I ran across this video on you-tube a while back and have been using this method for several years. I use a 5 gallon nylon paint straining bag from the hardware store instead of a drawstring bag, but the rest is the same and it works GREAT! Check it out and let me know what you think or if you have any ways to improve it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHmoP2qqlj8
I do the same as you with cappings when extracting. I put more wax in. It actually holds the lid up until it starts to melt. I also made a clamp type device to squeeze the bag after removing it.
You'd like it works pretty well. I win keep a look out at yard sales for a large slow cooker.
Jim
I think the best and safest method is with steam generated by a wall paper stripper. No chance of fire. It is something you can walk away from once you know how long the water will last in the steamer.
For working within the limitations of the thread title - cleaning wax on a small-scale - I'd say this method is ideal. It cannot remove wax from frames, which is where solar, steam, and hot air melters excel, but - within it's limitations - a good idea. Thanks for posting.
LJ
Quote from: little john on June 05, 2017, 02:56:52 AM
For working within the limitations of the thread title - cleaning wax on a small-scale - I'd say this method is ideal.
I wouldn't consider a wall paper steamer a large scale operation. What makes the slow cooker not so ideal is after multiple uses you may get a build up of wax on the element part and may get ignition. I do use one myself but it is much smaller. It is more like a cup or two at a time. I even use a microwave for preheat. Both of these have a potential risk of fire. The steam does not. So IMO I rate the cooker as a good choice and the steam as an ideal choice.
I like this idea & will be also looking for a slow cooker. Thank you for sharing my friend, sharing ideas & new discoveries is what a good Forum is all about.
regards
FishermanAllen
I have a smaller on that I use to melt wax to dip plastic foundation in. Fill it mostly with water with about 1/2-1 inch of melted wax on top. Dip one end of plastic foundation, shake off extra wax, let cool, then repeat other side. It helps the bees draw out the foundation.
Cruse around the neighborhood for someone throwing out a hot water tank especially if there is hard water in your area. Go to Harbor Freight and pick up and angle grinder so you can cut the tank about two feet high. The elements might be burned out because of the lime in the tank ... maybe the top one is still good. The only thing that is required is to get a temperature sensor that will go to 150 degrees. Some are adjustable. Fill up the tank and through the frames right in. When the wax is melted pull out the frames they will already be coated with wax. You could use a thermometer and shut the take off when it gets over 150 if you can't find a temperature sensor that goes that high. The vessel is open so if the water boils who cares.