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The famous beekeeper and honey producer Philip Chandler designed the original flow hive. However, other brands introduced some modifications later. Since then, several types of flow hives and supers have emerged. These include:
Flow hive
In a flow hive, honeycomb is partly formed and partly completed by the bees to produce honey that flows out through a tap. Harvesting can be done without opening the hive and without the need for filtration or manual extraction.
Foundationless flow supers
Many beekeepers prefer wooden frames with thin foundation sheets. Bees then build the honeycomb structure that they prefer. This method will ensure that bees build the comb in the shape they desire rather than in shapes pre-determined by the manufacturers of the foundation sheets.
Plastic flow frames
Most flow hives have flow frames made from plastic. This plastic frames are inserted into wooden supers. However, some manufacturers also sell fully plastic flow frames that are foundationless.
Full-width flow frames
Full-width flow frames are designed to take up the entire space of a hive box. This means the entire box must be filled with frames. Alternatively, some models feature removable flow frames. This allows for honey harvesting in smaller batches.
Shallow flow frames
Shallow flow frames have only one or two cells and are meant for smaller, shallow supers. In full-depth supers, the shallow flow frames are sometimes used with medium or shallow hive body boxes.
Deep flow frames
Deep flow frames are the standard type that consists of three frames with deep supers. They are designed to be installed in the deep supers that are part of the flow hive kit or sold separately.
Honeycomb-shaped flow frames
This feature makes the flow frames look similar to honeycomb. It is meant to show honey to the hive owner. More importantly, the honeycomb design is essential because it is the empty cells that bees have to fill honey in order to harvest the honey.
Flow kit
If buyers already own a traditional hive, flow kits are available for purchase separately. These kits include flow frames and supers that can be integrated into existing hives. These items can also be sourced from Alibaba.com.
When buying flowhive supers, business owners should check the functional features as well as the design elements. This typically includes considerations related to The materials and construction of the supers and frames, honey harvesting mechanisms, and integration into standard beehive setups.
Harvesting mechanism
One of the main innovations of the flow hive is the harvesting mechanism. Bee activity is required to ensure that honey frames are filled with honey before flowing is opened for harvesting. It means that honey extraction can only happen when the frames are fully capped. The harvesting mechanism also has to be designed with minimal disturbance to the bees and with effective drainage pathways for honey.
Materials construction
Flow frames can also be made of different materials. These include food-grade plastic, wood, or a combination of both depending on the brand. The choice of materials affects durability, ease of cleaning, and whether bees will accept the framework. Wooden supers are often made from cedar, pine, or plywood. The choice of wood also affects the hive's insulation properties and its resistance to pests or rot.
Supers
These are additional components to the flow hive system. Buyers should look for supers that are compatible with standard Langstroth hives or other hive models. They should be available in different sizes. For instance, deep and shallow supers that can be added or removed based on honey production needs.
Frames
Buyers should also get shallow and deep flow frames. Each type of frame can be designed to fit specific supers. Deep frames are typically more spacious and encourage bees to build deeper honeycombs. Shallow frames, on the other hand, are smaller and more manageable.
Foundation options
Some manufacturers also provide flow frames with pre-installed foundation. Buyers who want to source foundationless flow frames have to look for brands that support this option. The type of foundation used can affect honey production and hive health.
Flow frame design features
The flow frames are designed to promote healthy bee activity. One way of promoting bee activity is by requiring bees to build honeycomb cells before honey can be harvested. This design encourages bees to create more honeycomb rather than simply storing honey.
Hive body design
The hive body holds all the components of the flow hive system together. Buyers should get hive bodies that are easy to assemble and disassemble. They should also get options with removable frames for convenient maintenance and harvesting.
Supers ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial for bee health and honey quality. Buyers should get flow hives that feature ventilation options in the supers. These help to regulate temperature and humidity inside the hive.
Pest control features
Buyers should look for flow hives that have integrated pest control features such as screened bottom boards or entrance reducers. These help to prevent common pests from infesting the hive.
