C24EA3-LWE

Overview

The Vulcan Hart C24EA3-LWE is a three-pan electric countertop atmospheric convection steamer. The C24EA series manual identifies the C24EA3 as a three-pan model, with the pan designation based on a 2.5-inch pan depth. Atmospheric convection steam cooking can be used for fresh foods and for defrosting and cooking frozen foods. The manual notes that the operator can open and close the cooking compartment during a cycle; opening the door stops the generator element, which starts again when the door is closed.

The product listing specifies 208V, three-phase power. The installation manual’s model list also identifies three-pan LWE/Sonic configurations at 208/240V, three-phase and 480V, three-phase, each listed at 8.5 kW. Because electrical configuration depends on the unit’s model and data plate, confirm the exact requirements for the steamer being installed.

Key Features

• Three-pan cooking compartment: The C24EA3 model designation indicates a three-pan steamer; the series manual bases its pan designation on 2.5-inch pan depth.
• Atmospheric convection steam: The manual describes cooking fresh foods and steaming frozen foods for defrosting and cooking.
• Timed cycles: The C24EA series uses a timer for cook cycles from 0 to 60 minutes.
• Door-responsive heating: The generator element shuts off when the door is opened and restarts after the door is closed.
• Three-phase LWE configuration: The installation manual states that LWE units are available only for three-phase operation.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Vulcan Hart.
• Model: C24EA3-LWE.
• Equipment type: Electric countertop convection steamer; the C24EA series is described as atmospheric steamers.
• Pan configuration: Three pan, based on 2.5-inch pan depth.
• Electrical supply in the product listing: 208V, three phase.
• LWE electrical information in the series manual: LWE units are three phase only. The manual lists three-pan LWE/Sonic configurations at 208/240V, three phase, and 480V, three phase.
• Power rating: The manual lists 8.5 kW for the three-pan LWE/Sonic configuration.
• Frequency: The manual states that the C24EA series operates at 50 or 60 Hz.
• Water supply pressure: 20–60 psig.
• Water quality: The service manual specifies total dissolved solids below 60 ppm.
• Timer range: 0 to 60 minutes for C24EA series timed cook cycles.

Installation & Requirements

Electrical supply

Before installation, check that the electrical supply agrees with the steamer’s data plate. The product listing identifies this C24EA3-LWE as 208V, three phase. The series installation manual states that LWE units are available only for three-phase operation. It also lists LWE/Sonic three-pan configurations at 208/240V, three phase, and 480V, three phase, at 8.5 kW. The manual says 208/240V units are shipped prewired for 208/60/3; 240V operation requires a heating-element connection change. It states that 480V units are shipped configured for 480/60/3. Confirm the actual voltage and model information on the unit’s data plate; do not proceed if the supply and equipment requirements do not agree.

Water supply

The C24EA service manual gives a supply pressure range of 20–60 psig and calls for an in-line strainer in the supply line. It specifies total dissolved solids below 60 ppm. The stacking-kit installation instructions also call for verifying water pressure within the 20–60 PSI range. The manual recommends a water treatment system for scale control.

The available model-specific material does not provide clearance dimensions or a ventilation connection requirement for this unit, so no clearance or ventilation figures are stated here.

Operation

Use the timer to set a C24EA series timed cook cycle from 0 to 60 minutes. When the timer reaches zero, the buzzer sounds and steam stops entering the cooking compartment; turn the timer to OFF to silence the buzzer. Opening the door interrupts cooking by shutting off the generator element. Closing the door allows the element to restart. The manual cautions operators to stay clear when opening the door because the compartment contains live steam and hot water.

For shutdown, the installation and operation manual instructs the operator to set the main power switch to OFF, clean the compartment and door gasket, and leave the compartment door open. Power must remain supplied for 15 minutes after the main switch is turned off so the drain cycle can complete. For an extended shutdown, the manual also directs the operator to turn off the water and main power supply and then disconnect power.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Daily cleaning

Before cleaning, disconnect electrical power and follow lockout/tagout procedures. Inspect the cooking-compartment drain daily for blockage and remove particles or debris from the perforated strainer daily, or more often if needed. After cooking greasy foods or seafood, the manual directs operators to close the doors and operate each compartment for 25 to 30 minutes to flush residual grease and oils down the compartment drain. Then pour 1/2 gallon (1.9 liters) of warm water and non-chloride detergent solution down the drain and rinse with 1/2 gallon (1.9 liters) of hot water.

Wash the compartment with warm water and non-chloride detergent, then rinse with warm water. Clean exposed surfaces, including the sides, front, door and top, daily with a damp cloth and polish with a clean cloth. For discoloration, use a nonabrasive cleaner. Clean the door-gasket sealing surface with a cloth moistened with mild detergent and warm water; rinse with a separate cloth moistened with warm water and dry. Do not use solvents or sharp instruments on the gasket. Replace a gasket with a nick or cut, since damage to the sealing surface can cause steam leakage.

Generator draining and scale

The manual states that the generator must be drained every day to flush accumulated minerals and help prevent internal scale buildup that can interfere with operation. It warns that failure to drain the generator daily will void the steamer warranty. After operation, turn the unit off using the power switch on the cooking compartment; the manual says the generator drains for approximately 15 minutes. Drained water that looks murky or milky at first indicates minerals in suspension. The water is hot and under pressure, so use care when cleaning or servicing the generator.

The manual recommends a water treatment system for scale-free operation and says to delime the steamer when symptoms of scale occur. Follow the deliming material manufacturer’s instructions. The manual warns that deliming solution can harm skin and eyes and directs users to wear gloves and safety goggles when handling it. The detailed automatic-drain deliming procedure in the manual is identified for Professional units, so it is not presented here as an LWE-specific procedure.

Troubleshooting

• Steamer does not produce steam: The manual’s troubleshooting information identifies loss of main power, the power switch being OFF, and no water supply as possible causes. Check the power source, set the switch to ON, and check the water supply.
• Steamer does not heat or steam properly: Excessive scale buildup is identified as a possible cause. The manual directs operators to delime the steamer when scale symptoms occur, following the deliming product instructions.
• Steam leaks at the door: A nicked or cut door gasket can cause steam leakage. The manual says to replace a damaged gasket and keep its sealing surface clean.

Applications

The C24EA series manual describes atmospheric steaming for fresh foods and for defrosting and cooking frozen foods. Its cooking guidance covers eggs, meats, seafood, vegetables, fruit, rice, pasta, casseroles and canned vegetables. Examples include steaming eggs, chicken, fish, vegetables and frozen foods. The manual’s cooking guidance includes both perforated-pan and solid-pan foods; use the pan type appropriate to the food and preparation method.