Q&A for How to Make an Airlock for Wine and Beer Production

A sanitary piece of aluminum foil crimped over the top, or even a plastic baggy with a rubber band on the outside (either use a new roll/box or pour some of your favorite high proof liquor on it just to be sure) should do the trick.

Yes, it would. Years ago they placed the expiratory circuit on a mechanical ventilator in a flask of water for the same reason.

To make sure the rifle cartridge stays securely attached to the pen tube, use a strong adhesive like epoxy or super glue designed for metal bonding. Clean the inside of the cartridge with alcohol or a degreaser to remove any dirt or oil, and lightly sand the interior to improve adhesion. Test-fit the pen tube to ensure a snug fit, and if it’s loose, wrap the tube with thin tape or use additional adhesive to fill gaps. Apply the adhesive evenly along the tube and insert it into the cartridge, making sure it sits securely. Hold or clamp the pieces together until the adhesive cures fully according to the instructions.

It depends on your application. Super glue is effective for small, quick fixes on non-flexible surfaces, but epoxy is stronger and more durable, especially for handling heat, moisture, or pressure. If you need a strong, long-lasting bond, epoxy is usually the better choice.

You can use a small airtight container, a plastic or glass jar with a lid, a travel pill case, or a resealable bag as a substitute for a pill bottle. Make sure it keeps the pills dry, safe, and easy to access.

The water is typically used to cool or condense vapor, especially in devices like stills. In a still, water helps cool the vapor, turning it back into liquid form. If there's no vapor lock, it might appear cosmetic, but it often prevents overheating or aids in condensation. If it seems mostly cosmetic, it might not serve a functional role beyond appearance.

It's generally not recommended to use a plastic lid instead of a cork, especially for items needing to be airtight or involving heat. Cork seals better and is more heat-resistant, while plastic may not form as tight a seal or handle heat as well. If it's not involving heat, like a storage container, plastic might work, but for things like a still, it's better to use materials that are more heat-resistant and seal properly.

Yes, you can braze the lid, pipes, and fittings instead of soldering them. Brazing creates a stronger joint and can handle higher temperatures. Just make sure you use food-safe materials, like silver-based brazing rods, and avoid anything with lead or other toxic metals. Ensure the connections are airtight to prevent leaks.

Yes, you can use a rubber stopper, silicone lid, wooden plug, or metal lid with gasket as alternatives to a cork. Ensure the chosen option forms a tight, secure seal to prevent leaks.

You can use a small glass jar with a tight lid, an airtight plastic container, a small aluminum can, a small Tupperware, or an empty spice container as alternatives.

A plastic bag and rubber band can work in a pinch, but it won't provide the best seal, especially if you need it to be airtight or heat-resistant. For a more secure and durable seal, it's better to use a cork, stopper, or silicone lid.

The simplest airlock is typically a small tube or straw submerged in water. It allows gases to escape by bubbling out into the water, preventing air from entering and keeping fermenting liquids safe from contaminants. You can easily make one with basic materials.

The need for an opening in the bullet, foil, or plastic bag depends on their use. A bullet is typically sealed, while foil can be left open or sealed at the top. A plastic bag usually has an opening unless it's sealed shut. If you need air or gases to escape, there should generally be an opening at the top.

The rifle shell doesn't float because it is heavier than water and is designed to stay in place. The casing is made of metal, typically brass, which has a higher density than water, allowing it to sink. When the shell is inside the firearm, it is held securely in the chamber, preventing it from moving.

Airlocks for wine are typically made from plastic, rubber, glass, and silicone. Plastic, such as food-safe polypropylene or PVC, is the most common due to its durability and ease of cleaning. Rubber is often used for gaskets or seals, glass can be found in some "three-piece" designs for durability, and silicone is used for flexibility and durability in seals or structures. These materials are non-reactive and easy to sanitize.