Business owners need to consider several factors when purchasing flow hives and supers. They also need to get products that will yield honey of different types and qualities. Here are some tips to help them with both:
Honey types and qualities
Buyers should choose flow hives that will enable them to produce diverse honey l. This is because different honey types are made from diverse nectar sources. For instance, apiaries located near fruit trees produce honey with fruity flavors. These flavors are a characteristic of blackberry or orange blossom honey.
Those located near flowers with strong scents, like eucalyptus or lavender, produce honey with intense floral notes. This is preferred by buyers who like flower-scented honey. The water content of honey varies depending on its floral source. For instance, clover honey has a higher water content than thistle honey.
Honeys with lower water content are denser and can be cured, like bourbon barrel honey. Farm owners should also check whether the hives they are purchasing are suitable for making mono-floral or poly-floral honey. Honey blends are made when bees collect nectar from multiple flower types. On the other hand, monocular honey is made when bees collect nectar from a single flower type.
Swarm prevention
Farmers also need to consider honey characteristics when purchasing flow hives. They should look for options that will help them prevent swarming. This is because swarming reduces honey production. Growing a new colony triggers swarming and reduces honey production within the existing colony.
Since swaming also involves a period of stop and start. Farmers should get flow hives that allow them to control swarming. Buyers should also look for models that reduce honey-bound conditions. High honey-bound conditions prevent bees from consuming honey stores because they have no space to put newly stored honey.
Bee-friendly features
When making a decision, business owners should prioritize the well-being of bees. This will also help them make eco-friendly and sustainable honey production a reality. It is, therefore, important for buyers to get flow hives that require less chemical intervention. This is because high chemical interventions reduce bee colonies. Less chemical interventions also help to maintain healthy populations of bees.
Technologies that promote integrated pest management (IPM). For instance, trapping, cultural control, and monitoring are also essential. Buyers should also get products that will promote genetic diversity among resident bee populations.
This will help prevent inbreeding, which can lead to genetic bottlenecks. Above all, beekeeping practices that introduce new queen bees from outside stock will help maintain genetic diversity. In doing so, farmers will ultimately produce sustainable honey that supports healthy ecosystems.
Accessibility and maintenance
Farm owners will manage their hives more effectively when they use accessible and easy-to-maintain flow hives. This, therefore, means that when purchasing the products, they should consider how easy the products will be for the farmers. Home honey harvesting is popular among honey producers. The harvesting process should be as accessible and straightforward as possible for the farmers who love honey harvesting at home.
Buyers should also consider the longevity and durability of the flow hives. They should get options that are durable and require minimal maintenance. In case repairs are required, they should be easy to carry out. Also, the health of the bees will be affected by the condition of the hives. Sustainable beekeeping will also lead to better honey quality.
The quantity stored in the frames typically depends on the type of frames used in the supers. For instance, super frames feature the standard depth of around 9.5 inches or 24 centimeters. This measurement adds to the total amount of honey that can be stored. The amount also depends on whether the frames are shallow or deep. Shallow frames hold about 1.5 gallons of honey. On the other hand, deep frames hold approximately 7 gallons of honey.
The amount of honey on the other hand also depends on the cell size. Standard cell size is about 8 millimeters. This means that each frame can store around 6.5 liters of liquid. If the cell size is smaller, even less honey will be stored.
The good news is that any bee species can build the correct flow hives and supers. However, some species might find it easier than others. Honey bees are the most popular because they are easy to manage and are good at making honey. The most popular honey bee species are the Italian, Carniolan, and Caucasian.
Wild honey is also produced by bees that are not managed. It is also referred to as feral honey. Feral bees are designed to cope with the conditions of a particular area. This enables them to adapt to local weather and environmental conditions. Since they have not been specifically managed to produce honey, they tend to build more robust hives and produce strong honey.
Yes, flow hives are worth investing in. Although they require a high initial investment and are difficult to set up, they offer a high return on investment. After installing the flow hives, retail businesses can charge additional services such as extraction. They can also hire experts to get higher-quality honey. Most importantly, if the businesses are located in different areas or work with different suppliers, they can source parts and whole hives from Alibaba.com.
