First Boil With New (to me) Evaporator

[treehugger]

Well I have to learn the querks of this unit, but doing pretty good so far. I am estimating a 30 gal/ hr evap rate. I was hoping for more but definitely alot better than that old halfpint I had.

[mike z]

Where'd you get that copper job?

[treehugger]

I got lucky and found 1 in crown point new york

[treehugger]

I have some questions. I boiled for the first time on my evaporator. It has reverse flow And I tried using it but I don't think I did it the best way. I'm used to batch boiling. I found some possible efficiency problems and I would like opinions please. Number 1 what is the best levels for a sap in the flue pan in the syrup andpan sap pan for best boil rates? Number 2 when is the best time to draw of syrup pan contents? Number 3 when is the best time to start shutting down in regards to remaining sap. Just outta curiosity with a 2 by 6 evaporator, how much unfinished syrup should I have left at the end to finish? I appreciate any help thank you.