An Overview of Vulcan Fryers
Vulcan commercial fryers are a popular choice in the foodservice industry, with a variety of models available for operations ranging from small diners to high-end kitchens. With several series offering gas and electric units with different specifications, learning about the different styles and configurations available for purchase can help determine which is the best Vulcan fryer to maximize your operation.
Common Features of Vulcan Fryers
Although Vulcan offers multiple series of fryers – each with their own specifications – there are some standard features that make these fryers part of a cohesive brand regardless of which series you choose.
Vulcan offers four control systems for most fryer models. The most straightforward option is snap-action, or standing pilot, controls. These systems feature millivolt controls that don't require electricity for use and are exclusively available on gas fryers, though they do require manual ignition and have a relative lack of precision when it comes to temperature regulation. Solid state controls do require 120 volts to function, but they offer accurate temperatures within 2 degrees Fahrenheit of the set level. Vulcan offers three different solid state control systems, providing the choice between an analog, digital, or computer configuration.
Vulcan offers models with built-in oil filtration systems as well as models requiring external filtration equipment. The KleenScreen PLUS® system is standard in Vulcan fryers featuring built-in filtration. This option extends oil life and lowers long-term costs but is more expensive up front. For external filtration, Vulcan offers the portable MF-1 unit, which offers a lower up-front cost and allows you to easily roll the filtration unit up to the fryer when it's needed, then store it away afterwards.
The MF-1 external filtration unit is available for Vulcan fryers without internal filtration. Make sure your kitchen has the space to efficiently utilize the MF-1 unit.
Many Vulcan fryers are ENERGY STAR® certified. Equipment with this certification consumes less energy while still performing efficiently, leading to lower long-term energy costs; both gas and electric fryers are available with this certification. A rebate is typically offered on ENERGY STAR certified appliances. If an instant rebate is not offered in your area, Vulcan advises reaching out to your utility provider for more information.
Choosing a Vulcan Gas Fryer
Some of the most popular Vulcan fryers are gas powered. There are three primary styles of gas-powered fryers, each with their own benefits and applications.
- Gas Tube Fryers are ideal for frying foods that tend to produce higher amounts of sediment, such as fresh – not frozen – battered foods. If you batter your food fresh, a tube fryer may be best.
- Gas Open Pot Fryers are best for frying up large batches of food, typically performing best with low-sediment or frozen foods.
- Gas Flat Bottom Fryers are typically used for dough and wet batter. Unlike tube and open pot fryers, these models have no cold zone, which causes items to initially sink then rise as they cook.
Some of the more high-end Vulcan fryers operating on gas are the PowerFry™ and QuickFry™ series. These fryers offer premium performance and a quality stainless steel construction, as all PowerFry and QuickFry models are freestanding units with locking casters.
PowerFry
These fryers are available in PowerFry3™ and PowerFry5™ models, both of which boast a quick, efficient heat transfer system for lower energy costs and quick oil recovery times. The SoftStart™ ignition system standard in PowerFry models facilitates quick oil heating with half the energy. PowerFry3 models feature ThreePass™ heat exchange tubes to yield 61-percent cooking efficiency and 72-percent thermal efficiency. PowerFry5 models are a step up, featuring the FivePass™ heat transfer system with 66-percent cooking efficiency and 78-percent thermal efficiency. PowerFry models are all ENERGY STAR certified.
QuickFry
The QuickFry models feature a tube-style pot, twin fry baskets, and electronic matchless ignition. The hallmark features of the QuickFry series are precise temperature controls and rapid oil temperature recovery to facilitate quicker, more efficient turnaround. You can choose between units with a 50- or 75-pound capacity.
PowerFry3
Features ThreePass heat exchange
BUY NOWPowerFry5
Features FivePass heat exchange
BUY NOWQuickFry
Holds 50 or 75 pounds of oil
BUY NOWVulcan also offers a selection of more economical options if you're looking for a gas fryer that still performs well at a lower cost. These models often include a few less features, meaning they're considered a step down from the premium options. Even so, they're perfect for operators just starting out in the industry or for areas where equipment might face extra wear and tear.
