Re: [Harp-L] Bee'swaxin'

["Tim Moyer" <wmharps@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

samblancato wrote:
> While the comb is warming up I pop the Pyrex dish in the micro
> wave and melt the wax.  This takes about 15 minutes.  
<snip>
> I read post to harp-L warning about the wax catching fire in 
> the microwave but I've never had that problem.  

Not to try and dampen Sam's enthusiasm for sealed combs, but this is 
VERY dangerous.  Remember that beeswax is FLAMABLE.  Heating a flamable 
substance in the microwave is NOT a good idea.  There are lots of 
inexpensive ways to heat wax.  Go to a beauty supply store and you can 
buy a wax pot designed for melting wax for less than $30.  This is a 
lot less than the deductible on your insurance when you burn house to 
the ground, or the cost of some skin grafts.  Alternatively, a double 
boiler works well on an electric heating element.  

> The comb will fizz a little as the wax soaks in. 

This happens when the comb and/or wax are overheated.  I recommend 
using a candy thermometer (I got mine for about $5) to gradually raise 
the temperature of the wax to about 200 degrees F, and keep it there.  
If the comb or the wax are too hot, the wax will actually boil slightly 
(the fizz) when the comb is submerged.  This outgassing is preventing 
the wood from uptaking the wax.  fizz == too hot.  

> You need to watch you don't char the comb in the oven while 
> it's heating up.  Set the oven to about 250 F.  

Also, bear in mind that overheating the comb can cause it to warp 
before you get it into the wax.  I only preheat my combs for about 3 
minutes at 200 degrees F before submerging them.  

It's MUCH safer to use food-safe wood finish, plus the finish lasts 
longer, and you don't risk burning your house down.

-tim