Originally Posted by
bryankloos
I do use defoamer in the evap. I still get beige foam/scum that builds up on the sides of the channels at the fluid/sap line.
I’m starting to think that maybe this is the source of funk.
The defoamer I use was from bascom, sold as defoamer. Maybe I should switch to straight canola oil?
I try to skim the scum with a SS spoon as I boil. Maybe I would benefit from a good skimmer?
I’m still curious what the scum is. I need to take some photos this year, assuming it’s present.
I know the scum of which you speak!
I also have a ss slotted spoon to try to take off some. I used to fling it off the spoon as waste, until I realized how good it tasted! I have a feeling it is extra protein in the sap? And it does leave a small "scum line" in the evaporator too. I get it the most in the early and middle channels of the pan, not as much in the channel that is closest to syrup.
2017 - 20ish taps on buckets, boiling outside in two baking pans
2018 - 70+ taps, 14-buckets, 50+ on tubing, homemade arch from oil tank in my barn, 17 gal syrup
2019 - same set up, 20 gal syrup
2020 - less taps, short season, but RO kit was fantastic! 6 gal syrup and a maple cat!
2021/22/23 - expanded into the neighbors yards! 50 taps on buckets and 40 taps on tubing