How to use ALL of a cone filter

[pobryan]

Maybe I should have titled this "How we use all of a cone filter". I'm sure others have their methods, here is ours:
When you dump a gallon of syrup in a cone filter it all tries to go to the bottom so naturally the bottom plugs up first so the filter starts to back up. You only get to use maybe the bottom 3.5 inches then you need to pull a pre-filter. My 8 quart cone filters are 16" high.
A cone filter is what mathematicians call a Frustum because the bottom doesn't really come to a point like a true cone. Online there are calculators that give the area of a Frustum. Turns out a cone filter has about 490 sq.in. Which is more than a 16x24 flat filter (384sq.in).
So, for the last 3 years we have been using our cone filter in the shape of a sailor's hat. This makes the filter only about 7" deep but makes a LOT more of the filter available to filter. I can typically filter 1.5 gallons per pre-filter and when I take out the pre-filter it is empty and dirty from top to bottom.
Obviously you can't just fold a cone filter into a sailor's hat because it won't hold its shape when you pour in a bucket of hot syrup. We fabricated a rack that fits in my filter tank. A side benefit is that I can now filter over 5 gallons before the syrup is up to the bottom of the filter.
I will try to upload a video and some photos.
We are also making the racks that are all stainless steel and TIG welded. They will fit any size tank or pot.
Pat




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[psparr]

That's brilliant.

[mspina14]

I'm trying to envision in my head what the rack looks like.

Do you have to cut the filter to get it into the shape of a sailor's hat?


Mark

[psparr]

I'm guessing you just pull the bottom up like you'd be turning it inside out.

[pobryan]

Yes, no need to cut the filter. I thought I had some photos of the finished rack but I don't. I'll get some. I have some video but apparently I can't upload it from my computer, it has to go through YouTube, etc.
Basically the rack is a circle with 2 "W"s perpendicular to each other. OK, I know that doesn't make much sense. I'll gat a photo but right now it is time to get ready to watch the Patriots!

[sap retreiver]

GO PATS! I like the idea too

[Maple Doc]

This is a great idea! I've been very frustrated with the physics of the current filter system. I will pull up the pre-filter and sort of turn it on its side to try and get more out of each one. Your system sounds much more practical and efficient. Are you selling them? Have you thought about selling the idea to Leader?


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[pobryan]

Thanks to everyone for the compliments on our idea.

Yes, we are selling them and we have applied for a patent. We think this has a lot of potential for the small producer and takes cone filtering to a level on par with a flat pan filter. Here are some photos of the rack. The photo in the filter tank shows the legs sticking out. These are meant to be bent over and trimmed to fit the tank. My tank is 11" in diameter but that rack will fit up to a 15" pot and it could be made bigger. We can also accommodate a square filter tank. If interested in purchasing one contact me at pobryan@verizon.net
151431514415142

[Sugarmaker]

Great idea! Good luck with your invention!
Regards,
Chris

[billyinvt]

Amazing. I can't wait to rig something up that looks like this!

[berkshires]

Cool! I'm curious - you don't show this in your photos, but I assume that second wire coming off the ring (next to the one that holds the apparatus up in the bucket) is to go through the holding tabs on the filter, right?

[mspina14]

That is just pure genius.

Why didn't I think of that!....

Mark

[pobryan]

Thanks again for the kudos.
Yes, the short wire is meant to hold the filter but we are also using stainless steel clips.


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[RileySugarbush]

Let me add my note of admiration. We tried many tricks to get better use of cone filters, but nothing as good as this.

[TomorrowRiverMapler]

I wonder if Smokey Lake would take back the new flat filter I just bought two weeks ago? Just kidding as they are pretty nice but your persistence is commendable as I just gave up dealing with the plugging issues of the cone filter. I would say you have a revolutionary breakthrough in cone filtering and hope you sell a lot of them.

[pobryan]

Something else about this I wanted to mention.
Every prefilter whether its a flat or cone will eventually plug up and then you need to change it. Cone prefilter needs to be picked up and poured into the next prefilter, what a pain with hot syrup.
With our rack; once the prefilter plugs up you pull the filter up off the rack and the prefilter reverts back to it's original cone shape. The remaining syrup then filters through the bottom of the cone that has done little or no filtering


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[johnallin]

That is simply an amazing discovery. My old hat filter is off to you sir.

[psparr]

Now your just making me mad that I didn't think of this first!

[eustis22]

What did you use for the rods? Are they welded? They look welded.

[pobryan]

Everything is 304 stainless steel and is TIG welded.
Pat

[Atgreene]

I was at Bill Mason's yesterday, could have asked him about making one. Next trip over I'll ask him.

[Waynehere]

I was at Bill Mason's yesterday, could have asked him about making one. Next trip over I'll ask him.

