8 frame medium super (click on image for larger view)
The Hive Body Plan
A colony uses the first hive body to raise brood. This is the component used by the queen to lay eggs and where the young larvae are raised. Each additional body is called a honey super and is used to store pollen and nectar.
Hive bodies take a lot of abuse in the field. The beekeeper uses a hive tool to pry hive bodies apart that are glued together by propolis. Propolis is a resinous substance collected by honey bees from tree buds. It is used to fill crevices. There are many sizes available in the industry although sticking to one size is highly recommended. The uniformity of one size makes the bee operation completely interchangeable and it is by far the most flexible configuration. An 8 frame Medium hive body when full of wax and honey can weigh up to 40 lbs.
The hive should be tough for the field, not prone to warp, rot resistant, insect resistant, and as lightweight as possible. It should reduce thermal transfer yet dissipate excessive moisture inside the hive as well as be waterproof.
Hive Body Plan
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Materials List |
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| Premium Grade, very occasional soft knots (repaired), no wane Surfaced 1 side 2 Edges |
2 |
.875 x 6.625 x 20″ | |
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2 |
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.875 x 6.625″ x 14″ | |
| Stainless Steel Trim Screws |
8 |
#7 x 2 1/4″ | |
| Titebond III Wood Glue | |||
A detailed schematic and diagrams along with a YouTube video will be posted soon showing how to set up a jig and router, and how to bevel and undercut the hand holds. Sign up for product updates and you will be the first to know once this information is available.