Condensers

Shell and tube condensers have largely replaced traditional worm tub condensers in the industry. They have a more compact design and are easier to repair and replace. The cooling duty doesn’t change between the worm tub and shell and tube but the water circulation flow rate will. Generally speaking worm tubs require larger water flow rates than shell and tubes do. This is because the shell and tube design permits a closer matching cooling curve without compromising spirit outlet temperature.

Worm tubs are still in use at several distilleries but have largely been replaced by shell and tube designs. This is the traditional way of spirit condensation and is typically what you would see on the end of an old illicit still. Some distillers maintain that the type of condenser used affects the characteristics of the spirit produced.