Or you can ask Pat to make one for you. I just got mine and I think it will work great. Very speedy too. :D

[pobryan]

I came across this photo from our early experiments with the Optimizer concept. This pre-filter did its b from top to bottom. Most of the syrup was filtered by the main body and once it plugged up I lifted it out and the remaining syrup was filtered through the bottom of the cone. As you can see the system works quite well.15340

[Waynehere]

Got my basket from Pat and set it up. I think it is going to work great on my new Smokey Lake filter tank. Thanks Pat.15350153511535215353

[Vtmbz]

I ordered one of these for my volrath cream can that i use for a filter container. It fits perfectly, and arrived two days after I ordered it. The idea is so,onvious you know it will work. In my case it keeps the filter out of the fresh syrup. So thanks guys, for doing a good job for me.

[pobryan]

Hi everyone,
Thanks for all the interest and positive feedback. We definitely want to hear your thoughts on using the Optimizer.
We are making them and shipping as fast as we can. Hope to get a little ahead so I can get my trees tapped.
Just a note: I've had a little trouble navigating the PMs on MapleTrader (I'm an old dog and that's a new trick) so I'd like to suggest everyone email me directly at: pobryan@verizon.net
Also if anyone has sent me a message and I missed it, I apologize and please shoot me an email.
Good tapping
Pat

[Waynehere]

Ooo, glad I got mine early. Have used it 2x now and really have to say it works great.

Thanks Pat.

[mule man]

Hi Pat! I sent you a personal e-mail but it bounced back. Perhaps if you e-mailed me first, we could connect. My name is Todd and my e-mail is Hershey5@ymail.com. I am interested in the Optimizer. Thanks!

[SeanD]

I'm just giving this thread a bump because I've been using this optimizer that Pat built and it's the shizzle. I've used cone filters for eleven years and this design blows the old setup away. I can put way more syrup through my filters with this design than I could before. Now that I'm using an RO, I'm getting syrup off the evaporator at a much faster rate and this system is able to keep up. I got this just in time. If you are currently using cone filters and considering the jump to a press, this is a very affordable and effective step in between.

I will also add a benefit that hasn't been mentioned in this thread. When I used to rinse out my cone filter after a boil, I would have to do the usual crazy-hot water, turning it inside out thing we all do - getting soaked and scalded at a time you just want to go to bed. When the cone filter sits in this rack, it takes on the shape of the basket and stays in place. I can leave it in the rack, run crazy-hot water through one side, then just turn it over to run the water through the other side. It can stay in the rack all season. No turning it inside out, and getting soaked and scalded. I just put it over a bucket and it drip dries for the next boil.

Sean

[sap retreiver]

How much. Me and one other might be interested. Looks pretty neat and definitely has to make life easier. Thanks Brian

[pobryan]

Sean,
Thanks for the feedback. I also just started running and RO and my drawoffs have doubled in size. Tuesday we had a 3 gallon draw and it all went into and through the filter in one continuous pour. Here are a couple pictures of the pre-filter.1582015821

[pobryan]

Brian,
Units are $50 each + shipping or you can pick them up if Deerfield, MA is too far.
Pat

[Biz]

I love my setup from Pat! Filters so much better and faster and saves me a lot of grief, like pulling out plugged prefilters with tongs and tipping them on their sides a couple times like I have done for years. Great product!!

Dave

[pobryan]

Sean's mention of cleaning the filter brings up another tip: Before cleaning the filter we will dip the filter while still in the rack into a pot of hot water to pull the sugar stuck in the filter out, then dump that water into the sap pan. No sense wasting it.
Another tip: We will set up a pre-filter in a rack and set it in a 5 gal. bucket then draw off the sap pan when cool to filter out some of the solids. I usually do this when we are in for a hard freeze like tonight (in Northeast) and I want to drain it to protect the pan from freezing. Usually takes me four 5 gal. pails to empty the sap pan on my 2x6. You can also do this with the front pan if you drain it to clean.
Thanks again for the feedback and happy boiling
Pat

[Jonnie Maple]

Being that I am a backyarder, I rigged up one of these on my filter holder. Used it the first time today and it really does work. Poured a gallon + through 2 pre filters and filter in no time flat. usually wait forever for it to go through. Great idea.

[mapletwins]

I was just wondering what the diameter of the ring was on the Optimizer? I have several 5 quart Orlon filters, and I'm just wondering if it would work with this design? Thanks and great idea!!

[pobryan]

I was just wondering what the diameter of the ring was on the Optimizer? I have several 5 quart Orlon filters, and I'm just wondering if it would work with this design? Thanks and great idea!!

