new pans, what to expect?

[JSEDLAK]

Hey guys this is my second year and I am hooked. I managed to score twin 5' x 6' stainless leader pans., from the classifieds on here. The pans are broken up into channels so the sap zigzags through them. I plan on connecting the pans to make one "continuous" flow pan. We are in the process of designing the arch, it's going to be all metal. I was planning on 100 taps this year, but not sure if that'll be enough to run this size pan effectively. Any input?

[spencer11]

if they are flat pans 100 taps would work but the more the better...to a certain point that is. you might have to wait till a good 2 day run to have enough to make boiling worth the time

[maple flats]

If you have 2 pans 5' x 6' each, even with flat (syrup) pans you want more than 100 taps. If that is all you can get, I'd only run 1 pan and extend the arch after you grow a little. The problem would not be how long you would boil, but how much sap you will need for your 1st boil to sweeten the pan(s). That should boil between 30-40 gph with a good fire. You will want at least 120 gal sap before the first boil. If you run both pans, double that. Early in the season, you will be hard pressed to get 120 gal sap before it starts to spoil for the first boil. After that you can add less, but each time you heat and cool the sap it gets darker. In the middle of the season when the sap really starts running you could easily run both pans, the issue is boiling long enough at the beginning of the season to have enough sweet to help protect the pans from freezing.

[JSEDLAK]

I can get more out if i need to, I only say 100 because I am collecting by hand and, well, after 100 I will really have to start to work to get it out of the woods. Bottom line is if i have to run 200 taps it isn't going to break my heart.