Collecting Maple Sap
Buckets Pros/Cons
The traditional way of collecting maple sap to produce maple syrup is with buckets. The use of buckets has both pros and cons.
Tubing Systems Pros/Cons
The more modern way of collecting maple sap to produce maple syrup is with tubing systems. The use of tubing has both pros and cons.
Tubing System Types
Tubing systems have begun to dominate maple sap production in Pennsylvania. Currently, four of every five maple producers use some tubing. Utilization of tubing decreases the labor involved in sap collection and may allow a producer to spend time more efficiently. This publication outlines the proper way to install a tubing system. It is designed to be used by those new to using tubing systems
How Aerial System Works
Aerial tubing systems are set up so that at every step in the process the sap is flowing down hill or is under some sort of positive pressure. Dips in the line will reduce flow dramatically. This should be considered at all steps of the installation process.
Aerial System Photo Gallery
Aerial tubing systems are set up so that at every step in the process the sap is flowing down hill or is under some sort of positive pressure. Dips in the line will reduce flow dramatically. In general, a tubing system consists of a storage tanks with a mainline feeding sap into it. The sap runs from the tree through a spile, and into the dropline, from there it goes into the lateral through a mainline connector through the mainline and into the storage tank.
Artificial Vacuum
To increase your sap flow from your aerial tubing system, consider adding an artificial vacuum to the system.
Tubing System Installation
Upgrading your Sap Collection Method
