The Dieta mixer kettles can have multiple water connections depending on selected options. The water connections are used for different functions:
- To fill potable water to the kettle
- To add water to the steam generator
- To chill the kettle, depending on the kettle type
- For optional wash hose
The available water connections
Cold water connection is a standard in Dieta kettles, if no other connection is selected cold water is used for all of the above functions. If an optional connection is selected, cold water is no longer used for the functions of this connection.
Warm water connection (option) is connected only to the wash hose for rinsing the kettle only after cleaning. Because of food safety regulations normal warm water may not be used for food.
Hot water connection (option) is connected to the kettle’s water tap and used to fill hot potable water (at least +65°C) for the food.
A softened water connection (option) is connected to the steam generator and used to lower the consumption of treated water in extreme water conditions.
Chill-in and Chill-out connections are used for ice water (0,1…1 °C) in circulated chilling options.
Requirements for water connections
There are requirements for water conditions in different use/connections. These exist to ensure the proper functionality of the kettle. When water conditions do not fulfill the requirements, these should be improved e.g. with necessary filters or water treatment devices installed on-site.
The water conditions for all water lines
Water pressure and flow - If the pressure is lower than the minimum water pressure allowed, a pressure rise pump should be fitted for the unit's proper function.
Typically minimum water flow rate is 10 l/min. However, if main water chilling is used, the flow rate should be at least 25 l/min for optimal chilling performance. In circulated ice water chilling, if the water connection pressure or water flow is not fulfilling requirements, the chilling performance can be highly reduced and then proper performance prevented.
Particle filtering - If the water contains a lot of organics or metals, it must be filtered to 15 μm. The filtering protects the solenoid valves and level switches of the kettle from mechanical impurities in the waterline. There is an option to order this equipment with the kettle. It comes as an external filter, which can be mounted to the back of the kettle leg or to the wall behind the kettle. The customer should have access to the position as the filter cartridge is replaced every three months.
Temperature - Temperature limitations are typically based on the design of the kettle, as some water lines do not allow as high temperatures as other lines. Too high temperatures can cause malfunctions or even damage parts.
Water connections for steam generator
The water for the steam generator must be clean, if not then a softened water connection should be utilized and an additional water treatment device should be installed. Softened water connections lower the consumption of treated water, as it is used only for generating steam and consumption is only a few liters a day.
Water hardness - If hardness is more than 5 °dH a water softener is needed. H+ Ion Exchanger is one feasible option. When it is needed to remember that systems creating high salt content should not be used.
Chlorine level - If chlorine level is more than 0,25 mg/l an active carbon filter is needed to reduce it.
Chloride concentration - If chloride concentration exceeds 100mg/l a reverse osmosis system (or alternative) should be used.
Conductivity - If or when water is treated, it should be ensured that conductivity between 30…1000 μS/cm is achieved otherwise water is too aggressive and it can cause corrosion.
A simple checklist to make water connections right:
- Water quality in all water connections should fulfill the water quality requirements
- Water lines must be thoroughly rinsed from all loose particles before connections
- Water connections should be fitted with shut off valve
- Connect water lines with flexible hoses
You might also be interested in: Types of emptying pipes and valves in mixer kettles
Choosing the Right Mixer Kettle Quick Guide helps you to determine your needs for a mixer kettle. If you are Partner, you can find the guide on Dietatec Extranet. Download the handy guide >
