of distillation. The device independently monitors the temperature in the cube and column, adjusting the heating power to maintain the specified parameters of the phlegm number. This is especially true when working with large volumes of raw materials, where manual control becomes a time-consuming and not always effective process. However, despite the high degree of automation, the operator must clearly know the structure of the nodes in order to intervene in the process in time in case of emergency situations.
Structurally, the installation is based on a stainless tank with a volume of 30 liters, which is equipped with a tsarga, deflegmator and electronically controlled selection unit. Key difference The automatic series is the presence of a digital display and a valve system that opens and closes at the command of the controller. Understanding how, exactly, Electronics interact with heating elements TEN, allows the operator to achieve maximum strength of raw alcohol or purity of rectification without constant presence at the device.
Design features and the principle of operation of automation
At the core of functioning Highspirit automaton The principle of separation of liquids into fractions due to the difference in boiling temperatures, reinforced by precise electronic control. The system reads readings from thermosensors located in different nodes of the column, and in real time adjusts the power supplied to the TEN. This avoids choking the column, a common problem where steam pushes the liquid upwards, preventing it from draining back into the cube.
- 🔍 The electronic control unit processes data from temperature sensors every few seconds, ensuring smooth adjustment.
- ⚙️ The selection unit is equipped with an electromagnetic valve that opens strictly on a timer or when a certain temperature is reached in the head of the column.
- 🌡️ The deflegmator has an adjustable cooling system, which allows you to adjust the amount of returned phlegm in the column.
It is important to note that automation does not replace a full understanding of the physicochemical processes of distillation. Controller It only executes the program, but its effectiveness directly depends on the correctness of the initial settings and tightness of the connections. If there is an air suction or steam leakage in the system, the sensor readings will be distorted and the automation will make the wrong decision to increase or decrease power.
⚠️ Attention: Before the first inclusion, be sure to check the reliability of the attachment of all clamps and the tightness of the gaskets. The operation of automation during depressurization of the system can lead to the release of hot steam and burns.
Many users underestimate the role of the phlegmIt is supported by software in automatic systems. This is the ratio of the amount of condensate returned to the column to the amount of product taken. In the machines. highspirit This parameter is critical for the separation of "heads", "body" and "tails". Incorrectly configuring this parameter in the controller menu will lead to the fact that harmful impurities fall into the selection, spoiling the taste and safety of the final product.
Main models and technical specifications
Equipment line HighSpirit includes several modifications, differing in the cube volume, the power of the TEN and the functionality of the electronic unit. The choice of a particular model depends on the planned volumes of processing of raw materials and the requirements for the purity of the final product. Basic versions can have a simplified logic of operation, while top-end configurations are equipped with advanced faction separation algorithms.
Below is a comparative table of the main technical characteristics of popular modifications of the device, which will help determine the choice of equipment for specific tasks:
| Parameter | Model Base 30 | Model Pro 50 | Premium Auto Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volume of cube (l) | 30 | 50 | 50-75 |
| Power TEN (kW) | 3.0 | 4.5 | 6.0 |
| Type of management | Basic automation | Digital controller | Smart system with Wi-Fi |
| Tsarga material | Nerzh. AISI 304 steel | Nerzh. AISI 304 steel | Copper + Nerge. steel |
Model Premium Auto It is distinguished by the presence of copper elements in the tsarga, which contributes to more effective removal of sulfur compounds from vapor. Copper reacts with sulfides, forming insoluble compounds that remain in the cube or settle on the nozzle. This is especially important in the processing of grain and fruit brags rich in protein compounds.
When choosing the power of the TEN, the throughput of the column should be taken into account. Too much heat for a narrow tsarga will lead to choking, even if the automation will try to regulate the process. Optimal ratio power is considered to allow the pairs to rise at a speed not exceeding the critical for the selected pipe diameter. In models highspirit This balance has already been taken into account by engineers, but when replacing regular TENs with more powerful similar calculations are required.
Step-by-step instructions for the first launch
First launch moonshine machine Highspirit Automatic requires careful preparation and adherence to the sequence of actions. Violation of the order of operations can lead to breakdown of electronics or damage to seals. Before starting the process, you need to make sure that all components are assembled according to the scheme, and the electrical network will withstand the load of the connected equipment.
☑️ Checklist before launch
Start by filling the distillation cube with prepared raw materials. The liquid level should not exceed 75-80% of the total volume to leave space for foaming and combined cycle cushion. After installing the cube on the heating platform or turning on the built-in thermal power, connect the cooling system. Water must be supplied to the deflegmator and refrigerator. before the start of heating, otherwise the pair can escape into the atmosphere without condensing.
