Tubing System Installation
Introduction
The sap collection and handling method dictates the quality of the finished product and the amount of profit earned. During the late 1950's, plastic tubing was invented to was sap collection. Research conducted in the first 20 years improved the performance and efficiency of tubing installations. Studies have also shown that plastic tubing will produce higher yields of cleaner sap than the traditional bucket method of collecting sap and greatly reduce the labor involved with sap collection. The following information, based on research and practical applications, provides the basic information and techniques recommended for installing a tubing system for the first time. It may also be used as a resource to upgrade your current tubing system with a more efficient layout. Remember, proper design, installation, and maintenance of a tubing system goes along with correct tapping procedures and sound sugarbush management.
Tubing has begun to take over the maple industry in Pennsylvania. Installation of tubing can reduce the time necessary to process maple sap into syrup. This publication will provide the basic for tubing installation. For additional instructions, consult your local Cooperative Extension office, there is one in every corner of Pennsylvania and New York.
