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Kevin Baker

Steam Distillation - Condensate not going through condenser

Dolores C Aquino  Follow

First of all, make absolutely sure that there is nothing blocking the path between the distillation flask and the final vent, and that all the joints are tight.

When beginning the distillation, you should be able to view the condensation line move up within the apparatus after the mixture begins to boil. If it moves up toward the thermometer, but then stops and never makes it up to the condenser, that might indicate that you need to insulate the apparatus above the distillation flask and up to the thermometer. Try wrapping it with glass wool and foil and see if that helps.

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H Stone  Follow
Completely erased the previous comment...I actually took a moment to look up glass wool...Going to give it a tryMore
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Glen Reese  Follow
Well, that was it. Wrapped insulation and aluminum foil around the tops of the claisen adapter and it was all good. Thanks iad22agp.More
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