A medium-depth honey super is a hive box measuring exactly 6 5/8 inches in height, designed specifically for the storage of surplus honey. Functioning as part of the hive's "superstructure," it is placed above the brood boxes during nectar flows. This size is widely favored by beekeepers as a convenient compromise between heavy deep boxes and smaller shallow boxes.
The medium-depth super strikes a balance between weight and capacity, making it a "convenient" choice for harvesting. However, its dimensions present a unique manufacturing challenge: the 6 5/8-inch height cannot be cut efficiently from standard-sized lumber.
The Purpose of the Super
Defining the "Superstructure"
The term "super" is actually an abbreviation for superstructure.
The lower portion of the hive, where bees reside year-round, is considered the base "structure" or brood chamber.
Managing the Nectar Flow
Any boxes added on top of this base are part of the superstructure.
These are strictly designated for the storage of excess honey during the nectar flow.
Physical Specifications
Precise Dimensions
The defining characteristic of this box is its vertical height of 6 5/8 inches.
This dimension distinguishes it from "deep" boxes (used for brood) and "shallow" supers (used for lighter honey loads).
The Convenience Factor
The primary reference notes that this size is considered "convenient" for honey collection.
While the reference explicitly states that shallow supers (5 11/16 inches) weigh about 35 pounds full, the medium super allows for slightly more honey storage without becoming unmanageably heavy.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Material Efficiency Issues
The most significant technical drawback of the medium-depth super is related to construction, not beekeeping.
Because the box is 6 5/8 inches high, it cannot be cut efficiently from standard-sized lumber.
Manufacturing Implications
Standard lumber boards usually come in nominal widths that do not divide evenly into 6 5/8-inch sections.
This results in wasted wood during production, potentially increasing the cost or effort required for beekeepers who build their own equipment.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
If you are deciding on the right equipment for your apiary, consider these factors:
- If your primary focus is handling convenience: The medium super offers an excellent middle ground, providing reasonable honey capacity without the excessive weight of larger boxes.
- If your primary focus is DIY cost efficiency: Be prepared for higher material waste, as standard lumber dimensions do not align perfectly with the 6 5/8-inch cut requirement.
Ultimately, the medium-depth super is the standard for beekeepers who prioritize a manageable harvest weight over construction efficiency.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Specification | Beekeeping Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 6 5/8 inches | Ideal mid-size between deep and shallow boxes |
| Function | Superstructure | Dedicated exclusively for surplus honey storage |
| Full Weight | ~40-50 lbs | Easier to lift and harvest than heavy deep boxes |
| Lumber Fit | Non-standard | May result in more wood waste during DIY builds |
| Usage | Seasonal | Added above brood chambers during nectar flows |
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