Simple Distillation: Water Cooling


 

Use wire clamps to secure the water supply hoses on the condenser.

The inner tube of the condenser is kept cool by a constant flow of cold water that flows through the outer water jacket. The cooling water originates from the cold water faucet on the laboratory benchtop and flows through a rubber hose before reaching the condenser. Water should always fill the condenser from the bottom up. That is, connect the water source tube to the lower of the two possible connections.

Attach the water supply hose to the faucet and place the top drain hose in the benchtop sink. Use the wire clips provided in your drawer to secure the hoses to the condenser.

Double check your apparatus to make sure the water supply and drainage hoses are free of kinks. Sharp bends in the hoses will restrict the flow of water causing a dangerous buildup of pressure.

Also remember to turn on the water gently at first to avoid a sudden buildup of pressure. Water should not rush out of the drainage hose but flow gently.