1VK85CF

Overview

The Vulcan Hart 1VK85CF PowerFry5 is a freestanding commercial gas fryer with one full-pot fry tank and an 85–90 lb oil capacity. It combines programmable computer controls, a FivePass heat transfer system and a built-in KleenScreen PLUS filtration system. The stainless steel frypot and cabinet are suited to back-of-house use, while four casters make the unit movable; two casters lock to help stabilize it in position. The fryer is listed with a 90,000 BTU input and is available in natural gas and liquid propane configurations. Confirm the gas type for the exact unit before installation.

Key Features

• Programmable computer controls: The digital display shows oil temperature, with a stated operating range of 200°F to 390°F. Operators can program up to 10 menu timers, display temperatures in Fahrenheit or Celsius, and use the USB interface for offline programming.
• FivePass heat transfer: The system distributes heat through the oil to reduce recovery lag. The product information reports 78% thermal efficiency and 65% cooking efficiency.
• SoftStart ignition and melt modes: SoftStart gradually warms the oil during initial heating. Three melt modes help prevent solid shortening from scorching.
• KleenScreen PLUS filtration: A one-touch control activates the filter motor and pump. The drain-valve interlock shuts off the burners when the drain valve is opened. The filter pan holds up to 110 lb, and the pump circulates at 8 gallons per minute.
• Construction and included items: The frypot and cabinet are stainless steel. The fryer is supplied with two baskets with plastic-coated handles, a tank brush and a clean-out rod.
• Temperature and safety controls: The fryer has a high-limit shutoff. The listed idle-temperature setting uses 6,298 BTU per hour, and the flue temperature is stated not to exceed 500°F at maximum production rate.

Specifications

• Brand: Vulcan Hart
• Model: 1VK85CF
• Series: PowerFry5
• Equipment type: Freestanding gas fryer, floor model, full pot
• Fry tank configuration: One tank
• Oil capacity: 85–90 lb; listed capacity is 90 lb
• Gas input: 90,000 BTU
• Gas types identified: Natural gas and liquid propane configurations
• Overall dimensions: 21 in. W × 34⅜ in. D × 47⅛ in. H
• Frying area: 19½ in. W × 18¼ in. D
• Working height: 36¼ in.
• Electrical rating listed for the product: 115 V, 60 Hz, single phase; 7 A; ⅓ HP
• Electrical connection: Cord and NEMA 5-15P plug
• Gas connection: 1¼-in. NPT common rear gas connection
• Temperature range: 200°F–390°F
• Menu programming: 10 menu timers
• Melt modes: 3
• Filter pan capacity: 110 lb
• Filter pump flow rate: 8 GPM
• Fryer baskets: 2, with plastic-coated handles
• Casters: Four 6-in. adjustable casters, two locking and two non-locking; casters ship for end-user installation
• Frypot and cabinet material: Stainless steel
• Certifications identified: ENERGY STAR, NSF and CSA
• Listed warranty: 1-year limited parts and labour; 10-year fry tank

Installation & Requirements

Verify that the gas type and elevation configuration match the fryer data plate before installation. The installation and operation manual for the VK/TR/VFRY gas fryer series specifies a minimum 6-in. clearance at the sides and rear from combustible construction, and 0-in. clearance from non-combustible construction. Maintain 16 in. between the fryer and open-top flame units. Allow space for service and operation, and place the fryer where combustion air is available without obstructing combustion or ventilation airflow.

The manual calls for installation under a hood connected to an exhaust duct. The hood should extend 6 in. beyond both sides of the fryer, and at least 18 in. should be maintained between the flue vent and hood filters. Do not connect the flue directly to the fryer or obstruct exhaust flow; the manual also cautions against a ventilation-system downdraft at the flue opening.

The 1VK85CF product specifications list a 1¼-in. NPT common rear gas connection. The series manual states supply pressure should be 7–9 in. water column for natural gas and 11–12 in. water column for propane, with a maximum building supply pressure of 14 in. water column (½ psi). It specifies a step-down regulator if incoming pressure exceeds that maximum. The manual says not to adjust the gas valve assembly. Check gas-line joints for leaks with soap and water, never an open flame.

