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General
instructions for crusher/destemmer
(Item #8056)
Crusher-destemmers are used for bulk processing of
grapes during harvest in preparation for pressing or
primary fermentation. The crushers utilize a set of
aluminum rollers that crush and break the skins to
release the juice and allow the breakdown of the
remaining pulp. A screw feeder moves the grapes to
the rollers to begin crushing, dropping the skins
and pulp onto a perforated grid, while a shaft with
paddles causes the stems to be separated from the
grape clusters which are then expelled to the side
of the crusher. The rollers should be adjusted to
properly crush and break the skins while avoiding
bruising or abrading the skins which would release
phenols and excess tannin, thus adding astringency
to the must and the final product. White grapes are
crushed before pressing, while red grapes are
crushed for immediate fermentation to maximize yield
of tannins and flavors, then pressed after the skins
and pulp are broken down by the fermentation
process.
SETUP and USE
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Before
using the crusher-destemmer, thoroughly
familiarize yourself with the operation of the
unit. With the power disconnected, wash and
sanitize the unit including all metal components
that will come into contact with the grapes or
must. Inspect the unit for loose bolts, debris
or items which may hinder the crushing
operation. Lubricate all moving parts with
petroleum jelly or food grade lubricant and
replace all guards and panels before use.
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The unit
is provided with handles for two persons to move
the unit. For safety, it should be only moved by
two persons. Place firmly on stand if provided,
or use a stable base.
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Place a
sanitized vessel (bucket or bin) below the drain
to collect the skins and juice.
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Adjust
the rollers to allow the grape skins to be
broken and gently squeeze the fruit to release
the juice. The adjusting bolts for the rollers
should be adjusted uniformly to maintain
parallel alignment of the rollers, that is, each
turn of the bolt on the right side should be
matched with a turn of the bolt on the left
side.
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Connect
the unit to an adequate power source and start
the machine. Remove all vine leaves before
crushing. Feed the grapes into the hopper at a
uniform rate. Do not over fill the hopper, as
the stems may be forced through the rollers into
the must.
6. Work in a steady and continuous pace to allow
the stems to be expelled from the hopper and to
minimize the risk of oxidization to the final
processed juice. Sulfite as recommended for the
correct volume of must.
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Do not
put hands or other objects into the hopper while
the machine is running or connected to a power
source, as severe injury may result. If clogging
occurs in the stem discharge chute, remove power
and carefully remove debris from the chute.
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The unit
should be washed after the end of each day’s
run. After final processing, thoroughly wash the
unit in clean water.
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Allow to
thoroughly air dry prior to storage.
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Lubricate
all moving parts with petroleum jelly or food
grade lubricant.
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Cover and
store in a dry environment.
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Retain
these instructions for future reference.
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