The ring is 9" in diameter. Although I have not personally tried it I am told it will work with 5 quart filters. Obviously the filtering capacity will be diminished because of less area in a 5 quart filter but it will be better than what a 5 qt can do conventionally.
Pat

[Helicopter Seeds]

I had been setting my cones in a bottomless pail, which sets on a fryer cone filter rack. After seeing this thread, I mad the sailors hat and simply inverted the rack.

I only filtered hot near-syrup yesterday but it stayed stable anyway. Looking forward to the actual filtering, and it cost me nothing since I already have the rack.

[michael marrs]

nice job thinking outside the box for a better mousetrap. Are you able to use prefilter with the final filter at the same time?

[scottshawley]

I just used mine for the first time and what a game changer! What used to be such a pain is now easy. As previously stated, the process of removing a clogged filter is as simple as lifting it up to have the inverted portion collapse back into the cone shape where the left over syrup then passes through the clean portion of the filter quickly. This seems to be a very good investment and I encourage everyone to give it a shot.


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[pobryan]

I just posted a video on our Facebook page at Sheldon Brook Sugarhouse of a 2 gallon+ pour into cone filters set up in the Optimizer (pat pend). There is also a couple pictures of the Optimizer (pat pend) in both square and round configuration.
Pat

[Dave Puhl]

Thanks for the great idea Pat...and for sharing... this is why this site has allot to offer..

[johnpma]

I just posted a video on our Facebook page at Sheldon Brook Sugarhouse of a 2 gallon+ pour into cone filters set up in the Optimizer (pat pend). There is also a couple pictures of the Optimizer (pat pend) in both square and round configuration.
Pat Link please

[pobryan]

Link please

I tried to post a link but the video is imbedded in my Facebook account. Search Sheldon Brook Sugarhouse in Facebook. I'll try posting on YouTube when I get a chance but I have slow internet, sorry.
Pat

[Cedar Eater]

Here's a link to his facebook page. The video is down a ways. https://www.facebook.com/Sheldon-Brook-Sugarhouse-1516709771950255/

[pobryan]

johnpma,
OK, you got me off my lazy (you know what) and I created a YouTube channel. Here is the link to the video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mJyG03Uwy8
Now that I've got the basics of YouTube down I'll post some more vids, Thanks John.
Pat

[wally]

nice job, pat.

i don't have a wire rack (it's wood), but i've been using the "sailor hat" for at least 15 years. the efficiency is so much higher than drawing off into a cone. your design is better than mine, and i can incorporate the wire subrame in mine.

https://i.postimg.cc/2576P2xG/P4030035.jpg (https://postimage.org)[/url]

https://i.postimg.cc/7LM24g4H/P4030041.jpg (https://postimage.org/)[url=https://postimage.org/]

excellent.

wally

[johnpma]

johnpma,
OK, you got me off my lazy (you know what) and I created a YouTube channel. Here is the link to the video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mJyG03Uwy8
Now that I've got the basics of YouTube down I'll post some more vids, Thanks John.
Patoutstanding! Thanks for sharing!!

[murferd]

I saved the pictures of your wire rack. Took them to a welding shop. The old guy there has done syrup for years, so he was quite interested, he made
me one in a few minutes. It works fantastic! We draw from evaporator to a holding tank all day, one set of pre filters & cloth cone filter lasted the whole
time. Great idea & thanks a bunch for sharing!

[Maple Doc]

I have now used the "Optimizer" on 2 occasions and cannot be happier. I drove to Pat's home to pick up a cone filter rack (9 inch square version) in March. Pat gave me personal instruction on how to set up the rack. His simple user manual was very helpful -- I learned a few more tricks about some of the finer points of using a cone filter.

The filter rack is a neat and very effective modification of the cone filter system which makes fuller use of the cone's surface area. The pre-filters are obviously essential and fold into the contour of the rack system quite easily. Removing the pre-filters is a snap, with the bottom of the pre-filter being available to quickly filter the syrup that was no longer dripping through the folded pre-filter. The clean-up also seems to be much less of a problem -- not all of the niter is clogged up at the bottom of the filters. This was one of the best $50 I have invested in my sugaring operations.

I've attached 3 different views of the completed rack system suspended over my finishing pan, getting hot and moist, in anticipation of some hot syrup!

163761637416375

[pobryan]

I have now used the "Optimizer" on 2 occasions and cannot be happier. I drove to Pat's home to pick up a cone filter rack (9 inch square version) in March. Pat gave me personal instruction on how to set up the rack. His simple user manual was very helpful -- I learned a few more tricks about some of the finer points of using a cone filter.

