TM can provide exceptional quality honey with low CFUs ...€¦ · Page | 1 Congratulations on your...

Page | 1

Congratulations on your purchase of a new hummaTM

Centrifugal Honey Separator.

The patented technology of the hummaTM

Separator makes it a world leader in the separation of honey

and wax. Correctly configured, the hummaTM

can provide exceptional quality honey with low CFUs (Colony-

Forming Units - a measure of the viable bacteria remaining in the honey), minimal start-up times and

cleanout, and dry wax output.

This manual contains important safety information on the correct Installation, Operation and Maintenance

of your hummaTM

Separator. You must read this manual before installation or operating this machine. If

you do not install and use your machine correctly, you can damage the machine and possibly injure the

operator. Failure to comply with this will void the warranty.

Please take a few minutes to read through this manual and ensure all personnel operating the hummaTM

are familiar with the safety and operating procedures.

Revision B1

_______________________________________________________________________________________

MANUFACTURER CONTACT DETAILS

Scott Service International ltd

32A Tanya Street, Bromley 8062, Christchurch, New Zealand.

Ph: +64 3 373 6019 | Email: [email protected] | www.scott.co.nz

Scott Service International ltd is a division of Scott Technology ltd.

Page | 2 Separation Made Easy

CONTENTS

1. Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 3

2. Machine Specifications ........................................................................................................................... 3

Physical Parameters........................................................................................................................................ 3

Processing Parameters ................................................................................................................................... 3

3. Safety ...................................................................................................................................................... 4

Personal Safety ............................................................................................................................................... 4

Machine Safety ............................................................................................................................................... 6

4. Machine Details, Parts Identication ........................................................................................................ 8

5. Installation Instructions ........................................................................................................................ 12

6. Operation .............................................................................................................................................. 13

Starting the humma™ ................................................................................................................................... 13

Stopping the humma™ ................................................................................................................................. 14

7. Process Recommendations ................................................................................................................... 16

Process Operation and Explanation ............................................................................................................. 16

Slurry Flowrate ............................................................................................................................................. 16

Temperature ................................................................................................................................................. 16

Wax Core Properties ..................................................................................................................................... 17

Vibration ....................................................................................................................................................... 18

8. Machine Setup Procedure .................................................................................................................... 20

Extraction Shed Layout ................................................................................................................................. 20

Honey Type Setup ......................................................................................................................................... 21

Shroud setup ................................................................................................................................................. 21

9. Machine Adjustments ........................................................................................................................... 22

10. Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................... 24

11. Machine Settings Record Sheet ............................................................................................................ 29

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1. INTRODUCTION

• This instruction manual is for the humma™ CH50.B honey and wax separator. All designs, drawings

and other information contained in this document are the property of Scott Separation Technology

Ltd and cannot be copied without the written approval of Scott Separation Technology Ltd.

• humma™ is a trademark and all rights are reserved.

• It is essential to read the operating instructions manual prior to using the machine.

• Operators should always operate the machine with care.

• This technical document is intended as a reference and instruction manual. Instructions are

provided to ensure the operator understands the use of the machine and be aware of safety when

operating or handling the machine. These operating instructions do not include repair instructions.

If repairs are necessary, please contact Scott Service International.

2. MACHINE SPECIFICATIONS

PHYSICAL PARAMETERS

Size & Weight 1100mm x 500mm x 1150 high, approx 190kg (empty)

Input 2" (50mm) RJT fitting at rear of machine. 975mm floor to fitting centre

Output- Honey 3” (76mm) tube, for clamp of flexible hose to honey buffer tank. Left-

or Right-handed. 580mm floor to tube centre

Output- Wax Centre outfeed to floor tank mounted at end of Centrifuge.

Spin Speed 750 – 1100rpm (manual variable adjustment, ~25Hz – 38Hz)

Electrical requirements Standard 240V Single phase, 10A supply

Power lead 1m [Power socket to control box]

Motor cable 2m [Control box to humma™]

Moisture Injection Optional Extra

PROCESSING PARAMETERS

Throughput 500kg - 1000kg per hour, dependent on honey type and setup

Honey Slurry Supply Temp 28°C - 34°C optimum, 30°C-36°C max processing range

Note: A Beetech heat exchanger is recommended for precise control of the honey slurry for continuous

and reliable honey/wax separation. The Slurry temperature should be measured close to the inlet into the

hummaTM

. See section 7 for more details on process recommendations for optimum performance.


3. SAFETY

Safety of Operators and Maintenance Personnel is of prime importance. The following paragraphs are

presented as a helpful guide to make you think and work safely.

