Honey drum blanket heater

The heating blanket for honey drums is the optimal solution for decrystallization without compromising the product's quality. This natural crystallization phenomenon occurs when the sugars present in honey, such as glucose, form crystals due to the oversaturation of the solution. The heating blanket allows you to reverse this process in a controlled and efficient manner, ensuring that the honey returns to its liquid state without damaging its properties.

Why does honey crystallize?

Honey contains about 80% sugars dissolved in 18% water, with glucose and fructose being the main components. Glucose, less soluble in water, tends to crystallize quickly, especially in honeys with a higher concentration of this sugar, such as rapeseed or mustard honey. When honey crystallizes, microcrystals first form, making it cloudy, and then these crystals grow, making the honey thick and opaque. This process is influenced by factors such as humidity, the presence of particles, and temperature.

To return honey to its liquid state, heat must be applied, but it is essential to control both the temperature and heating time to avoid losing the product’s qualities. The heating blanket is specifically designed for this purpose, offering uniform heating that prevents damage to the honey.

Controlled decrystallization with the heating blanket

Unlike other heating methods, such as ovens or microwaves, which can overheat honey and deteriorate its properties, the heating blanket offers a much more controlled process. This device allows heat to be applied evenly and at the appropriate temperature, maintaining HMF (hydroxymethylfurfural) levels within permitted parameters and preserving honey's enzymatic activity, key indicators of its freshness and quality.

Technical specifications:

• Voltage: 220V
• Nominal power: 2000W
• Adjustable temperature range: 0-99℃ (digital control)
• Nominal current: 0.45A ~ 20A
• Dimensions (LxW): 1900x880 mm

High-quality materials:

• Inner layer: Aluminum-coated fiberglass fabric, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Middle layer: Aramid fiber insulation (AFRP) and heating cable, providing excellent heat retention.
• Outer layer: Oxford cloth, wear-resistant, fireproof, and waterproof, designed for intensive use.

Key advantages:

• Adjustable temperature: Precise control to avoid overheating and safely decrystallize honey.
• Uniform heating: The heating blanket evenly distributes heat around the drum, eliminating cold spots.
• Advanced safety: Includes an overheating switch that automatically shuts off the device if a dangerous temperature is detected.
• Easy installation and handling: Its flexibility allows it to be easily adjusted to the drum, making it easy to put on and take off.

Practical use for beekeepers:

The heating blanket is an indispensable tool for beekeepers who regularly need to decrystallize honey. Its design allows for a controlled process, respecting the required quality parameters and preserving the honey's properties. It is ideal for use in both small productions and larger honey facilities.

How to use the heating blanket:

1. Wrap the blanket around the drum of crystallized honey.
2. Set the desired temperature using the digital control. Fine crystals begin to dissolve at 28°C, while coarser crystals require temperatures above 40°C.
3. Keep in mind that the honey’s temperature may be lower than the blanket’s setting due to heat dissipation through the drum’s steel. To ensure precise control, it is recommended to use a probe thermometer to monitor the honey’s internal temperature and adjust the blanket accordingly.
4. Monitor the temperature with a probe thermometer to ensure the honey does not exceed 40°C and retains its properties intact.

Conclusion:

The heating blanket is the ideal solution for any beekeeper looking to decrystallize honey efficiently without compromising product quality. With its durable, flexible, and easy-to-use design, this device ensures that honey retains all its natural properties while remaining in a liquid state for handling or packaging.