The filter rack is a neat and very effective modification of the cone filter system which makes fuller use of the cone's surface area. The pre-filters are obviously essential and fold into the contour of the rack system quite easily. Removing the pre-filters is a snap, with the bottom of the pre-filter being available to quickly filter the syrup that was no longer dripping through the folded pre-filter. The clean-up also seems to be much less of a problem -- not all of the niter is clogged up at the bottom of the filters. This was one of the best $50 I have invested in my sugaring operations.

I've attached 3 different views of the completed rack system suspended over my finishing pan, getting hot and moist, in anticipation of some hot syrup!

163761637416375

Maple Doc,
Thanks for sharing, we love hearing feedback.
Hope that trip you were taking and your sugar season both were a success.
Pat

[Jcrampy]

I have approx 300 taps and when it came to the filtering process I always got very frustrated as it took for ever and I was always waiting good syrup in the process. I googled how to better filter with a cone filter and that was when I saw Pats idea. I tried it on the next boil and it worked great I was truly amazed. All the syrup went through one filter with a pre filter. All I need now is the actual optimizer. Thanks again great idea
This is a great site with a lot of good ideas and help.
My first post hope it was done properly.

James.

[pobryan]

Optimizer Sale.
From now till December 31 we are offering the Optimizer at 10% off.
Email: pobryan@verizon.net with "Optimizer" in the subject line for ordering and questions.
Thanks,
Pat


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[Kkallone]

We have 1200 taps and prefer the cone filters over a press. We use 4 cone filters with double liners at a time and near the end of the Maple Season when the niter levels are higher we struggle with the process. Your product sounds like it just might help us.

Will you ship to Canada?

Kendra
Kallonen Maple Farm
4421 Sideroad 10 N
Cambridge, Ontario Canada

[rayjavu]

I know this is an old post but i was wondering if you sell these? I can't email you because I'm at work.
Thanks,
Ray Buckner

[pobryan]

We have 1200 taps and prefer the cone filters over a press. We use 4 cone filters with double liners at a time and near the end of the Maple Season when the niter levels are higher we struggle with the process. Your product sounds like it just might help us.

Will you ship to Canada?

Kendra
Kallonen Maple Farm
4421 Sideroad 10 N
Cambridge, Ontario Canada
Kendra, I'll be happy to ship to Canada but it is expensive.
Pat

[Steviep]

Pat what are you using for filters.

[pobryan]

Pat what are you using for filters.
8qt. Orlon cone filters and pre-filters that are available from Leader and other suppliers.

[Woody77]

Mail the photos and a discreption to yourself via certified mail and sing for it when you get it. This is as good as a patten till you get your things together. As long as it is post marked it is legal proof of date of invention. So that no one can claim the came up with it first.

[Steviep]

Don't open it though that way it's proof you sent it on that date.

[pobryan]

They say if you want really nice looking syrup you need to use a filter press. So I wanted to post this picture of a bottle of syrup that we ran through a cone filter and pre-filters using the Optimizer. That is a Crown Royal bottle and makes a nice gift bottle.
Pat18184

[OCHTO]

Your optimizer works as described. I can filter 2X the syrup at one time than I used to. Pour in the syrup and put my pot cover on and it stays hot and I don't lose as much steam affecting my syrups brix. Kudos Pat.

[eustis22]

pobryan, doesn't the syrup all spill out when you take the cap off?

[pobryan]

Hi OCHTO,
Thanks for the kind words. Comments like yours are our best referral and advertising.
Pat

[pobryan]

pobryan, doesn't the syrup all spill out when you take the cap off?

Yes it does, right onto my pancakes. I have to remember to flip the photo upside down before posting.

[pobryan]

Hi Everyone,
If you like the idea of the Optimizer and you think it can help with your cone filtering (if you're not sure, read the previous 7 pages) then now is the time to order. We have a limited supply left for this season and my sources tell me the price of stainless steel is going up which is going to force a price increase with our next production run. Here are the details on which configuration to order and how to place an order.
NOTE: these prices are limited to current stock so send me an email before you order.

They come in 2 configurations;
round for pots and tanks from 9.5"-15" in diameter and square for the new
square filter tanks made by Leader and others.
Cost is $50+$12s&h=$62. If shipped to Canada total cost is $75.50USD
You can order either by submitting payment to Paypal that is linked to my
email pobryan@verizon.net or you can send a money order or personal check
to:
Patrick O'Bryan
385 Upper Rd
Deerfield, MA 01342
NOTE: some people are sending cash but as you know there is a risk with
that.

Paypal, Bank check or cash gets immediate shipment.
Personal checks are held until they clear.

Thanks
Pat

[Dlee]

Well Pat I am impressed would love to have one of these looks like it would make filtering much easier. I am in Canada and you said the price is 75.00 is that including shipping and taxes.

