DIY Evaporator

Measure the length and width of your steam pans, then design a plan for your evaporator. The evaporator will need to be just long and wide enough for the steam pans to set on the top securely. Subtract about 1/2 inch from each measurement to find the length and width of the top of your evaporator. The evaporator should be approximately 24-inches high to allow for proper heating, while giving you enough space to load the wood and light the fire. Most evaporators are U-shaped to allow plenty of room for the fire to burn.

Prepare the area for your evaporator by removing any flammable items and cleaning the ground around the box. Measure and mark the dimensions specified in your plan, using string or chalk.

Lay out the cement bricks according to the dimensions laid out in your plan. Stack the bricks without mortar first, to ensure the dimensions will properly fit your steam pans. Then break it down to build your permanent structure.

Lay the base bricks, then apply a thin, even layer of mortar to the top. Stack the next row of cement bricks on top of this base. Repeat this process until the evaporator structure is at the height indicated by your plans. Allow the mortar to dry thorough before proceeding.

Measure and cut a piece of sheet metal to the size of the opening at the open end of the "U" on the evaporator. Lean this piece of metal against the opening to form a fire door. This will allow you to have better control of the fire for safety.

Place your steam pans on top of the evaporator. Light a fire and fill the steam pans with syrup, to begin your evaporation process.