Bees Wax

From the Irish beekeeper Sept 2004

Processing Methods

The most convenient method of salvaging wax from cappings and old combs is by means of a solar wax extractor. Insulate the floor and sides to conserve heat. Use double glazed glass or perspex as a cover and tilt at right angles to the sun. Filter wax through old nylon tights.

Another method is to melt the wax in a saucepan of soft water (rain water) or use the burco boiler with tap for the wax to run off into a bucket. The natural alkalinity of hard water affects the wax by producing a surface film of grey mush - so use rainwater or hard water plus one teaspoon of vinegar per pint. Again filter the wax through old tights. Wax melts at 64°C approximately.

Preparation of wax for show Exhibits of beeswax are a feature of Honey Shows - cake of wax, beeswax model, furniture polish and candles. When made pure beeswax candles are most useful - they burn brightly with a smokeless flame and are long lasting. They can be made by pouring, dipping and moulding, or by simply rolling foundation.

Wick-'The soul of the candle'

1.The wick carries the molten wax upwards by capillary action to where, in contact with air, it vaporises and is burned.

2.Always prime the wick in hot wax.

3.Wick should be correct size (thickness) for the diameter of the candle. e.g. For 2" diameter use number 6 wick, for 11/2" diameter use number 4 wick. For 1" diameter use a number 2 wick and for 1/2" diameter use a number 1 wick. If wick is too big it will burn black and leave an ash. If it is too small, guttering will occur.

Foundation Candles

1.Prime the wick.

2.Heat the unwired sheet of wax foundation with a hairdryer.

3.Fold the wax over the wick and roll while warm on a glass sheet. Ensure it is tight to achieve a round shape.

4.Seal wax finish by using a flame of match.

5.Trim the wick. (You could taper by cutting the sheet diagonally at the start)

Moulded Candles-Rubber

1.Make timber stand with wire to hold wick.

2.Melt the filtered wax to 70° -75° C.

3.Cut wick to correct length.

4.Prime wick and draw it out straight.

5.Prepare mould by lubricating with two drops of washing up liquid.

6.Position mould with wick in central position into mould stand.

7.When wax is at 70° C pour into mould, tap to expel air and leave overnight to cool.

8.When cold peel off mould having first rubbed two drops of washing up liquid to outside of mould. Flatten base and trim wick.

Furniture Polish

1.Shred and melt four ounces of wax.

2.Add half pint of turpentine.

3.Pour into plastic or tin container and allow to cool.