[pobryan]

Well Pat I am impressed would love to have one of these looks like it would make filtering much easier. I am in Canada and you said the price is 75.00 is that including shipping and taxes.
Dlee, Price is $75.50usd shipped to Canada. Paypal is the best venue for Canadian sales if that works for you. Otherwise email me at pobryan@verizon.net. Pat

[needmoremaples]

i shoved my cone filter into the coffee pot bottler (which normally sticks out 5 inches) and inverted without this rack. works good. not totally inverted but the bottom 1/3 is.

[pobryan]

We have made some changes in the Optimizer. The new model which we call Optimizer 2.0 has cleaner lines and no nooks or crannies for bacteria to get trapped in. It still needs to be cleaned but it is easier to do. The Optimizer 2.0 is formed and welded on CNC machinery and then acid washed to give it a brighter finish.
The following video opens with a picture of the Optimizer 2.0 both square and round. The video then shows how an Optimizer will make your cone filters work better for you.
I want to thank everyone for their interest, I believe this is one of the most viewed threads on Mapletrader. Over 24,000 views!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nH1-udM8VNU

[raptorfan85]

What's the easiest way to purchase the optimizer? I don't have a PayPal account... I live on the MA border, and Deerfield is a short ride for me if picking it up is an option.

[pobryan]

What's the easiest way to purchase the optimizer? I don't have a PayPal account... I live on the MA border, and Deerfield is a short ride for me if picking it up is an option.
Raptor, Sorry for the slow reply. Send me an email at pobryan@verizon.net.

[pobryan]

This Friday and Saturday (Jan. 4/5) we set up a table at the New York State Maple Conference in Syracuse. We were the guests of H2O Innovations and we want to thank them for their hospitality. We also want to thank all the sugar makers that stopped by to check out the Optimizer 2.0 and of course a special thanks to those that chose to purchase an Optimizer. We are sure you will be happy with its performance.
If you missed the NY show we will have a table at the MMPA Annual Meeting in Buckland, MA on Jan. 12, 2019 and also at the VT Maple Conference in Brattleboro, VT on Jan. 19, 2019. Stop by and check us out.
Also on Jan. 19, 2019 CT Maple Association (MSPAC) will be holding their Pre-season meeting in Lebanon, CT. If you are there check out the H2O Innovations booth. Ask Kyle about the Optimizer.

Pat

[pobryan]

Just a reminder.
If you missed the Massachusetts and New York shows we will be at the VT Maple Conference, Brattleboro, VT this Saturday, Jan 19, 2019. We had a great response at both NY and MA shows. Come and see us at the VT show. This is a good time to see the Optimizer in 3D, touch it, hold it, ask questions and best of all buy it while saving the shipping cost ($15). Spread the word, Sugaring season is coming. Hope to see you Saturday.
If you can't make it to the show you can still order by sending me an email at pobryan@verizon.net or you can purchase one direct from:
Basom Maple Farms, Alstead, NH
Suga Country Products, Vassalboro, ME
Countryside Hardware, DeRuyter, NY
H2O Innovations, Swanton, VT
All of these maple equipment suppliers have the Optimizer in stock.
Pat

[Dlee]

Can I get one of these Optimizxer this year if I ordered it now I am in Canada if so what is the cost.
Thanks Dave

[pobryan]

Hi Dave,
Yes, we can send one out to you. Send me an email at pobryan@verizon.net with your shipping address and we’ll work out the details.


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[Dlee]

Hi Pat just wondering if you got my email about the cheque thought maybe it never went threw because I haven't heard from you I use a cone filter and the money has been sent hope to hear from you . Dlee

[snoskier16]

Add me to the list of Optimizer owners! Sent payment today and will be eagerly awaiting it’s arrival!

On our first boil with our new RO we processed over half the syrup that we made all last season and found the volume to be a bit much for the normal cone to keep up with. We did get most everything through the cone, but we were left with some hazy syrup that we’ll have to reprocess. Hoping that being able to use more of the filters will let things go more smoothly and will give us clear syrup again!

[pobryan]

We just added another retailer that is stocking the Optimizer.
Shelburne Farm & Garden, Rt. 2, Shelburne Falls, MA

That's in addition to these other retailers
Basom Maple Farms, Alstead, NH
Suga Country Products, Vassalboro, ME
Countryside Hardware, DeRuyter, NY
H2O Innovations, Swanton, VT
All of these maple equipment suppliers have the Optimizer in stock.
Of course you can order directly from us but if you are close to any of the retailers listed above, get it there and save the shipping.
Thanks for everyone's support
Pat

[pobryan]

If you are in the southeastern Vermont, southwestern New Hampshire or western Massachusetts you need to know about QSH Maple Equipment and Supplies, 74 Main St, Northfield, MA 01360 . They are a CDL equipment dealer and the latest to join our family of retail outlets for the Optimizer.
Special thanks to Mike Quinn, owner of QSH for opening the doors of his closed store on a Sunday so I could buy a couple mainline saddles.
Pat

[SeanD]

Yup, big optimizer fan here, too. It's able to keep up with the 2+ gallons an hour I'm pulling off the rig, now.