Although flow hives are designed for honey bees, they can also be suitable for other species such as mason, leafcutter, and carpenter bees. Honey bees are the preferred option. This is because they are more manageable, produce more honey, and make honeycomb stronger than other species.
Flow hives have several components that require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. This involves cleaning the flow frames and trays, checking the condition of the plastic flow frames, inspecting the condition of the super, and checking the condition of the hive body and lid among others.
The maintenance activities that retail businesses will have to carry out will depend on the bee species. For instance, honey bees usually require less maintenance than other bee species. Additionally, creditors will also have to consider several factors when carrying out maintenance. These include the materials and parts used and the age of the hives. Newer hives will require fewer repairs compared to older ones.
Common problems
One of the most common problems experienced with flow hives is a blockage in the flow frames. Blockages usually happen when the honey is allowed to sit in the cells for a long time. Because of this, retailers should always encourage their customers to clear any blockages immediately they notice them.
Occasional age-related wear and tear are also experienced by flow hives. This is particularly prominent in flow frames and trays. Sometimes, faulty seals also lead to leakage. Fortunately, most of these issues can be fixed through regular maintenance and the use of quality products.
Repair professionals will also be able to give the best solutions. Business owners can also get various maintenance-related products from Alibaba.com. Farmers will be able to repair damaged flow hives, undertake regular maintenance, and replace faulty parts with ease.
Here are some important factors farmers will use when choosing flow hives:
Peeling process
This is the main unique feature of flow hives. Some models have wider openings that allow honey to flow freely. Retails that prefer efficiency should get hives that feature fewer turning steps when compared to others. The peeling process also helps to ensure that honey does not have to be reprocessed more than is necessary.
Technology used
Although most manufacturers use special ways to open each cell, the technology used can be different. Some technologies even provide additional features like monitoring bee activity. This can also help businesses manage maintenance more effectively.
Materials
Most flow hives are made of pine or aluminum. Some are also provided with a protective coating that protects the hive from harsh weather conditions. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Go for options that will preserve the quality of the honey and offer the best insulation.
Frame material
Frames used in flow hives are also made using different materials. Some are plastic or stainless steel. Go for options that are easy to clean and promote healthy honey production.
Supers
In some flow hives, additional supers with more flow frames can be added. This allows for customizable honey yields based on the demand. Retailers can also get hives that have different hive body sizes. They can then use the same flow frames in different hives.
Frame spacing
Hives that feature standard 1.5-inch frame spacing are more desirable. This is because they offer the flexibility to adjust the space as necessary. Several closure positions should be included on the flow frames so that space can be easily customized. This will ensure that the bees build their comb uniformly.
The following tips will help retailers choose high-quality flow hives:
Check the craftsmanship
Although many flow hives are crafted by machines, some require human input. This is especially the case in parts that require quality water sealing. If the craftsmanship is good, fewer issues will be experienced. Get hives that feature smoother finishes.
Avoid hives with sharp ricochets or sturdy protrusions. They can kill or injure bees and affect honey quality. Inspect hives for hammer marks or dented sections. Such defects obstruct bees from efficiently utilizing space and entering or leaving the hive.
Get hives with quality information
Hives with quality information on the model name and where it was made are good. They give details on features such as wood thickness and frame spacing. Such information will help retailers choose the right options for their customers.
Ask about warranty and returns
Mediums and small-sized honey retailers will want to return or exchanged hives that are defective or do not meet the required standards. Before making a bulk purchase, ask about brands’ return policies and warranty terms.
Test the product
If possible, test the hives before making a bulk purchase. Ensure that the frames flow freely and the wood fits tightly. Check that the craftsmanship is of high quality and that joints are dovetailed neatly.
When choosing flow hives for their customers, retailers should consider several factors. Some have features that are bee-friendly. Others promote sustainable beekeeping practices. As a result, the quality of honey produced is high.
Here are the key components that are featured in flow hive supers:
Flow frame
This is the main component that allows honey to flow out during harvesting. The frame is designed with special mechanisms that enable honey to move through the frame. Honey is only extracted when the frame is full and capped. The frames are usually made from food-grade plastic or stainless steel.