Vulcan LG Series
These fryers feature snap-action millivolt controls behind the door to offer a control system that doesn't require electricity to function for a straightforward, no-frills user experience. They're available in three different oil capacity sizes: 35 to 40 pounds, 45 to 50 pounds, and 65 to 70 pounds. Models are also available with three, four, or five heat exchanger tubes, providing an option for any kitchen.
BUY NOWVulcan VEG Series
An economical option featuring ENERGY STAR certification, the VEG series offers efficient frying at a lower cost. These models feature electricity-free, snap-action millivolt controls behind the door and are built with four heat exchanger tubes. G90 high-grade galvanized finish on the sides and back of the unit helps prevent corrosion. Choose from oil capacities of 35 to 40 pounds, 45 to 50 pounds, or 65 to 70 pounds.
Vulcan GR Series
If you're looking for a bare-bones, economical fryer, the GR series provides a simple, reliable unit ideal for busy kitchens putting their fryers through heavy use, as the durable construction stands up to high levels of wear and tear. GR series fryers come with three heat exchanger tubes and are available with an oil capacity of 35 to 40 pounds. Like LG and VEG models, the GR series also features behind-the-door millivolt controls.
BUY NOWChoosing a Vulcan Electric Fryer
If your establishment isn't conducive to hooking up a gas fryer or an electric model simply makes more sense in your operation, Vulcan also offers many electric options. Electric fryers tend to emit less heat than gas fryers, which can cut down on utility bills. Vulcan's electric fryers utilize ribbon-style heating elements with high surface areas to facilitate faster recovery and more efficient cooking.
ER Series
If you're looking for a full-size electric fryer, the ER series is a line of freestanding fryers with a 50-pound or 85-pound oil capacity. These are available with solid state knobs, solid state digital displays, or computer controls. The ER series is ENERGY STAR certified.
- Over 85% cooking efficiency
- Full-size capacity
- 6 inch adjustable legs
Vulcan CEF Series
For smaller kitchens – or if you're just looking to maximize your counter space – Vulcan offers the CEF series of electric countertop fryers. These models feature a 40-pound oil capacity and a condiment rail for storing towels or tongs. Like the ER series, all CEF countertop models are ENERGY STAR certified.
- Compact design
- Standard with condiment rail
- Also available with 75-pound capacity
Accessories for Vulcan Fryers
In addition to the differentiating features between models, Vulcan offers optional accessories and add-ons for many of its fryers. These require a separate purchase and can enhance the functionality of your fryer.
- The Frymate™ Dump Station can be purchased as an add-on for any fryer. It provides a place to keep finished food warm until it's ready to be served.
- Extra fry baskets can replace old fry baskets or simply increase efficiency. Many models provide the option to choose between an extra set of twin fry baskets or one large fry basket for bigger food items.
- Caster sets are available for freestanding fryers to make the unit easier to move for cleaning or maintenance. Be mindful of any electrical or gas connections before moving your fryer.
- Connecting kits allow you to connect multiple fryers to create a larger battery unit.
- Splash guards are available for many models to prevent hot oil from splattering walls or other equipment.
- A crumb screen mesh helps remove food debris from the oil in your fryer to prevent burning and enhance efficiency.
- Stainless steel tank covers are available for some models and can double as a work surface top.
- Other miscellaneous accessories are available for certain models, such as a 304 stainless steel fish plate and quick disconnect hoses.
Other Things to Consider
Vulcan offers gas and electric fryers in a range of sizes to fit all varieties of operations across the industry, so before making a purchase, you should consider the size and configuration of your kitchen. The space you have and the cuisine you serve both have a large impact on which Vulcan fryer is best.
Check that your kitchen allows for adequate gas hookups before purchase if you're considering a Vulcan gas fryer.
The availability and cost of utilities in your area can influence your decision between gas or electric fryers. Be sure to double check any local codes and regulations before choosing your Vulcan fryer. While Vulcan's gas fryers use safe and reliable substances such as natural gas and liquid propane, the maintenance and safety requirements of a gas hookup in some operations may not be feasible.
With gas and electric options ranging from compact countertop units to connecting kits for creating large fry stations, Vulcan combines versatility with reliability, and even operators completely new to the industry can find models that can work in their kitchens.