Question for other optimizer users: How many gallons are you putting through an Orlon filter (with pre-filters) before the filter has lived its life and it's time to chuck it? Filter life should be longer with an Optimizer than without it, right?

I think I'm around 70 gallons on one right now and it's slowing up. I do get into draws where it spikes heavy and that doesn't help. At the end of each boil there's always a cup or so that just won't get through. I'm wondering if the filter is done or if it maybe needs a good hot soak.

What about wool filters? Any difference in life expectancy there?

[pobryan]

SeanD,
Here's my thoughts on your question. If your filter is slowing down that means it is plugged up. If it is filtering faster or the syrup isn't properly filtered then the filter is breaking down. My guess is you are not getting the filter completely clean when you wash it. I feel that household hot water is OK to get the majority of the filter clean but it won't get it all. Really hot water is what you need, maybe even boiling the filter. We had been using hot water that we gather off the preheater on my evaporator, that is like 200f and had no problem filtering but we were taking them to the house for a while and saw a decrease in filtering ability.
We took some pre-filters that we had cleaned in the kitchen sink and put them in some of that hot water off the evaporator. The water almost immediately turned brown. I also think permeate from an RO or pure water condensed from steam helps as it loosens the niters. I use permeate to clean my syrup pan with an overnight soak. Why wouldn't that help a filter.
Pat

[pobryan]

Here is another method we tried today and it worked really well.
We set up the Optimizer with the Orlon filter and 3 pre-filters. After the first pour which was over 2 gallons, we pulled the top pre-filter and replaced it with a clean one. We did this with every pour all of which exceeded 2 gallons. By the end of the day we had filtered almost 12 gallons of syrup by just pulling the top pre-filter. The filter stack had no problem draining.
Pat

[Dlee]

Hey Pat finally got to use my optimizer like you I use pre-filter with it and couldn't be happier no waiting for the syrup really helped a lot thanks again

[SeanD]

Here is another method we tried today and it worked really well.
We set up the Optimizer with the Orlon filter and 3 pre-filters. After the first pour which was over 2 gallons, we pulled the top pre-filter and replaced it with a clean one. We did this with every pour all of which exceeded 2 gallons. By the end of the day we had filtered almost 12 gallons of syrup by just pulling the top pre-filter. The filter stack had no problem draining.
Pat

That's a good strategy. I think (another) one of my mistakes is when I have a big draw like the first one of the day and it all goes through well, I foolishly figure, that the top filter is still good, so I leave it for more. Then when it quickly plugs, I'm trying to pull it out full while more is coming off the rig. Not fun.

I had a really short boil the day before yesterday, so I decided I'd pull the top filter earlier. The last few cups that were in it went through when the filter straightened out and the rest of the boil went through well. It was only four gallons overall, but I can tell that I need to do what you are talking about - let the top filter take the hit, replace it, and pull it more frequently.

I'm also giving my Orlon filter longer hotter soaks and having good results. Thanks for that, too. That's helping a lot. I still have a cup or two not passing through at the end of the boil, but I think that's more about the draws being still a bit too heavy and the lack of hot syrup coming in anymore. So, I've just been pouring it off in a bucket and saving it each time. It's semi-filtered, heavy syrup that I'll save up and just correct and re-filter when I have batch that needs finishing at the end.

Thanks for the feedback,
Sean

[barnbc76]

I gotta buy the optimizer for next year, even though I use the similar method with a collender it's still not as good, but I have a question, I consistently lose alot of syrup in the filters. I try and rinse them back in the pan the next time I boil so I dont lose all that syrup but doesn't that just put all the nitter back into the next batch, causing it to be 2x as difficult to filter.

[VTnewguy]

I gotta buy the optimizer for next year, even though I use the similar method with a collender it's still not as good, but I have a question, I consistently lose alot of syrup in the filters. I try and rinse them back in the pan the next time I boil so I dont lose all that syrup but doesn't that just put all the nitter back into the next batch, causing it to be 2x as difficult to filter.
I have one for sale message me. Works great.

[Dlee]

When using the combination of the pre-filter and the wool filter a lot of the niter gets caught in the pre-filter so I would think that as long as your just rinsing the sweet out of your wool filter that the rest of the niter will stay in the wool filter IMO

[barnbc76]

I have one for sale message me. Works great.
Thanks but I sort of went over budget this year with building an ro. I will likely buy from probryan next year.