Flow frame tray
Once honey moves through the flow frame, it then moves into the flow frame tray. The tray is located below each flow frame and is equipped with an opening that allows honey to flow out of the frame and into a collection container. This feature is managed by an integrated honey valve.
Honey valve
The honey valve is a crucial component of the flow hive system. It is located at the bottom of each flow frame and controls the extraction process. Designed with a closure that prevents honey from leaking out of the frame, it only allows honey to flow out when the valve is opened. Be sure to always close the valve when not in use to avoid honey from drying or insects from entering the frames.
Super
This is the housing for the flow frames. Made in different sizes, winning buyers should ensure the supers they purchase fit standard hive models. Most supers are also equipped with removable frames. This feature allows easy access for both maintenance and harvesting.
Lid
The function of the lid is to cover the flow hive and maintain proper internal conditions for the bees. The lid also allows for the addition of external beekeeping equipment such as feeders or medications.
For longevity and optimal performance, regular maintenance is crucial. Here are some common maintenance requirements:
Regular cleaning
Cleaning should be done using warm water and a gentle, bee-safe detergent. Harsh chemicals can leave residues that are harmful to bees. Take care not to scratch or damage the frame's internal components, as this can hinder the flow mechanism.
Inspect for wear and tear
During regular inspections, check for signs of wear and tear on both the flow frames and the super. Look for cracks, breaks, or any other damage that could affect the functionality of the system. Replace damaged components promptly to avoid disruptions in honey production.
Sealing and lubrication
If any cracks or other damages are spotted in the super, a good-quality wood sealer can be used to fix the cracks. Lubricate the honey valve occasionally with a bee-safe lubricant to ensure smooth operation and prevent sticking.
Regular inspections
Be sure to do regular inspections on the flow frames. Look for any signs of sugar that has been left behind during the extraction process. This can block future honey flow. If present, remove it immediately to prevent future blockages.
Dos
DOs that retailers will advise their customers to follow include regularly inspecting the hive to ensure that the bees are healthy and that the flow frames are functioning properly. It is also important to clean the hive regularly to prevent disease and pests. More importantly, only use bee-safe cleaning products that do not leave harmful residues.
Honeys harvested from the flow hive should also be properly stored in clean, dry containers. Special care and attention should be given to damaged or broken flow frames. Repair or replace them promptly to maintain the hive's efficiency.
Most importantly, buyers should always wear protective clothing when working with the flow hive to avoid bee stings. They should also ensure the space between frames is correctly spaced to provide more space for the bees.
Don’ts
Retailers will also have to discourage their customers from doing several things. For instance, they should not use harsh chemicals when cleaning the hive. Additionally, they should avoid disturbing the bees more often.
Excessive handling of the frames or opening the hive too frequently can stress the bee colony. This, in turn, affects their productivity. They should also avoid replacing honey with sugar water or other substances that are harmful to bees. Finally, they should not neglect hive maintenance. This includes ignoring signs of pest infestations or diseases.
Yes, they really work. However, how effectively they work depends on several factors. These include the design, management practices, and local bee populations. Again, the effectiveness also depends on customer preferences and honey quality. The good news is that the flow hives can still work even if the correct factors are not considered. Although they might not be as productive, they can still be used to produce good honey.
The amount of honey each hive can produce depends on several factors. Some of the key factors include the size of the hive, bee health, and environmental conditions. Moreover, the amount of flow frame space also affects honey production. A flow hive with 6 flow frames can produce around 43 pounds of honey each year.
Unlike other types of honey, flow hive honey is harvested through specially designed frames and trays. This honey is also unfiltered, raw, and pure. This means it has not been processed or pasteurized. As a result, it retains all its natural nutrients, enzymes, and flavors. Most importantly, flow hive honey has a distinct flavor that depends on the floral sources nearby.
The only major difference between a flow hive and a traditional hive is how honey is harvested. In a traditional hive, honey is harvested using an extractor. This is a piece of equipment that spins honeycomb frames to remove honey. On the other hand, flow hives use patented technology. This technology automatically parallels honey without disturbing bees.