This section of the Manual is intended to illustrate only basic safety procedures. Additional precaution may

be necessary for the safe operation of your equipment.

This information is not intended to replace safety codes, insurance requirements, federal, state and local

laws, rules or regulations.

PERSONAL SAFETY

It is the responsibility of the Operator to know what specific requirements, precautions and work area

hazards exist, and to discuss them with his or her Supervisor. A common understanding should be reached

by all personnel to ensure safe performance in operating the equipment.

`The Operator is the key to safe performance. Good safety practices not only protect the people around

you, they are your own best protection.

STOP ACCIDENTS BEFORE THEY STOP YOU!

Read and understand this Manual, learn your processing facilities safety procedure, know

your machine and surroundings.

DO YOU KNOW YOUR EMPLOYER'S SAFETY PROGRAM?

Most accidents are caused by disregard of simple rules - learn their procedures - observe their instructions.

ARE YOU DRESSED PROPERLY FOR THE JOB?

Use and wear protective devices and clothing. Check your requirements with your Supervisor. Make sure

your clothing and personal effects are not hazardous or restrictive - loose clothes are dangerous.

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DO YOU KNOW YOUR WORKING AREA?

Orientate yourself in your local work area. Know the layout of machines, electrical switches,

fire extinguishers, etc. before you start work. Keep your area clean and tidy.

DO YOU UNDERSTAND YOUR MACHINERY?

READ THE MANUAL; learn the equipment's operation, capacity,

and limitations. Understand and ensure correct maintenance

procedures. Know the controls, indicators, safety devices and

cut off switches.

DO YOU KNOW YOUR EMERGENCY PROCEDURES?

LEARN the procedures for accidents - fire - emergencies. Know the position and use of

extinguishers and first aid kits. Know where and how to get prompt assistance.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES & MEDICATION

� DO NOT use alcoholic beverages before coming to work or

while on the job.

� BEWARE of medicines, tranquilizers or other drugs which

make you sleepy or less alert.


MACHINE SAFETY

BEFORE STARTING CHECK

Equipment not properly prepared for operation is unsafe equipment. Run a careful

check at the beginning of your shift. If you find something that needs attention,

THINK TWICE before deciding to "let it go this time". Even minor mechanical defects

can lead to personal injury and accidents.

� DO NOT allow unauthorized personnel to operate the equipment.

� MAKE SURE all guards and other protective devices are in place, secured

and not damaged.

� NEVER TAMPER with safety devices.

� CHECK the equipment thoroughly for visual defects.

� INSPECT your machine according to the Operator's manual and your Supervisor's instructions.

REPORT A DEFECTIVE MACHINE

Inspect your machine daily! Check for loose, worn or damaged parts. Report or correct any unsafe

conditions immediately. Do not operate the machine until they have been corrected. Even a minor defect

can become serious. Report any machine defects to your Supervisor immediately.

START UP SAFETY

� CHECK the equipment for warning tags.

� FOLLOW recommended starting procedures.

� AFTER the machine has started, check everything to be sure it is operating properly.

� SHUT DOWN immediately if anything is not operating correctly.

� LISTEN for and report any unusual noises.

� DO NOT take a chance with a defective machine. REPORT IT TO YOUR SUPERVISOR.

STOPPING SAFETY

Be sure the machine is stopped, isolated and locked out before cleaning, servicing, checking belt tension,

removing housing covers or making repairs.

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BEFORE MAINTENANCE

� Always lockout electrical controls before performing any type of

maintenance work or cleaning on the equipment.

� When servicing the electrical power unit, lockout the electrical

service to the power unit, as depressing the "stop" button will

only stop the motor.

� CAUTION! To avoid shock from DC electric discharge ALWAYS isolate the machine at the isolator

switch BEFORE removing the three pin plug from the wall socket.

� Provide each maintenance person with their own personal padlock and ONE key.

MAINTENANCE

� Only perform the work you are authorized to do, DO NOT attempt repairs you

do not understand.

� Use the proper tools; keep them clean and in good repair.

� Keep your machine clean.

� Check for worn, defective or missing parts during regular maintenance.

� Always replace with Genuine humma™ parts.

REMEMBER – SAFETY IS UP TO YOU!

� Support efforts to make your work-place safe and healthy. Do your part, observe safety regulations

and established work practices.

� Act responsibly and with concern for the safety of others, as well as your own.

� Check all tools and protective equipment frequently, to make sure they are in safe working order.

� Educate yourself and others in the hazards associated with your job and safe ways to perform

familiar tasks.