[SeanD]

I gotta buy the optimizer for next year, even though I use the similar method with a collender it's still not as good, but I have a question, I consistently lose alot of syrup in the filters. I try and rinse them back in the pan the next time I boil so I dont lose all that syrup but doesn't that just put all the nitter back into the next batch, causing it to be 2x as difficult to filter.

I take the Orlon filter out of the optimizer leaving it in its sailor hat shape. I put it in the bottom of a bucket and pour the hottest water I can get into the top of the filter. It retains its shape as it fills up. I don't overflow the top of the filter. Eventually the sweet water from the inside filters through to the outside. The next day, I'll pull the filter out and set the sweet aside to go into the back pan. I wash the filter with clean hot water in the sink. My hot water tank is super hot. I have to use gloves when washing the filters.

Sometimes when I'm pulling the filter out of the soak, it spills out the top. It's not a problem. The sweet from the soak is amazingly clean - cleaner than the sweet that's already in the pan. Dlee is right. The majority of niter is removed by the pre-filters.

I still bought a second optimizer this year to keep as a backup if things go south. It has its own Orlon filter and pre-filters hot and ready. There have been times when the syrup is coming off faster than I can pull filters (and everything else going on during the boil) and it's nice to have a second setup to swap out if I'm in a jam. It's worth the peace of mind for me.

[pobryan]

Do your pre-filters come out looking like this?https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190328/d863b176a56367d50292a6a72c6a5a2e.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[barnbc76]

Yeah mine looks like that sometimes.

[SeanD]

Ha, ha. Yup. Every night I have at least four or five of those!

[Dlee]

Well got to say this yr for some reason its not near as nasty looking as that :o

[wally]

dad bought one of the optimizers at bascoms at the end of last year’s season, so i didn’t get a chance to use it in 2018. he died in july, so he never got to see it work in our sugar house. i am using it this season; it works great. a single wool filter has processed 5 gallons, while using a clean paper filter for each draw. one paper filter per gallon, so far.

the optimizer is excellent, and the frame allows for better preheating/soaking prior to drawing off.

wally

[pobryan]

dad bought one of the optimizers at bascoms at the end of last year’s season, so i didn’t get a chance to use it in 2018. he died in july, so he never got to see it work in our sugar house. i am using it this season; it works great. a single wool filter has processed 5 gallons, while using a clean paper filter for each draw. one paper filter per gallon, so far.

the optimizer is excellent, and the frame allows for better preheating/soaking prior to drawing off.

wally
Wally,
Our condolences on your father's passing. Sounds like sugaring is a family tradition for you to carry on and bring you good memories.
Pat

[buck3m]

Wally,
Our condolences on your father's passing. Sounds like sugaring is a family tradition for you to carry on and bring you good memories.
Pat

Well said, many good memories that can never be taken away.

[pobryan]

Bascom Maple Farms, Alstead, NH will be hosting their Open House on May 3rd and 4th. They have asked us to man an informational table on the Cone Filter Optimizer. So stop by and check it out. The Optimizer is a new product in the Bascoms catalog this year which has been well received by their customers with good feedback.
If you are like me a small sugarmaker who cone filters, the Optimizer is the best investment you can make in your operation.
Pat

[pobryan]

Bascom Maple Farms, Alstead, NH will be hosting their Open House on May 3rd and 4th. They have asked us to man an informational table on the Cone Filter Optimizer. So stop by and check it out. The Optimizer is a new product in the Bascoms catalog this year which has been well received by their customers with good feedback.
If you are like me a small sugarmaker who cone filters, the Optimizer is the best investment you can make in your operation.
Pat

[pobryan]

Chad from Minnesota purchased one of our Optimizers this year. He sent me a review which I am posting here with his permission. Thanks Chad!

I want to write a quick review and thank Sheldon Brook Sugarhouse for designing an amazing product. This winter I purchased their filter optimizer rack after reading some positive reviews on-line. All I can say is wow, this this is awesome. Yesterday was my first chance to use the rack. I loaded it up with four prefilters and one main filter as described by the instructions. As soon as my syrup reached temp, I dumped ~4 gallons of boiling syrup into the filters and to my amazement, everything filtered through in a matter of minutes. The end product was amazing. Zero sediment in my jars. I truly cannot believe that something so simple makes filtering so easy. Anyone who has filtered maple syrup knows it can be a long painful process. This thing literally makes it effortless. I HIGHLY recommend this to anyone who makes syrup. You will not be disappointed. Thank you again Sheldon Brook Sugarhouse!

[rayjavu]

I used one of these for the first time this year and it is everything it's advertised to be. What a difference it makes!

