Raised Flu vs Drop Flu

[HannahL]

I have been a very small operation for several years using a small flat pan and I am looking into a 2x6 of various models and configurations. My question is what would you prefer and why? What is the difference in boiling rate?

Thanks

[MapleMark753]

First, what what I've seen, read and heard, either one of similar size would do you fine. Boiling rates can be similar. I like the raised flue, it just makes sense to me, and cleaning it out is a breeze with the drain at the corner of the flue pan. Some, but not all drop flues have a drain at the bottom of the flues. Just note that BOTH have passionate defenders and proponents, you'll probably come across this as you talk with people and research. I'd just suggest you find one you like, with the features you gotta have, with a competitive price, and get that. This is only a guess, but if you're thinking of buying new for this coming season, you MAY not find what you want now. Normal waits can be in the months long range. Good Luck!

[wiam]

I have seen smaller drop glue pans with no drain. DO NOT GET ONE OF THOSE.

[sap retreiver]

I like my raised flue. Cleaning is easy, seems that operating is easier and very hard to hit with wood. Just my opinion

[maple flats]

I started with a flat pan 2' x 3', then I got a drop flue 2' x 6' and then I got a 3' x 8' raised flue. I like the better control I get with a raised flue. I believe you will find that in any given size a raised flue gets better boiling rate than a drop flue, but the difference is slight.

[SeanD]

I have a drop flu and if I had to choose again, I'd get a raised. I'd like to have the ability to have different levels in the different pans. The other factor not mentioned yet is that raised are usually a bit more expensive.

[wnybassman]

From what I have learned here raised flues can tolerate freezing a little better between boils also. I have a small raised flue unit and don't worry too much with just a light bulb in the firebox during hard freezes.

[VT_K9]

We went from an older raised flue 2X6 to a Leader WSE 2X6 drop flue. Our tin pan was seeping and the trade to a new WSE was very enticing. I think the shiny part was the nicest part as I look back. However I see the discussion points for the drop flue and have to agree the extra surface area can be helpful. The WSE is a single float system...not as much control as two float. This is where I believe I noticed a difference. The WSE is a nice unit for smaller producers.

Our WSE does not have a drain manifold in the drop flues. You see this in the larger or higher end units more often. I am not sure if it is now available in the WSE, but I think it is. This would be a requirement in any drop flue pan for me in the future. Right now we have a 1/2" PVC pipe with the end ground to match the contour at the bottom of the flues. It works, but the manifold and drain would be much nicer and convenient as we are now draining the pans every 10-15 gallons of syrup.

Right now we have 400 taps on vacuum and a RO. The WSE is recommended for 150-200 taps by Leader. I would look at each manufacture and the ratings they show, check the manufacture/model here and on the web for customer satisfaction, and finally are the reasonable range of ratings okay for your goals. Maybe you can find a hood, preheater, blower type option to up your ratings later (GET an insulated arch door up front if you want to upgrade to a blow). Start looking at the signature lines on the site and send IMs. I have not found anybody on the site to be less than helpful.

Most importantly the MB (Maple Bug) will bite and you will probably seek more or bigger. Find something that can be expanded, sold with little loss, or big enough from the get go with expansion for the impending MB. We are expanding this year to about 800 taps with goal of 1-1200 taps later. After this year we are retiring the 2X6 and moving to a 3X10 drop flue, hood, pre heater. The advantage for us is the 2X6 is a very popular size around here and selling it should be pretty easy.

Good Luck,

Mike

[OGDENS SUGAR BUSH]

I have used both drop and raised, I prefer raised, 1 drawback on raised is its hard to brush the flues and do a decent job of it

[maple marc]

Hi Mike,

I have a Leader 2x6 WSE and always appreciate sharing ideas. I'm curious about your comment:

"Right now we have a 1/2" PVC pipe with the end ground to match the contour at the bottom of the flues. It works, but the manifold and drain would be much nicer and convenient as we are now draining the pans every 10-15 gallons of syrup."

Not sure what you mean by this. I agree, without a drain plug, draining this pan is a real pain! Are you grinding a "V" in the end of a PVC pipe, then using a pump or siphon? Details? I siphon but it's not easy.

BTW, what is your evaporation rate? When I'm really cooking I get about 30 gph. That's at a stack temp of about 900.

Thanks,
Marc