� Ask others how to perform tasks with which you are unfamiliar. Playing it "by ear" can lead to costly

accidents.

� Think over accident and injury possibilities before starting on any project. Take appropriate

precautions to protect yourself and others.

� Warn others of the possibility of accidents and injuries if you see them working unsafely or creating

potential hazards.

� Stay alert for changes in work conditions and the work process.

� Report unsafe acts and conditions immediately to your Supervisor. Don't assume that someone else

will do it.


4. MACHINE DETAILS, PARTS IDENTICATION

Front handle

Bowl

Cover

Shroud top

assembly

Rapid

Stop

Auger adjuster

handle

Front clamp

release handle Bowl lift

handle

Electrical

Isolator

MACHINE OVERVIEW

Wax

Outlet

Honey Outlet

(LH or RH option)

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Outlet Cone Assembly

Auger

Assembly

Bowl

Inlet Deflector

Drive belt RJT Inlet fitting

Seal drain

Drive pulley

Inlet seal

BOWL DETAIL

(Cover and Front

Clamp Hidden)

Drive cover

INLET DETAIL


Auger Tip

AUGER ASSEMBLY

Auger Rear Adjust

Magnetic Coupling

OUTLET CONE

Dams

Wax Outlet Cone Outlet Spider

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SHROUD ASSEMBLY

Top Shroud latch

(2 places) Padlock

in place during

operation

Mesh covers

(2 places)

Mesh (2 places)

Mesh cover

toggles (2 per side)

Top Shroud

Bottom Tank

Shark Gill

Insert

Bowl cover

screw (2 places)


5. INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

UNPACKING

Your humma™ is delivered to you in a robust packing crate and secured in place with timber dunnage to

prevent damage during transportation. Remove the box lid. Rotate the box so the humma™ is standing

upright, with two lengths of timber underneath the box. Unbolt the humma™ feet from the box. Slide the

humma™ out of the box, using a forklift or similar under the frame beams for support – take care not to

load the cover or front of the humma™. Remove the protective film. Done!

HUMMA™ POSITIONING

Before positioning the humma™ please ensure that there is reasonable access to the rear coupling at the

infeed for disassembly of the infeed seal and the humma™ should be positioned no closer than 30cm to a

wall. The front of the humma™ needs regular access for cleaning, maintenance and removal of wax.

The outlet hose must allow unrestricted honey flow to clear the machine under gravity; it cannot run

horizontally from the machine.

BOLTING YOUR HUMMA™ TO THE FLOOR

It is of vital importance that the humma™ Centrifuge is securely anchored to the floor. Note the following

before securing the humma™ to the floor.

The floor needs to be good quality concrete of at least 100mm thickness. The humma™ will not perform

satisfactorily if fixed to a wooden floor.

The recommended anchor is a 12mm Chemset anchor. ALWAYS fit 8 anchors. An alternative anchor is the

Ramset “Spatec Plus M12 Safety Anchors. Follow Chemset / Ramset installation instructions for drilling

details. Details can be found at www.ramset.co.nz.

Caution: Do not mount the machine on top of rubber blocks. It must be attached rigidly to the floor to

deliver best performance and safety.

Once the positioning of the humma™ has been determined, it is possible that the feet may rock on the

floor depending on the flatness of the floor surface. A metal packer(s) must be placed under one of the

feet, if there is more than 1.5mm of clearance between the floor and the foot.

After bolting the machine down to the anchor manufacturer’s recommended torque settings, it is

important to seal around the feet and floor with RTV silicon to avoid anchor corrosion.

The Control Box should be fixed to a wall nearby the humma™ so that it can be easily accessed – note the

Rapid Stop and Electrical Isolator switches are mounted to the control box; Ensure these are not hidden or

obstructed.

Install a thermometer in the honey slurry supply line, close to the humma™ inlet, to check the slurry

temperature during operation. Make sure the thermometer is clearly visible whilst operating the humma™.

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6. OPERATION

STARTING THE HUMMA™

CAUTION! If the humma™ becomes unstable (vibrating more than ~3mm) at any time, you must stop it

immediately by pressing the Rapid-Stop button on the control panel. Wax and honey will pour out of the

humma™, so make sure you have a bin under the wax outlet.

