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Honey Extractors
Honey extractors are essential pieces of beekeeping equipment that make the process of harvesting honey much easier and more efficient. They work by using centrifugal force to extract honey from the honeycomb without damaging the frames. This allows beekeepers to reuse the frames, which helps maintain the hive’s structure and reduces the amount of work required for the bees to rebuild.
When you harvest honey, the extractor spins the frames rapidly, causing the honey to be flung out of the comb cells and collect at the bottom of the extractor. The honey is then drained through a honey gate or spout, ready to be bottled or stored. This process is much faster and more effective than manual scraping, and it helps preserve the honeycomb so the bees can use it again.
Honey extractors are available in different styles and configurations, including manual and electric models. The type of extractor you choose depends on the size of your operation and how often you harvest honey. Mann Lake offers a range of high-quality honey extractors designed to meet the needs of both small-scale hobbyists and large commercial beekeepers.
How Honey Extractors Work
The honey extraction process is straightforward but highly effective. First, the beekeeper loads the frames containing honeycomb into the basket or drum inside the extractor. Depending on the type of extractor, the frames may be positioned radially or tangentially.
When the extractor is activated, either by a hand crank or an electric motor, the basket begins to spin rapidly. The centrifugal force causes the honey to be pulled out of the comb cells. Radial extractors allow you to extract honey from both sides of the frame at the same time, while tangential extractors require you to flip the frame to extract honey from the other side. Once the honey is extracted, it collects at the bottom of the extractor and can be drained through a honey gate into jars or containers.
This process allows you to harvest honey more efficiently while protecting the integrity of the wax comb. This means the bees can reuse the comb, saving them time and energy when rebuilding the hive.
Manual and Electric Honey Extractors for Sale
When selecting a honey extractor, the first decision you’ll need to make is whether you want a manual or electric model.
- Manual extractors are operated by turning a hand crank, giving you full control over the spinning speed. They’re more affordable and ideal for small-scale beekeeping operations. While they require more physical effort, they allow you to handle the honey extraction process at your own pace.
- Electric extractors use a motor to spin the frames, making the process faster and easier. They are more efficient and ideal for larger-scale honey extraction. Many electric models come with variable speed settings, allowing you to adjust the rotation speed based on the type of honeycomb you're working with.
Another important consideration is whether you need a radial or tangential extractor. Radial extractors allow honey to be extracted from both sides of the frame at once, making them more efficient for larger operations. Tangential extractors require you to flip the frame to extract honey from both sides, but they tend to be more affordable and are a great choice for smaller beekeeping setups.
The size of the extractor also matters. Extractors range from small two-frame models for hobbyists to large commercial-scale units capable of handling up to 80 frames at a time. If you have a small number of hives, a two or three-frame model may be enough. However, if you have a larger operation or plan to expand, a high-capacity electric extractor will save you time and effort in the long run.
Featured Mann Lake Honey Extractors
| Frame Capacity | 8 shallow / 4 deep | 8 shallow / 4 deep | 24-frame | 48-frame | 2–3 frames | 2 frames |
| Type | Electric | Manual | Electric | Electric | Manual | Manual |
| Radial / Tangential | Radial | Radial | Radial | Radial | Tangential | Tangential |
| Key Features | Compact, versatile basket | Compact, versatile basket | Tapered bottom with center drain | Side discharge design | Simple hand crank, small scale | Lightweight plastic, easy to use |
| Frame Capacity | 24 frames | 6 shallow / 3 deep | 18 shallow / 9 deep | 80 frames | 40 frames |
| Type | Electric | Electric | Electric | Electric | Electric |
| Radial / Tangential | Radial | Radial | Radial | Radial (Horizontal) | Radial (Horizontal) |
| Key Features | Auger-assisted honey flow | Motorized, medium capacity | Mid-range, electric motor | Commercial scale, integrated tables | Large scale, includes tables & pump |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best method of honey extraction?
The best method of honey extraction is by using a honey extractor, which uses centrifugal force to remove honey from the comb without damaging it.
How long does honey extraction take?
Honey extraction takes 15 to 30 minutes per batch, depending on the extractor type and frame count.
How do honey extractors work?
Honey extractors spin frames rapidly, using centrifugal force to pull honey from the comb.
How to tell if honey is ready to harvest?
Honey is ready to harvest when the comb is capped with wax and moisture content is around 18%.
What is the best type of honey extractor?
Radial electric extractors are the best for large operations, while manual tangential extractors are ideal for small-scale beekeepers