 From its multi-patented boilerless technology to its innovative design that dramatically cuts water and energy usage, Stellar steamers stand out as top performers among older traditional models.
Since its founding in 1999, Stellar has always blazed a new path in steam cooking performance. In 2001, the company was granted its first patent for the controlled condensation of steam. This unique features allows Stellar steamers to heat their entire cooking cavities - not just up to the waterline - producing higher cooking temperatures, longer heat retention and faster recovery times, while cutting energy usage and costs compared to competing models. In 2002, Stellar acquired a patent that gave the same whole-cabinet heating capability to its Sirius line of gas-fired steamers.
Pushing the steamer design envelope still further, Stellar applied for patents in 2004 for its clean reservoir system and exclusive heat exchanger. Bob McLoughlin, Product Line Manager for AGA Cooking Systems, explained
that the clean reservoir system prevents food particulates, such as proteins from shellfish and starches from pasta and rice, from entering the water reservoir and causing frothing. McLoughlin also noted that Stellar's patent-pending heat exchanger shortens recovery time by preheating incoming water. In addition, it conserves water by eliminating the need to cool draining condensate by spraying it with cold water. This can save operators up to 50 gallons of water per hour.
Stellar's high-efficiency design has, in addition, earned ENERGY STAR® certification for most of the company's models. These include six-pan units from the Altair II and Sirius II series, as well as the four-pan Capella
model. Next up for ENERGY STAR certification, according to McLoughlin, are the Altair II and Sirius II four-pan units and the Capella six-pan.
"These models will be tested during 2006 and they will receive their ENERGY STAR status," he affirmed. McLoughlin added that operators gain several advantages when they select ENERGY STAR-certified cooking equipment. "We estimate that there are annual energy savings of $1,000 to $1,500 per cavity when operators switch from traditional boiler-based steamers to ENERGY STAR-certified boilerless models, such as Stellar's," he explained. "Depending on their water rates, end-users will also cut these expenses with Stellar equipment, since our models use up to 90% less water than boiler-based models. And now,"McLoughlin continued, "growing numbers of utility company rebates are becoming available for operators who switch from traditional models to ENERGY STAR-certified boilerless steamers, providing yet another source of financial support to those who choose the most energy-efficient equipment."
With all their unique features and unsurpassed cost-effectiveness, Stellar steamers are easier to clean and maintain than boiler-based units. For example, traditional models must be delimed regularly, which kitchen staff can find difficult to do because lime build-up in boilers can't be seen. As a result, excessive lime build-up can lead to boiler failure and the need for expensive replacements. Stellar's design, however, allows lime build-up to be easily spotted and removed. In most cases, a daily draining and a wipe-down with a water-vinegar mixture will be all the deliming maintenance that is necessary to ensure consistent steaming performance. |