START PRE-CHECKS

1. The humma™ is in good condition, all covers are fitted and the top shroud assembly is locked in

place

2. The wax bin is in position under the wax outlet

3. The auger adjuster handle is fully rotated ANTI-CLOCKWISE (raising the auger) – we recommend

making a note of the operating position of the auger so it can be reset once the startup sequence

has been completed

4. The bowl rotates freely (turn at least one full rotation) by hand

5. The humma™ is capable of starting up on automatic functions with a wax core from the previous

days production

• If you are operating your honey plant in relatively cold conditions, using a relatively low

heating source overnight such as an electric blanket over the cover will keep the wax

core malleable and aid startup in the morning

• Ensure the temperature of the wax core NEVER exceeds 38°C

• Wax cores should be removed and your humma™ cleaned down on a weekly basis

• If wax is seen in the honey outlet, the bowl, outlet cone and shrouds must be cleaned

6. Ensure relatively clean honey is at operating temperature prior to starting your humma™

o The temperature of the inlet honey and wax slurry must always be between 30°C - 36°C.

This should be controlled automatically with an inline heat exchanger and monitored by a

thermometer or temperature sensor close to the humma™ inlet. Optimum operating

temperature is 32°C - 34°C

o It is preferable that the auger/mixer on the slurry tank remains off until the humma™ has

completed the startup sequence (solid green light) and is at processing speed. The startup

sequence takes approximately 10 minutes

7. For the humma™ to provide clean honey it will require a constant flow of honey, and the ability to

adjust the flow rate of honey wax slurry to the humma™. The inlet pumps must be equipped with a

variable speed control (VFD). On/off pumps tend to provide poor results, causing unnecessary

issues with honey/ wax separation – the humma™ works best with a steady, consistent flow of

slurry

SMART START – AUTOMATIC START

1. Follow the startup pre-checks above

2. The “FREQ. SET” keypad dial on your humma™ control box would have been pre-set to between 32-

34 Hz from the previous days production prior to your automatic “smart” shutdown. This dial


should not normally need to be adjusted; however first check this dial is between the 5th and 6th

dots on the panel prior to startup

3. Start your slurry pump on low flow, approx. 100kg of honey per hour

4. Once honey is entering the humma™, push the green button on your humma™ control panel

5. The green light will flash during the automatic startup sequence

6. Once the drum is rotating freely without any odd noises, you are able to “walk away” and work on

other areas in your processing plant

7. After the green light stops flashing, turn on your slurry tank mixer/auger

8. Adjust your slurry pump flow rates to the desired settings

9. Reset the auger adjuster handle to operating position

10. Fine-tune your humma™ bowl speed at the “FREQ. SET” keypad dial as required

POSSIBLE FAULT CONDITIONS

Should the drum contain a heavy, cold or extremely out of balanced load, the drive panel may advise you

of an overload fault during the first 30s start up. The drive stops your humma™ to avoid damage to your

equipment.

o To clear this fault you should activate the “rapid stop” mushroom and press the reset button

on the control panel. Reset the “rapid stop” mushroom by twisting and attempt another

startup by simply pushing the green button again.

o If the humma™ faults more than two or three times on startup you will need to investigate

the following:

• Isolate and lockout the control box to avoid operator harm. The main isolator switch

must be locked out and on “O” prior to removing any machine covers

• Rotate the bowl around by hand two and a half revolutions. This should free up the

overload conditions to allow an automated smart start

• If the humma™ still fails to start, refer to the troubleshooting section

STOPPING THE HUMMA™

1. Stop the mixer/auger on your slurry tank and rotate the auger adjuster handle fully CLOCKWISE

(lowering the auger – make sure to take a note of its operating position before adjusting) at least 15

minutes prior to stopping the humma™ to provide a clean honey flow through your system to aid

the next day’s startup.

2. Slow the inlet slurry pump to a low flow of honey, approx. 50-100kg per hour; wait at least 5 to 10

minutes before taking the next step.

3. Turn off your slurry pump and push the red automatic stop button on the main face of the

humma™ control panel. The red light will start flashing indicating the start of the shutdown cycle.

When no lights are illuminated the humma™ will have automatically shut down. This shutdown

sequence takes approximately 10 minutes.

