Cottager and Smallholder 37 



Another method is to get a large shallow tin, put a 

 partition of perforated zinc across the centre, break up the 

 combs to be melted, and put sufficient on one side of the zinc 

 to cover the bottom, cover with a sheet of glass, and stand it 

 facing the sun ; the half containing the comb should be raised 

 at least six inches ; this can be done by putting a brick under 

 one end. The sun's rays striking the glass will generate 

 sufficient heat to melt the wax, and it will be strained by 

 running through the perforated zinc. The dross is then cleared 

 out and a fresh lot of comb put in. Too much comb must 



Fia. 46. 



not be put in at one time, or the wax will not run freely 

 from the waste. 



A solar wax extractor. Fig. 46, may be purchased, and, 

 although it entails expense, the amount spent is soon saved by 

 the extra wax obtained which would otherwise be wasted. 



Another method is by means of steam. An extractor, 

 Fig. 47, consists of a bottom pan, which is filled with 

 rain water. On the top of this fits another pan, with a false 

 bottom held about one inch clear from the sides by means of 

 stays. On this bottom stands a perforated tin cage, in which 

 the pieces of comb are placed. The lid is put on and the 

 extractor put on the fire; thfl team from the boiling water 



