THE PRODUCTION OF HONEY. 
483 
machine (Fig. 120), which needs but little explanation. 
The frame carrying the comb is clamped by screws 
(j-, s) in an iron frame in which it is held 
centrally by a stop. The iron frame runs on a V-shaped 
guide {v, 7 j), and is pushed by the handle {/i) against 
the knife (k), and a similar one on its back face 
attached to kh. A drawing cut is made as the 
knives stand at the low angle of 20° while the blades 
are set slightly inclined towards the comb at the edge, 
s h s 
Fig. 120 .— Hooker’s U.vcappi.ng Machine. 
i', V, V-shaped Guide; i.f., Iron Frame ; c. Comb; k, Knife; s, s. Screw Clamps; 
h, Handle ; kh, Knife-holder. 
SO as to clear behind and prevent clinging. Adjust- 
ment can be made for variation in comb-thickness. 
Other forms are also before the bee-keeping world, 
one of much promise having a perpendicular shaft 
covered with projecting points. This, driven by a 
wheel and crank, revolves rapidly, uncapping the 
comb, which is pushed past it, guided by a groove. 
Simple experiments show that a very rapid move- 
ment uncaps without any tearing of the cell walls, 
and it is worth remembrance that each time a comb 
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