Approximately 30min before the retort is required switch on the steam generator (S1 & S2). Check that the water tap (W1) is open. Ensure that the Main steam valve (V1), the steam line valves (V2 & V3) and the Steam safety Interlock valve (V4) on the retort are fully closed then switch on the steam generator (S1 & S2). The steam generator takes 20 to 30 min to build up steam pressure to 30psi - working pressure

Indications on the steam generator are:

Red light = Power On
Yellow light = Water Level Failure
Pressure Gauge (PG1) = Boiler Steam pressure - 30psi max

Any operating problems inform the support Technician.

2. To Use the Retort

i. Ensure the Retort Drain (D) is closed & Steam Trap valve (S) is open

ii. Load the cans into the retort ensuring even spacing between the cans

iii. Close the retort lid and screw down the fastening lugs in opposite pairs

iv. Open main valve (V1) & line valve (V2)

v. Using a spanner adjust the Steam Pressure Regulator to show the desired working steam presser e.g. 18psi, on the line steam pressure gauge (PG2)

vi. Screw the nut in to INCREASE steam pressure and out to REDUCE it

vii. At this stage steam vent 1 & vent 2 will be open

viii. Open the Safety Interlock steam valve to admit steam into the retort. At this point the temperature recorder should be started. Allow the steam escaping from v the vents to come to a strong flow and with caution, close vent1 & vent2

ix. The retort pressure gauge (PG3) will come to the same pressure as the line pressure. A small steam bleed should be set via the bleed tap

x. If the process requires the retort to be held for a time at a certain pressure or temperature, use the steam pressure regulator valve and valve (V2) in combination
Never use the Safety Interlock Valve for this operation.

3. To Stop the Retort

i. Turn OFF steam valve (V2)

ii. Close the Safety Interlock Valve, this will open Vent 1 to permit steam to escape. Avoid a strong flow of vented steam at this stage to avoid damage to the cans inside the retort

iii. Open Vent 2 again regulating to a slow release of steam. Observe the retort pressure gauge (PG3) reducing

iv. When PG3 shows the pressure to be less than 5 psi open vent 1 and vent 2 more to permit a greater steam flow and wait until PG3 indicates zero pressure, i.e. atmospheric pressure

v. With PG3 showing zero the lid retaining bolts can be carefully unscrewed and the lid raised very carefully (Beware of escaping steam)

vi. At this point, with the lid slightly open, water can be admitted into the retort (W2) to cool the cans. Open the retort drain (D) to allow the water to drain from the retort (Avoid flooding the retort)

vii. Switch off the temperature recorder

4. Close Down Procedure

i. Close main steam valve (V1)

ii. Open Blow-down valves (V5) & (V6) to vent steam from the boiler. Close when completed

iii. Leave the retort drain (D) open