Steamer/Kettle for Food Service Applications

Field test of microwave steamers replacing steamer kettles at large chain quick service restaurant.

The Foodservice Technology Center (FTC) and Design & Engineering Services (DES) performed a series of field tests on El Pollo Loco current steam kettles and new microwave steamers. Field studies were used to determine potential energy savings for deployment within El Pollo Loco restaurants throughout the country. Currently, El Pollo Loco uses two electric steam kettle units per restaurant. The kettles come in two configurations: 20 kilowatts (kW) or 40 kW. The higher volume restaurants -carry one 20 kW and one 40 kW steam kettle unit, while the lower volume restaurants carry two 20 kW steam kettle units. The new microwave steamers, rated at approximately 3 kW, were assessed for potential replacement of the old steam kettles in either or both low-volume and high-volume restaurants.