System Overflow
One of the means in which the system
accomplishes weight and volume reduction,
is by removing from the waste, an amount of
“free-water” that foodservice waste
typically contains. Therefore, the system
is designed to divert this volume of
“system overflow” to waste in the pulper
drain line. Typically, the Somat system
will divert 1 to 4 gallons per minute to
the drain, as “overflow.” The rate of
overflow can be adjusted to match the needs
of your particular waste stream. This
adjustment is made with the stainless steel
“overflow control assembly” that is located
under the drive shroud next the pulper
drive motor. Upon system start-up, this adjustment should be made to
minimize the system’s use of fresh water. Most applications will operate
successfully with a setting of “2”, which is the factory setting If the waste
stream has an abnormally high volume of “mushy” food wastes, (mashed
potatoes, custards, etc.) the overflow rate may have to be increased.
Conversely, if the waste stream contains only disposable plastics and paper,
the overflow rate may reduce to “1.”
Refer to the photo for adjusting the overflow. The number is roughly
the volume of overflow in gallons per minute. If the setting needs to be
changed, simply loosen the four flange bolts and change the setting. If the
desired setting is to “3” or “4”, one of the flange bolts will have to be
removed to allow the tang to pass. When securing the tang, by tightening the
flange bolts, ensure that the tang is touching the side of the bolt, to
assure proper alignment. The setting number must be visible in the center of
the round hole for the assembly to function properly. When tightening the
hardware, be sure to tighten all four bolts evenly to assure equal pressure
around the plates, which prevents leakage.
