Plastic frame uncapping

Started by Kona Bob, January 03, 2017, 08:44:25 PM

Previous topic - Next topic

0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.

Kona Bob

Hi all
I have bought some 1 piece plastic frame / foundation sets to give a go in some honey supers. I thought they may hold up better with tangible extractor I use.
Question is will an electronic uncapping knife be to hot and melt the plastic frames. I didn't think about this before I ordered the plastic frames and I'm thinking for sure it will melt the plastic

Michael Bush

If you don't push the knife tight against the plastic it should be fine.  The honey will be cooling it if it's past boiling (100 C or 212 F).
My website:  bushfarms.com/bees.htm en espanol: bushfarms.com/es_bees.htm  auf deutsche: bushfarms.com/de_bees.htm  em portugues:  bushfarms.com/pt_bees.htm
My book:  ThePracticalBeekeeper.com
-------------------
"Everything works if you let it."--James "Big Boy" Medlin

Kona Bob


Acebird

I would try to avoid getting the sharp edge into the plastic.  I only had a few plastic combs when we got our first nuc and at that time I didn't have an uncapping knife.  I used a serrated carving knife and had no problem.  The bees should extend the cells a little so it should be easier than you think.  I am sure the heat will have no effect on the plastic.  You can always use a hive tool or scratcher.
Brian Cardinal
Just do it