help with setting pans on evaporator

[nhdog]

I've been using old wood stoves to boil with but have just got a heavy metal 100 gal tank I'm going to turn into an arch. Before I start cutting and welding, what is the best way to set up for the the pans ?
Should they setup on the top on a frame holding them up , or set down into the fire box ? Or does it matter?

[Bucket Head]

The better way would be to have the pans "set on top" of the arch. When they "set in" the sides of your pans are exposed to the flame and sap ends up scorching and burning to the sides of it. You will make a little lighter syrup and the pans will be easier to clean with them on top.

Good luck with the new boiler!

[maple flats]

It's best to make a frame around the top to support the pan(s) with a gasket to seal where they mate. Then add insulation and fire brick to insulate so you lose less heat and thus put the most heat under the pan(s).

[nhdog]

Thanks folks! Just finished putting a new"sugar house" addition on to my wood shed and looking forward to next year all ready. Got a couple cord of wood cut up and split ready to go and will spend the summer getting the new arch built.

[maple flats]

You most likely know this, but just in case- Make sure you build it with the flames hitting the bottom of the pan, that gives way better heat transfer than a closed to for the pan to set on.