[barnbc76]

Hope to use the optimizer this season

[tbear]

You are going to LOVE it! Ted

[pobryan]

Hi everyone,
We are happy to announce that Devon Lane Farm Supply, 357 DAniel Shays Highway, Belchertown, MA 01007 ph 413-323-6336 is now a stocking retailer of the Optimizer. They also carry a selection of other equipment for the Maple Sugar Maker. So if you live in the Central Massachusetts area you can get an Optimizer direct from them and save shipping costs.
As always if you are not near one of our stocking dealers we are happy to ship directly to you including into Canada.
You can contact me directly at pobryan@verizon.net
Thanks
Pat

[pobryan]

Just want to reach out and let everyone know we are still around, and the Optimizer is making a positive impact on small producer filtering. We just added a website that has lots of info with videos, etc.
Check it out at: www.conefilteroptimizer.com

Hope you all have a great holiday season.
Pat

[jjohns2vt]

This will be my first year making maple syrup and filtering was one of the last hurdles, not being completely satisfied with cone filter options out there until I came across this. With as many online searches I have done for something like this, it never showed up in the search results, unfortunately. Thanks!!!

[Andy VT]

Cool! The economizer sounds like a cool way to use a cone filter. I will say I haven't felt the need, but it did give me a good idea. You can hand-shape the cone filter into the economizer shape for small quantities and it will more or less keep that shape. For large batches, like 1.5 gallons or more, you probably wouldn't be able to maintain that shape without the economizer, but also might not really need to.
Just my two cents on it.
It is a nifty little idea. Just wanted to mention the same thing, to some extent, can be done without it.
Andy

[82cabby]

I used the optimizer last season for the first time. It’s a significant improvement over just the cone filter.

[SeanD]

Ditto on the Optimizer. There are some things in this industry you pay a lot for and get a little back. Or you pay a lot for and you make it obsolete with upgrades the next season.
This is the opposite. For a little money you will dramatically DRAMATICALLY improve your filtering time and efficiency. I used two in tandem filtering right off the rig with about 300 taps and an RO. These little guys can keep up. Of course there can be tough moments, with some heavy niter or accidentally pulling off the rig too heavy (user error), but that happens with any gravity filter. If anything, the Optimizer saved my butt more often than not.

I have since upgraded to a small filter press, but spending short money on one then a second for a few seasons allowed me to save and invest in other parts of the operation until I was able to make the jump to a filter press.

If you are a smaller timer looking to improve your gravity filtering before making the jump to mechanical filtering, you can not do any better than this.

[Andy VT]

I may be sold! For 2025 at least. Gotta cool it for 2024. :-)

[Gord]

Great idea! I didn't know there was a tool specifically made for this process!

[CTguy923]

i ended up with 2 of these optimizers in some stuff i bought used, what a game changer for the small producer, great product

[johnallin]

Cool! The economizer sounds like a cool way to use a cone filter. I will say I haven't felt the need, but it did give me a good idea. You can hand-shape the cone filter into the economizer shape for small quantities and it will more or less keep that shape. For large batches, like 1.5 gallons or more, you probably wouldn't be able to maintain that shape without the economizer, but also might not really need to.
Just my two cents on it.
It is a nifty little idea. Just wanted to mention the same thing, to some extent, can be done without it.
Andy


I may be sold! For 2025 at least. Gotta cool it for 2024. :-)

Every now and then someone has a brilliant idea…@pobryan did just that with his “sailor hat” filter frame.
Came right out of nowhere, revolutionized wool-hat filtering and tried to make a go of it.
Your first post implies that you don’t need his invention, your second post says you’re on board...
I think you’re a goofball.

[Andy VT]

Every now and then someone has a brilliant idea…@pobryan did just that with his “sailor hat” filter frame.
Came right out of nowhere, revolutionized wool-hat filtering and tried to make a go of it.
Your first post implies that you don’t need his invention, your second post says you’re on board...
I think you’re a goofball.

John Allin, I can't argue with you there!
I think I was just trying to mention that the invention was cool, but I had never tried one yet, but its existence gave me the idea of making a sailor hat with the cone even if you didn't have the optimizer, so just wanted people to know of that technique that they could use while waiting for shipment of their optimizers. But I was surprised how "gotta have this thing" other posters were, so I got on board (mainly didn't want to poo poo a cool invention, but also started to think maybe I really do need one). But I must say this season I'm continuing without the optimizer and I'm back to not being able to figure out what problem I need to solve. My batches are all more than 1 gallon each now and I'm not doing a sailor hat anymore, and hard as I've tried I haven't been able to clog things up yet. So, I guess I'm back to not needing it! But still a cool little invention. Yep, goofball! (seriously). I'll be sure to update this thread when/if I buy one!