Worldwide Beekeeping
Beekeeping => General Beekeeping => Topic started by: DMSCHALL on August 07, 2014, 08:40:34 pm
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I just received my 5 5/8 beeswax wired foundation for a 6 5/8 frame from Mann Lake. When I went to install the the foundation in the frame I found that the sheet is actually a little too wide in length and the sheet bows in the middle. Is this a common issue? How do I fix it?
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too wide? I have not seen that before.. Have seen to long top to bottom.. In fact I have about 300 sheets of wired wax for deeps that I cut down for mediums when I need them..
If you NEED them now just trim the ends, if not I would contact Mann Lake. Are your frames standard width commercial frames?
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I'm sorry I should have worded it better, but yes too long from top to bottom. They are standard commercial frames. Best way to trim that down with a box cutter or what seems to work best for you?
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I would think a good box cutter would do the job.
By the way, WELCOME to the forum! :welcome:
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That is usually because they are designed to go into split bottom rails and you have grooved. I use tin snips.. a little bulky to use but cut the wires easily. I can do three at a time if I am careful.
I also had issues with foundation not hanging flat and this was pointed out to me last winter, so just passing it along!!! Not trying to be a wiseguy :D
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Thanks a lot guys! It's getting pretty hot here in Nebraska and I was getting awfully frustrated and discouraged!
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Yes. Tin snips are the best bet for this. I do it every time i install Foundation.
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I get the original problem ...... foundation TOO WIDE.
I am, of course, using weird UK frames that have grooved side bars and two piece bottom bars. Since the foundation is not horizontally wired it is easy to trim a thin strip off the foundation with a craft knife.
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Welcome DMSCHALL to the forum, hope we can help you along with the bees, can't do much about the weather though.
Ken
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I haven't had an issue like that but I have always used grooved bottom bars. The only issue I've had is that the comb still tends to warp or bow even though the crimped wire is there to prevent that. I'd run fishing line from the sides to keep the comb centered.
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I use all slotted bottom frames and don't have that problem.I also crosswire and embed the cross wires into the foundation. It always stays straight.
WELCOME.....
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As Iddee posted the more precautions You put in place to support the foundation The less likely you will have a problem. In judging when it comes to judging frames of honey we also look at the quality of the frame. How it is assembled and nails whether the frame has been cross wired If needed and that the comb will stand up and last in any type of extractor.
There are many designs of frames Kelley's lists 6 variations for their deep frames, and 7 styles of foundation. If you placed you frame and foundation order together, even if you specified the wrong foundation type for your frames the order desk, order puller or order shiper should have cought it as it has been complained about enough in the forums and beekeepers complaining bact to the companys. If they were purchest at different times or from different companies this is likely if foundation type is not specified as there and so many frame foundation combos.
To any new beekeepers out their getting into bees pick a style of frames and stick with it. it will save grief later on. As LazyBkpr can attest to in having foundation that doesn't fit the frames. there is a work around but it is a lot more work and aggravating.
And welcome to the forum, Come back to ask question or if you just need moral support and reassurance.