A honey extractor is a device that is actively used in apiaries. In small farms that do not produce much honey, beekeepers can do without this device. However, in large apiaries, life without such a device will be more difficult. For the use of a device to be effective, it is important to choose the right type. It is also necessary to understand exactly how a honey extractor works.
Operating principle of a honey extractor
The device is a large tank in which cassettes are fixed. The beekeeper pulls out honeycombs from the hive, which are filled with honey. At the same time, they are at least 2/3 sealed by bees.The beekeeper uses a special fork or knife to open the bar. After which he places the prepared frames in the drum.
Under the influence of a manual or electric drive, the rotation of the cassettes begins. This begins a process that resembles centrifugation. Under the influence of significant centrifugal force, the product is released from the printed cells. At the same time, it flows down the walls and fills a special collection tank. The bottom of the container is equipped with a hole, which makes it possible to pour the beekeeping product into any container.
Types of designs
Honey extractors differ in types. As a rule, they are classified according to the following criteria:
- material of manufacture;
- design;
- type of drive;
- number of frames.
The structure is made of materials such as wood, stainless steel, aluminum. The structure is also made of food-grade plastic.
If we talk about design features, honey extractors are divided into several types depending on the placement of the cassettes. Based on this feature, radial and chordial reverse structures are distinguished.
Cassette location
According to the placement of cassettes for fastening the frames of the honey extractor, there are radial and chordial. The first type has a drum structure in which the cassettes are placed along a radius. This structure has the following advantages:
- large frame capacity;
- direction of centrifugal force on the bar;
- no need to turn the frame over to the other side;
- almost complete drying of honey from the honeycomb.
The disadvantages of the structure include the high price and massive size. Therefore, the structure is difficult to transport.
The chordial honey extractor is characterized by its smaller size.It is also distinguished by a special drum design, in which the honeycombs in cassettes are attached along a chord in relation to the rotation mechanism. The advantages of chordial structures include the following:
- small sizes;
- minimum weight;
- low price.
At the same time, the chordial design also has certain disadvantages. First of all, you can put no more than 1-4 frames in it. During unwinding, centrifugal force affects the side. This often leads to cell disconnection.
type of drive
Depending on the type of drive, honey extractors are manual or electric. The first type is set in motion by a special handle that rotates the drum. The device is inexpensive, but requires physical effort. In addition, it is difficult to control the rotation speed in a hand-held device.
The electric honey extractor operates from the mains. It is equipped with an electric motor, but can also be powered by a battery or solar energy. The device is characterized by fast operation. When using it, it is possible to control the number and speed of revolutions. This helps avoid damage to the cells.
Models
Honey extractors differ in types. The most well-known types of devices include:
- Granovsky honey extractor. The device can operate manually or electrically. The body and elements are made of stainless steel. The device is available in different modifications, which differ in the number of frames.
- Honey extractor Lungwort. This is the most famous variety. Such devices are distinguished by impeccable quality and affordable cost. The range includes both radial and chordial models.
- Honey extractor Lyson. This is a Polish device for pumping out honey.It has an optimal price-quality ratio. The advantages of the device include ease of maintenance and ease of use.
Pumping procedure
To pump out honey, it is important to set the frames correctly. For effective operation, it is recommended to consider the following:
- Place the device on a flat surface to prevent it from falling when rotating.
- Do not set the speed very high on the first boot. This will damage the device and rupture the cells.
- If there is a small pocket for honey, use special filters before pouring into the container. This will help prevent debris from getting into the mass.
- Dry the cassettes and wash the tank after pumping.
- Open the cells before loading. This is done with a special fork or knife.
A honey extractor is an effective device that is used for pumping out honey. Today there is a wide selection of such devices on sale, each of which has its own pros and cons.
