MKN Deep Fat Fryer 2020325C – Electric, Optima 850

Two 12.5 litre wells on a 600 x 850 mm Optima 850 module define the MKN 2020325C as a twin-tank fryer for a main cooking block, not a snack line. With 20 kW connected load at 400 V, it gives enough heating power for continuous deep-frying on both work zones in a compact footprint.

On a vessel, that 600 x 850 mm body drops straight into an Optima 850 run, simplifying both planning and installation in a crowded galley. Height at 700 mm keeps the fry zone low, which matters when the deck moves and the operator still has to see into, and work safely over, hot oil. The published net weight of 59 kg (68 kg gross) also matters for the structural calculation of the galley foundation and any prefabricated cooking island the yard is building.

The fryer provides two work zones and a working surface of 180 x 400 x 235 mm, so each tank has its own controlled area for baskets and loading. In a marine service pattern that changes product batches quickly, splitting work across separate wells reduces flavour transfer and allows one side to be dropped or filtered while the other remains in use. Capacity at 2 x 12.5 litres means the galley can cover a steady stream of portions rather than only short peaks; the trade-off is that oil management routines and storage for fresh and waste oil have to be thought through at design stage.

Electrical supply is quoted as 400 V with total power draw of 20 kW, which places the appliance firmly in the heavy-load group on the galley distribution board. That is a point for the electrical engineer as much as the catering planner, especially where several modules in the Optima 850 line are specified at similar ratings. Being prepared for connection to an energy optimisation system allows the fryer to be integrated into a load-shedding scheme so that peak demand from multiple appliances can be smoothed.

Build and control

• Stainless steel 1.4301 (AISI 304) throughout
• Self-supporting closed construction
• Fully welded seams
• Ergonomic knob control
• Prepared for connection to an energy optimisation system
• Drain valve
• Thermostatic temperature control

Thermostatic temperature control and ergonomic knob operation keep the interface simple and predictable, which suits an environment with rotating crews and varying skill levels. The integrated drain valve is important at sea where moving hot oil in open containers is a risk; draining directly from the well into a suitable container or fixed waste-oil system reduces handling. The closed, fully welded construction in 1.4301 stainless steel supports the hygiene regime expected in a main galley line and limits ingress of water during routine cleaning.

This fryer is the right choice where two independent wells are needed in an Optima 850 battery and the ship’s electrical plant can comfortably support a 20 kW appliance at 400 V. It is less suitable for a very small pantry or servery that cannot justify the deck space or installed power, where a single-well or lower-capacity unit might be more appropriate.

Ordered under MKN product number 2020325C.