Plastic Queen Excluder – UV resistant

A plastic queen excluder serves the same fundamental purpose as its metal counterpart in beekeeping, but differs in material and some aspects of design. Here’s a description of a plastic queen excluder:

1. Material: Our plastic queen excluders are made from Polypropylene. This makes them lightweight, resistant to weathering, and easy to handle.

2. Design: Similar to metal queen excluders, plastic excluders feature a grid pattern with gaps that allow worker bees to pass through while restricting the movement of the queen bee.
3. Size and Compatibility: Plastic queen excluders are manufactured to fit standard hive sizes, such as Langstroth hives or other hive configurations commonly used in beekeeping. They are available in various dimensions to match different hive types.
4. Function: The primary function of a plastic queen excluder is to confine the queen bee to the brood chamber, preventing her from laying eggs in the honey supers. This separation helps keep the honey free from brood and ensures cleaner harvesting.
5. Advantages:
   • Lightweight: Plastic queen excluders are lighter than metal ones, making them easier to handle and manipulate during hive inspections and maintenance.
   • Durable: Polypropylene used are durable and resistant to moisture and mild chemicals, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance.
   • Economical: They are often more cost-effective compared to metal queen excluders, which can be advantageous for beekeepers managing multiple hives.
6. Maintenance: Plastic queen excluders are relatively easy to clean. They can be rinsed with water or cleaned with mild soap if necessary. They do not corrode like metal excluders, which simplifies their upkeep.
7. Usage: Like metal excluders, plastic queen excluders are placed between the brood chamber and honey supers within the hive. This strategic placement helps optimize hive management by segregating where the queen can lay eggs and where surplus honey can be stored.

In summary, a plastic queen excluder is a practical and cost-effective tool for beekeepers aiming to manage hive productivity and honey purity. It provides the essential function of confining the queen bee while offering advantages in weight, durability, and ease of maintenance compared to traditional metal excluders.