Fig. 15.
Fig. 16.
"Compound Bar-frame.—This is a contrivance of my own, which I have found very advantageous in enabling me to use frames in stock hives and bars in supers without forfeiting the advantages arising from the unlimited interchangeability of every comb in every hive and super in the apiary. Its construction will be readily understood by an inspection of the annexed sketch, [fig. 16], in which the comb-bar is shown slightly raised from its frame. The bar itself is 131/4 inches long by seven-eighths wide and three-eighths thick; these dimensions must be rigidly adhered to, as every comb-bar should fit every hive and super in the apiary.[4] The slips of wood forming the frame are seven-eighths of an inch wide and five-sixteenths of an inch thick, with the exception of the projections at the top, which are the same thickness as the bars, and are five-eighths of an inch long. When the comb-bar is in its place the whole forms a frame 13 inches long by 71/4 inches high (inside measure), with a five-eighth projection at each end, which rests in its appropriate notch in either the back or front of the hive. The accompanying engraving, [fig. 17], represents the frame filled with comb, in which state the bar becomes so firmly cemented to the frame as to admit of its being handled with the greatest facility.
[4] It is a good plan to commence by making a pattern bar of mahogany, which should be taken are of and used as a guide whenever comb-bars are required.
Fig. 17.
Fig. 18.