Beekeepers around the world are familiar with the use of Langstroth beehives, famous for efficient beekeeping and honey production. These hives incorporate beehive frames made from wood, providing a sturdy structure for the bees to build their combs. To expedite the process of comb construction and ensure uniform cell size, many beekeepers opt to add foundation wax sheets to their beehive frames. By using a beeswax foundation press, beekeepers can effortlessly fabricate their foundation sheets using beeswax. This article will introduce how to make foundation sheets, and how to use beeswax foundation press.

What is the Beeswax Foundation Press

The beeswax foundation press serves as an important tool for producing beehive frame foundation sheets. This equipment entails pouring molten wax onto a designated area, followed by pressing it between two plates. Imprinted on these plates are patterns of cells that impart a predetermined cell size on the resulting sheet of wax.  

How to use the Beeswax Foundation Press

Using a beeswax foundation press is a simple process that can improve beekeeping. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Clean the Press:

Begin by thoroughly cleaning the foundation press, and removing any residual wax and dust. It is advisable to clean the press immediately after use, facilitating easier cleaning for future utilization.

2. Apply Water and Detergent:

Use a hand spray can to apply a mixture of water and a small amount of detergent onto the plates of the foundation press. This coating prevents the wax sheet from adhering to the plates, facilitating its removal in subsequent steps.

3. Pour Wax:

Pour an ample amount of wax onto the stationary bottom plate of the foundation press, using a sturdy plastic cup or a suitable container. Avoid using iron or brass, as these materials are incompatible with wax. Ensure that the wax quantity is sufficient, allowing for some excess wax to overflow. This guarantees that the resulting foundation sheet will be uniform in size.

4. Lower the Moving Plate:

After pouring the wax, carefully lower the moving plate of the press, positioning it on top of the bottom plate. The two plates will enclose the wax, creating pressure that extrudes any trapped air. At this stage, some wax may seep out of the press. Apply firm pressure to ensure an even thickness for the foundation sheet.

5. Scrape Off Wax Spills:

Remove any excess wax that has spilled over from the foundation press and return it to the boiler for reuse.

6. Separate the Foundation Sheet: 

Use an air blower to create a gap between the upper plate of the foundation press and the pressed wax sheet. Direct the airflow between the sheet and the plate, facilitating separation. Gradually lift the sheet to prevent any sections from reattaching to the press plate.

7. Separate from the Bottom Plate:

Use the air blower to separate the foundation sheet from the bottom plate of the press. As you proceed, lift the sheet to prevent reattachment and ensure a clean separation.

8. Trim Excess Sheet:

Place the foundation sheet on a flat surface and trim off any excess using a suitable cutting tool. Return the excess wax to the boiler for reuse.

Tips for Optimal Results

– Dilute the detergent in the spray water to a minimal amount, ensuring its effectiveness without compromising the wax quality. – In the absence of an air blower and compressor, an edged tool can be employed to pry the foundation sheet from the press. However, exercise caution to avoid leaving impressions or marks on the sheet. – To achieve superior results, consider elongating one or two hinges of the foundation press to project from the upper press plate. This extension serves as a handle, facilitating firm pressure application once the wax has been poured into the press. – Expedite the trimming process by using a block of wood or metal that matches the desired size of the foundation sheets. Place the block on the finished sheet and swiftly cut off any excess foundation material. Beeswax foundation press can help beekeepers make high-quality beeswax foundation sheets. Inquiry now!