filter press

[SadSams]

I was on a major suppliers web site and saw a 7'' short bank filter press with motor and pump. Does anybody use one and if so how does it compare to any of the others with more capacity? Does the syrup come out as clear as the units with more banks?

[Thompson's Tree Farm]

For 400 taps, a short bank will be fine.

[vtmapleman]

I have 1200 taps and use a short bank - no problem - with a full bank press you do not need to replace the filters as often. The syrup only goes one of the banks no matter what size press you have.

[SadSams]

Thats good to know. I've never seen the insise of a press. I just imagined the syrup being forced through all the banks and getting clearer as it comes out the other end. I'm going to Anderson's open house next saturday so i'll tear into on there if they will let me. Thanks guys.

[tuckermtn]

I agree with vtmapleman- I have a short bank and 1150 taps- did 520 gals through it last season with zero issues.

[wiam]

I have a 7" that I have put over 400 gallons through the last 2 years. I have 2 pieces of pipe to fit over the rods so I can run less plates when I do not need all of them.

[northwoods_forestry]

I run a 7" short press too. I'm curious how much syrup others get through between cleanings. I average about 5 gallons. Also, do others put it through all at once (I do) or in increments? I've had problems with the press cooling off and jamming up if I try to run multiple batches through.

[Thompson's Tree Farm]

You need to keep the press hot, or at least warm. If you shine a heat bulb on it between pressings, it may stay warm enough. With a full bank, 7" press and early season syrup, I have gotten as much as 70 gallons through. Late season, as little as 5 gallons.

[tuckermtn]

I typically do between 25 to 30 gallons per pressing. Could go more but didn't have enough canner till this summer. Never had a paper blow or even had the pressure tick up at all.