Sap collection tour:
Page 3

     

Spiles are inserted into maple tree tapholes and have three important functions. First, they allow sap to flow into the collection system (either a bucket or plastic tubing). Second, they physically support the sap collection system, and third, they provide a seal against the spread of microorganisms through the taphole and into the tree.

Metal spiles are used with buckets, while plastic spiles, are used with plastic tubing. The plastic spile is favored by large-scale, commercial maple syrup producers primarily because it makes a tighter seal with the plastic tubing used in these operations.

Spiles are inserted into the tree gently by hand and then "seated" with a mallet or hammer.

Proper seating is important to ensure the spile is fully inserted into the taphole, though too much force during seating causes the bark to split and results in sap leakage and tree wounds.

Once the spile is properly seated, the plastic tubing (or bucket) is attached, and the system remains in place until the sap season is completed. The season is generally finished when sap takes on an unpleasant flavor, decreases in sugar content, or stops flowing.