Oxalic Acid Sublimator 12 Volt (250 W)

The oxalic acid sublimator is used to treat bees against the Varroa mite. Treatment is carried out by fumigating the bees with oxalic acid vapour through the lower entrance or through a special opening in the rear wall of the hive.

When oxalic acid crystals enter the heating chamber, a chemical process takes place (sublimation), in which the acid crystals pass from a solid state into a gaseous state. Once inside the hive, the vapour fills the free space and the reverse crystallisation process begins. After filling the hive space, the vapours settle on the frames, bees and hive walls.

Fumigation can be carried out throughout the beekeeping season, from April to the end of November. This method is safe for the bees themselves!!! Fumigation should be carried out twice in spring at an interval of 4 days. It should also be carried out in autumn after the honey harvest, 4 times at an interval of 4 days. It is advisable to carry out a control fumigation with the sublimator in late autumn, when the daytime temperature is not below +10°C. Fumigation can also be carried out in summer and 7 days before the honey harvest, as the acid vapours are not chemical but organic and do not affect the quality of the honey. In one fumigation procedure, mite drop reaches up to 95% of all mites in the hive, except for mites in sealed brood. The maximum effect occurs on the third day. Acid crystals remain in the hive at average humidity for up to 10 days, and mite drop is observed throughout this period.

This device allows continuous work when fumigating bee colonies and provides accurate temperature control. With the electronic PID temperature controller, you can precisely control the temperature and avoid overheating the acid crystals. It is known that when oxalic acid crystals are heated above 250°C, they turn into carbon monoxide and pose a danger to bees!!!

The acid used for fumigation should have a purity level of 99.6% or higher. The dosage is calculated as 2 g of acid crystals per 10-frame hive (Dadant) and 1.5 g per 10-frame hive (Langstroth).

Using the oxalic acid sublimator:

• Connect the device to a 12 V power source and at least 150 W (car batteries are not suitable!)
• Wait for the device to heat up to the set temperature of 220 degrees.
• Measure the acid crystals into the caps.
• Turn the device upside down with the heating chamber facing upwards and fit the cap with the acid.
• Insert it into the entrance or into the special opening in the rear wall of the hive in the upside-down position, then turn the device over.
• The evaporation time for one dose is 20 to 25 seconds.

It is recommended to work at a heating chamber temperature of 200 to 240°C.

WARNING: oxalic acid vapours after sublimation are dangerous to human health!!! When working, respiratory protection, safety goggles and gloves must be used. Work must be carried out against the wind. Be attentive and careful when working with an electrical device and follow safety rules. The device must be used outdoors only.