The product listing specifies 115 V, 60 Hz, single phase, 7 A, ⅓ HP and a NEMA 5-15P plug. The series manual requires a properly grounded three-prong receptacle and says to follow local codes or, where applicable, the Canadian Electrical Code. For caster-mounted installation, the manual calls for a suitable gas connector, a quick-disconnect device and a restraint to prevent strain on the gas connection. Level the fryer in its final position and lock the caster wheels.

Operation

Set the desired cooking temperature using the computer controls; the stated range is 200°F–390°F. The display can show oil temperature in Fahrenheit or Celsius, and operators can set up to 10 menu timers. Use the melt-cycle function when heating solid shortening. The SoftStart ignition system gradually warms the oil during initial heating.

For filtering, the operating manual says to filter at least once a day and to filter only one fry tank at a time. Keep fryer power on, ensure the filter drawer is completely closed and the suction tube is correctly positioned. The manual recommends adding oil-treatment media before filtering. Filter shortening between 250°F and 350°F; cold oil drains poorly. Open the drain valve to drain oil into the filter pan, then activate the filter pump using the control for the installed control type. Allow the pump to filter for a couple of minutes before closing the drain valve. Close the drain valve and let the tank refill, then confirm oil is between the tank’s MIN and MAX marks before returning to cooking. Never run water or boil-out solution through the filter and motor/pump.

When shutting down or draining a freestanding fryer, turn it off, fit the drain extension, direct the spout into a suitable container and open the drain valve. Close the valve when the container is full or the tank is empty, repeating as needed. The manual warns not to move the fryer with frying compound in the tank. If the high-temperature shutoff trips, do not power the fryer until the shortening is below 300°F; contact a local Vulcan authorized service office if overheating continues.

Cleaning & Maintenance

The operating manual calls for cleaning exterior surfaces at least once daily. Clean regularly with the tank brush and a damp cloth, then polish with a soft, dry cloth. It warns that neglected cleaning can lead to baked-on grease and discolouration. For a freestanding fryer, the manual recommends boiling out the tank weekly or when the oil is replaced. Drain the oil, close the drain valve, add water and boil-out degreaser according to its package directions, keeping the solution between the tank’s MIN and MAX marks. Do not use chlorine or sulfate/sulfide cleaners. Heat the solution at the manual’s specified low setting without bringing the water to an active boil, brush the tank sides, bottom and heat exchanger tubes, then drain. Rinse with clean water, neutralize alkaline cleaner residue with the manual’s stated vinegar rinse, rinse thoroughly and dry the tank before adding shortening.

For KleenScreen PLUS, the manual says to clean the filter pan, crumb basket and screen components with warm water and dishwashing detergent, rinse fully and dry. The fabric filter envelope must not be washed. The manual recommends replacing filter envelopes at every oil change, described as every 10–14 days depending on oil usage. Remove and clean the VK-series air filter every three months; the service manual says it can be cleaned in a dishwasher or sink with hot, soapy water and must be completely dry before reinstalling. Follow lockout/tagout procedures and disconnect electrical power before servicing components.

Troubleshooting

The VK/TR service manual lists possible causes rather than a model-specific diagnosis. For ignition lockout or a continuous loud beep, it identifies possible issues including gas pressure or the gas valve, air filter, harness connections, electrode, drain-valve switch, ignition module, high limit or thermostat, and a restricted vent hose. For no spark or no blower, listed possibilities include grounding, probe wiring or an open probe, the controller, wiring connections and an open fuse on the ignition/blower control board.

For “puffing” during startup, the manual lists a dirty air filter, incorrect gas pressure, a restricted vent hose, a cracked electrode or an incorrect electrode gap. A burner that lights but will not maintain flame may involve igniter/flame-sense alignment, insufficient gas pressure, transformer polarity or electrode gap. For excessive heat or low heat, the manual identifies temperature offset, probe or control issues, a tripped high limit, interface-board issues or incorrect gas pressure. If the fryer does not heat, check the listed possibilities of the power switch, circuit breaker, transformer and interconnecting wiring. A high-limit shutdown may be associated with shortening below the minimum fill line, a probe or control problem. The service manual reserves these procedures for trained service personnel; contact qualified service support for diagnosis and repair.

Applications

With its 85–90 lb oil capacity, twin baskets, programmable timers and filtration system, the 1VK85CF is suited to commercial kitchens that fry menu items in repeated batches, including breaded foods. Its single full-pot tank provides one cooking zone; select a fryer configuration based on the kitchen’s menu, expected frying volume, available gas type and installation space.