Minimum Size/Configuration For Finishing

[CaptT820]

All-
What would be the minimum size and/or configuration for the pan to be in order to draw off maple syrup? I am looking to make my operation more efficient by not having to finish the syrup on a propane heater or something like that after the boil. I'm trying to get a 2x4 size pan and didn't know if you could truly finish the syrup on something of that size.

Thanks

[maple flats]

Yes you can finish even on a 2x3. I used to finish on the Half Pint which was my first "real" evaporator. It could be done with or without dividers but with will be easier. If without, periodically stir it to keep it blended and as soon as it tests right, shut off the propane.
It will take a long time to get close, but then it speeds up significantly, be ready for that. Part way thru the boil, removing 1% of the water will be hard to detect a diference, but when you get to 66% it takes almost no time to get to 66.9%. Some stop at 66% some 66.5% and others, myself included go to 66.9%.

[Woody77]

I started with a 2×5 flat pan. I would try to do 200 gallon batches of sap so I would end up with enough in the pan to finish it right in the pan. I always finished it a bit heavy and thinned as needed. Having enough in the pan at that end was crucial for avoiding a burnt batch.

[Russell Lampron]

Look at the 2x4 hybrid pans. The back section has flues to increase the evaporation rate and the front section is small enough to bring the syrup to density. If you do decide to go hybrid make sure that the front section has dividers in it. Hybrid pans come with raised or dropped flues. You need to know which one so that you can build or buy the correct arch for it.