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Syrup Filtering

Care of Filters

• DO NOT store filters in moth balls, cedar closets, airtight containers, or near scented materials.

• CLEAN filters thoroughly, dry thoroughly, and store in a cloth bag in clean, dry, airy, storage. 

• CHLORINE BLEACH should NOT be used to clean filters. In spite of repeated washings, rinsings, and airings, filters which have been washed with bleach impart off-flavors to syrup.

• Scented cleansers, fabric softeners, and "dryer sheets" should NOT be used.

New filters and pre-filters must be thoroughly BOILED in CLEAN water (not in sap pans) and AIR DRIED (in the sun if possible.)

Use the "SNIFF" test to provide an added check for your filters. Musty old filters, and new chemical-smelling filters should NOT be used. Filters can impart off-flavors to syrups, making the product unfit for sale.

The use of synthetic filters as pre-filters (above "cone" type or "flat type" filters) save much labor. When they are used, more effective filtration results, and the heavy filters may be in service longer between cleanings. Wash and dry pre-filters often in pure, hot water.

Old, threadbare filters will cause cloudy syrup. Holding filters up to bright light will sometimes reveal filter problems. Cloudy syrup must be graded substandard.

Filter HOT syrup (210 degrees F.) IMMEDIATELY after removal from the pan. Do not stir syrup through the filter.

Pressure filters
All pressure filter parts should be thoroughly cleaned with hot water prior to each reassembly.

Filter plates have numbers or patterns which indicate how the filter press should be assembled. Line up each numbered plate and smooth each cloth so that there are NO CREASES. Put a thin rod through the plates during assembly to help maintain correct position. Care taken with the assembly of pressure filter units will help to prevent niter in finished syrup, and loss of finished syrup.

Experiment to find the exact amount of filter aid (Diatomaceous Earth) needed to filter the syrup.

Filter papers should be changed often enough and the pressure regulator should be watched to avoid building up of pressure and bursting of filter paper; careful monitoring of the filter press will help to avoid cloudy syrup.

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