Next, turn on the electronic control unit and select the mode of operation. For the first run, a "Wash" mode or simple distillation without fraction selection is often recommended to check the tightness and operation of the automation idle or on water. The display will display the current temperatures; make sure the sensors respond to changing conditions (e.g., when the cube is heated, the readings should rise).
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to include heating if the cube is empty or the liquid level is below the minimum TEN mark. This will cause the heating elements to burn out instantly.
During heating, monitor the pressure readings (if there is a pressure gauge) and the temperature in the column. When the boiling point of the main fraction is reached, the automation must stabilize the process. If there is a sharp jump in temperature or pressure, immediately reduce power manually or use the emergency stop button.
Configuring distillation and fraction selection modes
The quality of the alcohol obtained directly depends on the correctness of the division into fractions. The apparatus. Highspirit automaton It allows you to program the selection of "heads", "body" and "tails" based on temperature or volume. “Heads” is a light fraction containing acetone and methyl alcohol, which must be removed first.
- 🧪 The selection of "heads" is usually 5-10% of the volume of absolute alcohol in the raw material; automation can cut them off by temperature or time.
- 💧 The main body is selected at a stable temperature characteristic of ethanol (78-82 ° C depending on pressure).
- 🛑 The appearance of "tails" is fixed by the increase in temperature in the cube and the change in smell; automation blocks the selection or switches the flow to the waste container.
In the controller menu highspirit You can set the fraction of the selection. The more precisely configured this parameter, the cleaner the product will be, but the process will take longer. Experienced users recommend adjusting the device to a slower selection of the "body" to ensure high-quality separation of substances in the column. The rush in this process negates all the benefits of an automated system.
Subtleties of cut-off temperature settings
The temperature of the tail cutoff depends on the strength of the alcohol in the cube. For water, it is 100°C, but for braga or raw alcohol, the cut-off point will be lower. It is recommended to empirically choose a value at which there is no fusel odor in the stream, but the output of the product is maximum.
Use of the function Auto-Cut (automatic cutoff) requires precalibration. If the temperature sensor is installed incorrectly or contaminated, the automation can cut off the useful product too early or, conversely, miss harmful impurities. Regular check of sensor readings with the reference thermometer will help maintain high accuracy of the system.
Maintenance and typical malfunctions
Regular maintenance extends service life moonshine machine Highspirit Automatic It guarantees stable quality of the product. After each distillation, it is necessary to wash the cube and column with water, removing the remains of braga and barda. Particular attention should be paid to the condition of sealing gaskets and silicone hoses, which lose elasticity over time.
Among the typical faults, users often distinguish problems with tightness and sensor errors. If the device does not hold pressure or poisons steam, check the tightening of the clamps and the integrity of the gaskets. In some cases, it is necessary to replace seals with new ones made of food silicone or fluoroplast.
To extend the service life of TEN, it is recommended to clean up citric acid scale after every 3-4 distillations. This will improve heat transfer and reduce energy consumption.
If the error code is displayed on the display, refer to the user's instructions. Often the problems are associated with overheating of the TEH or a break in the chain of the temperature sensor. Diagnostics In such cases, it begins with checking the electrical contacts and the integrity of the wires. Don’t ignore the automatic signals, as they prevent more serious hardware breakdowns.
⚠️ Attention: All maintenance and repair of the electrical part is carried out only after the complete disconnection of the device from the network and cooling of the heating elements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you use a moonshine machine Highspirit Automatic for distilling fruits without prior braga?
No, the machine is designed to distill liquids. Solid fruits must be pre-processed into juice or put on their basis bragu. The entry of solid particles into the cube can lead to burnout and damage to the TEN.
How often should I change the column?
With regular use and proper washing after each cycle, a metal nozzle (SPN or rings) lasts for years. Replacement is required only in the event of mechanical damage or severe corrosion (if the material does not meet the requirements).
What if the automatic does not turn off the heating when boiling?
The device must be manually disabled immediately. The probable cause is a malfunction of the temperature sensor or control unit. Requires electronics diagnostics and replacement of the failed component.
Can the machine be upgraded by installing a more powerful TEN?
Theoretically, it can, but it can upset the balance of the column and lead to choking. In addition, the replacement of TEN by a non-original one may result in a denial of warranty service. It is recommended to consult the manufacturer before upgrading.