Methanol Boiling Point: Its Importance in Alcohol Distillation

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ByThe Brew Mechanic
methanol boiling point is 64.7°C (148.5°F)

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Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol,  is the nasty stuff that you get when distilling alcohol. Understanding the methanol boiling point (64.7°C) is crucial for various professionals, from chemical manufacturers to fuel producers, and especially for us distillers of alcoholic beverages.

We have all heard of methanol poisoning which is when methanol mixes into the hearts cut. It can cause blindness and also high consumption can possibly lead to death.

Basically, we want the methanol and ethanol to be separate. Period! 

We explain the reason for the methanol boiling point 64.7°C (148.5°F) and the importance of separating it during the cuts.

The methanol boiling point basics

At standard pressure, pure methanol boils at 64.7°C (148.5°F). This means, that when heated to this temperature, methanol transitions from a liquid to a gas.

Boiling points can change based on pressure and the presence of other substances. But the difference is so subtle that you need to make sure you boil off the methanol into the foreshots and heads then toss it. No questions asked. 

Why Does Methanol’s Boiling Point Matter in Distillation?

We know Methanol, also called wood alcohol, is a toxic substance. While small amounts might not induce immediate harm like orange juice.

But exposure to methanol and ingesting larger quantities can lead to blindness, organ damage, or even death.

First thing make sure the methanol boils over at 64.7°C (148.5°F).

The key challenge lies in that both methanol and ethanol are present in fermented liquids, the starting point for most distillation processes. While their chemical structures are similar, their boiling points differ.

Once you pass that boiling point and get to 78.3°C (173.1°F) then ethanol (ethyl alcohol) is made.

That is why we HIGHLY recommend starting with the sugar wash and reflux distilling first. As there is no chance of getting methanol is this method as it CAN NOT be chemically produced due to no pectin. 

The cuts temperature chart is below:

Acetone – Foreshots56.6°C or 133.8°F
Methanol – Foreshots   64°C or 147.2°F  
Ethyl Acetate – Heads77.1°C or 170.8°F
Ethanol Range – Hearts 78.3 > 81.5°C or 172.9 > 178.7°F
2 Proponal – Tails82°C or 179.6°F
1 Proponal – Tails97°C or 206.6°F
Fuesel oils – Tails 94 > 95°C or 201.2 > 203°F

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Methanol and ethanol In spirit production:

Like with anything, you need to understand the different boiling points in the distillation process to get our desired alcohol! Woohoo.

During the distillation by heating the fermented liquid the undesirables come out first as they have lower boiling points. 

Distillation utilises the boiling point difference to separate ethanol from unwanted elements like methanol.

Heating fermented liquids evaporate ethanol first, carrying some water.

This vapour is condensed to create a more concentrated ethanol solution.

It’s not simply “heat and collect.”

Methanol’s lower boiling point means it can mix with ethanol in its early stages (the “heads”), which are highly toxic and must be discarded.

Only later (“heart” fraction) does the desired ethanol collect, also remember not to include the tails. 

The cuts chart is here again for you to understand.

Acetone – Foreshots56.6°C or 133.8°F
Methanol – Foreshots   64°C or 147.2°F  
Ethyl Acetate – Heads77.1°C or 170.8°F
Ethanol Range – Hearts 78.3 > 81.5°C or 172.9 > 178.7°F
2 Proponal – Tails82°C or 179.6°F
1 Proponal – Tails97°C or 206.6°F
Fuesel oils – Tails 94 > 95°C or 201.2 > 203°F

The Key points about the properties of methanol:

The methanol boiling point plays a critical role in distillation:

Methanol is produced and boils at 64.7°C (148.5°F), while ethanol (drinking alcohol) boils at 78.3°C (173.1°F). 

Safety Protocols: Given its volatility and toxicity, understanding methanol’s boiling point is crucial for implementing safety measures in handling and storage.

“Foreshots” in Distillation: Methanol is removed early in the distillation process in a fraction/cut known as the “foreshots,” which is discarded plus for safety remove the heads too!

Understanding the boiling points and cuts very well. 

Remember: The methanol boiling point of 64.7°C (148.5°F) is a critical parameter for both the safety and quality of distilled products and industrial processes.

Last Updated on Feb 15, 2024 by The Brew Mechanic

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With 35 years of knowledge of being a chemical engineer in alcohol manufacturing plants, my mission is to teach the next generation of home distilling alcohol brewers at a supernatural speed.

My reviews are based on real-life experiences with reflux stills, sugar wash, troubleshooting and mystical chemical reactions.

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