This system works with a double boiler in which it is bathed in water. The still has an exhaust tube to release the excessive pressure generated in the external chamber. As the external boiler contains water, it is necessary to monitor its temperature and at the end of each distillation, the existing water level must be checked, as it is necessary to replace the amount of water that has evaporated. The double chamber system prevents direct contact of the materials being distilled with the heat source, avoiding the risk of burning and providing a uniform and constant temperature, essential for the distillation process and obtaining a clean and pure distillate.
During the distillation process, the temperature and level of the water present in the external chamber must be constantly monitored, preventing the still from running out of the amount of water necessary to carry out the distillation (¾ of the capacity of the external chamber). The Banho-Maria Alembic has a large discharge pipe in the internal chamber, which aims to assist the distiller's task, as well as two plugs in the external chamber, one in the upper part, for inserting water and another in the lower part, for discharging it. . The swan neck was placed at the top of the device, at the highest point of the distillation, in order to increase the purity of the distillate. The copper used in the construction of these stills is thicker and an excellent conductor capable of withstanding the pressure generated in the external chamber of the still. Furthermore, the still is welded with brass solder, in order to reinforce the joints.
Precautions: Take all precautions when using this still, which must not be neglected, and constantly monitor the temperature, so that there is no danger of creating excessive pressure capable of boosting the external chamber. There must be some pressure inside this external chamber, but not too much, so the distiller must make sure that the water is not boiling uncontrollably, otherwise the excessive pressure created could cause the still to explode, which could result in damage and burns to objects and people around you. Also pay attention to the hot vapors released from the exhaust pipe opening, as these can also cause burns.