208 MONEY IN BEES IN AUSTRALASIA 



MELTING WAX AT OUT-YARDS. 



The fact that large numbers of bee^ are kept in yards 

 situated at considerable distances from the apiarists' 

 homes, necessitates the use of whatever water is at hand. 

 In a great many instances the water is obtained from 

 springs, wells, or creeks, etc., and as is well known, the 

 water from these sources is sometimes highly mineralised. 

 Many bee-farmers prefer to render the wax at the out- 

 apiaries, as the blocks are more portable than combs or 

 cappings, etc. 



When one is so situated, it is advisable to determine 

 the chemical contents of the water in use ; otherwise there 

 is considerable danger of spoiling the wax. If one is 

 unable to obtain rain water for treating wax, and is 

 compelled to use water described as "alkaline," it is 

 necessary to use an acid, which, by combining with the 

 lime, prevents it affecting the wax. A number of acids 

 will accomplish this purpose. Vinegar would suit if only 

 a small amount is to be treated; should a quantity be on 

 hand it is cheaper to use sulphuric acid. 



It is found in practice that a tablespoonful of acid to 

 the gallon is sufficient. If the wax is to be melted in tin, 

 on no account use nitric acid. It is best to use a wooden 

 vat and a steam pipe; failing this, a black-iron vessel 

 does very well. To prevent the acid affecting the metal 

 and thereby discolouring the wax, first heat the iron and 

 then rub over the inside with a piece of beef suet. Caution : 

 when using any of the above acids, add them to cold 

 water. A certain text-book advises "bring wax to near 

 boiling point, then thoroughly stir in the acid;" tl^is 

 advice, if followed, would probably create an explosion. 

 Needless to say, the acids are deadly poisonous, and if 

 allowed to drop on one's clothing will burn holes therein, 



COLOUR, ETC. 



Combs containing any quantity of pollen (Flatweed 

 especially), if brought to a vigorous boil will 

 usually result in staining the wax slightly. The 



