constant flow pan

[bobie]

hi all
first post! i am looking to modify my 2x4 flat pan to a constant flow pan. do the dividers need to be fully welded or just tacked?
is the a recommended space between dividers? i was thinking of doing 2-3' dividers and using the remaining foot as a "syrup pan. maybe do 2 6" channels x 2' any thoughts?

thanks

[Bricklayer]

They can be bent and tacked, sugar will plug the cracks if they aren't gaping holes. My pan has 3 equal compartments each at 8" wide. I have no trouble making and drawing syrup off right from the pan. I don't think adding dividers to resemble a "syrup pan" would benefit or make it any more efficient. With my flat pan when I'm right at the draw off point I fire it heavier and place the wood to sit right under the draw off side. This seems to prolong my draw offs.

[bobie]

OK perfect. Thanks. So you recommend the 4' dividers.
Is there a magic number or is 2 dividers good?
Thanks again

[maple flats]

With 3 dividers you will get a longer flow path, thus it will work better, but 2 dividers will work better than no dividers. The longer the flow path, the easier it is to get a smooth gradient. Then you can more easily draw syrup off while adding more sap at the inlet end. Dividers will help make lighter syrup.

[bobie]

sounds good. that should be a nice fall project! we'll see how it works
thanks again