Hi all,

     Obviously if my operation were big enough or profitable enough I
would go directly to a silver queen or a dakota uncapper.  However,
reality as it is my sideline operation produces a few drums per year.
Each year as I grow I bring another bigger or automated system into the
operation.

   With this background does anyone have experience with vibrating knife
uncappers?   I've done some internet probing with no results.

   I've uncovered a woodman vibrating uncapper--which was still in the
crate--though it was a used machine.    Been in the back of a garage
for 20ish years.  Thought I'd clean it up, weld up some new stainless
parts & see what it would do.  Problem is I will not be able to get any
replacement parts & it would be a fixer upper.

  Looks like Walter Kelley has one for around $350.  This might be a
reasonable jump for my operation if these devises are effective/useful.

   Since there is so little discussion it leads me to think they may be
of little use and my money may be better saved for a better system.  Of
course I've got everything in for the season so I have time to mull
this over.

Thanx to any & all that might be able to provide some insight into the
strengths &/or weaknesses of these uncappers.  Additionally,  I am
curious about any historical tidbits that might accompany there
development or use!


Mike Griggs
Entomologist/ Support Scientist
Plant Protection Research Unit
USDA ARS, U.S. Plant, Soil & Nutrition Lab.
Tower Road, Ithaca, NY  14853
http://www.ppru.cornell.edu/PPRU.htm

phone:  607-255-1085
fax:        607-255-1132
email:    [log in to unmask]

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