DAILY CLEANING (AT END OF PRODUCTION)

1. Isolate the power to the machine. CAUTION! The top shroud assembly is a safety guard and must

not be removed during operation, and the machine must not run without the shroud in place

Page | 15

2. Unlock and unlatch the top shroud assembly latches (one on each side) and lift off the machine

3. Release the front handle by pulling it back to the horizontal position

4. Pull the front clamp release handle to break the seal between the bearing and cone assembly

5. Pull the Outlet cone forward (approx. 1cm) to drain excess honey from the bowl

6. Remove the Mesh covers from the top shroud by rotating the toggles through 90° and clean all

parts in warm water

WEEKLY CLEANING

1. Swing the front clamp all the way down until it rests on the chains

2. IMPORTANT: Place a cover or clean rag over the urethane ring to avoid honey and contamination

getting into this area

3. Rotate the bowl lift handle to raise the bowl for the outlet cone assembly removal

4. Pull the outlet cone assembly out of the machine, tilting it up to clear the front clamp. As the cone

assembly is removed the auger will simply slide down the cone until it is left hanging from the

magnetic coupling at the back of the bowl, or sitting in the wax core

5. Remove the auger by pulling forwards to break the hold of the magnetic coupling

CAUTION: care must be taken to keep the auger tip clean, as honey and contamination on the tip

can be transferred into the clamp assembly, causing increased wear and problems with

adjustments

6. Remove the wax core from the machine

7. Clean the shroud assembly, auger assembly and outlet cone assembly, flush warm water through

the outlet dams

8. Remove the shark gill insert from the bottom tank. Clean the bottom tank and shark gills

9. Flush warm water through the inlet deflector (into the bowl)

IMPORTANT: If granulated honey has been processed, thorough cleaning of the inlet deflector, outlet cone

and outlet dams may be required more frequently to prevent blockages during operation

BOWL COVER REMOVAL:

CAUTION! To remove the bowl cover, first isolate the power and ensure the bowl has stopped rotating

(look underneath). Remove the two front mount screws and lift the cover off the machine.

SHROUD REASSEMBLY:

Reverse the weekly cleaning process to set the machine back ready for production:

1. Refit the shark gill insert

2. Refit the Auger assembly. The auger magnetic coupling must be accurately located on the magnetic

coupling at the back of the bowl. CAUTION: Every time the front clamp is released the auger

magnetic coupling must be checked! It is possible for the front clamp to pull the auger assembly

forward disengaging the magnetic coupling without the knowledge of the operator

3. Slide the Outlet Cone assembly back into the bowl, lift the auger tip to allow it to pass through the

centre hole in the outlet cone

4. Lower the bowl by rotating the bowl lift handle


5. Swing the front clamp up to horizontal position. Fully rotate front clamp handle to vertical. As the

front clamp is raised into position the auger tip will start to engage. The auger may need a little

‘jiggle’ and twist to assist in lining it up with the front clamp. If the clamp is closed and the auger is

not engaged correctly the auger adjuster handle will be pushed out, simply reach in and rotate the

auger handle each way until the adjuster handle snaps forward into position

6. Lower the top shroud assembly into place and reattach the latches. Replace the mesh covers and

lock in place with the toggles

7. PROCESS RECOMMENDATIONS

PROCESS OPERATION AND EXPLANATION

The wax and honey slurry enters the humma™ through a 2” (50mm) RJT fitting on the back on the

machine. As the slurry contacts the deflector in the back of the bowl it is redirected and accelerated to the

wall of the bowl. The centrifugal force within the humma™ settles the honey to the outside wall of the

bowl, floating the wax and other light-weight materials (such as bee bodies, wood fragments etc) towards

the center of the bowl. As the contents travel along the bowl the separation process continues, forming a

wax core, with dry wax in the centre gradually increasing in honey content to the outside of the core

(which is submerged in honey). A layer of clean honey will flow along the inside wall of the bowl where it

flows under the cone assembly to the front of the bowl. Clean honey past the cone gradually increases in

volume and fine material continues to separate out until the honey flows over the dams and out of the

machine via the shroud assembly and 3” (76mm) outlet tube. The auger blades in the center of the bowl

grade the driest wax out the front of the machine from the center of the wax core.

SLURRY FLOWRATE

Consistent slurry flow and mixture is recommended.

• The inlet slurry tank should contain a minimum of 300kg of honey slurry (one drum size)

• All honey from the extractors should be supplied directly into the cappings/slurry tank

• The cappings/slurry tank should mix all wax cappings and extracted honey. It is important to supply

honey at a relatively consistent ratio of wax to honey; a mixer in the slurry tank is recommended

• Large lumps of wax entering the humma™ must be avoided as they create undesirable results in the

separation process, can cause oversized wax cores and block the inlet

• humma™ infeed slurry blockages and interruptions to slurry flow may create undesirable results in

the separation process – a steady, consistent flow provides better results

• Intermittent slurry flow can cause inconsistent slurry temperature in the heat exchanger and a very

hot slug of slurry after the blockage is cleared. Hot wax (e.g. >38°C) can start to over-soften the

wax, resulting in undesirable processing issues

• Whenever the humma™ is rotating it MUST have a flow of slurry at the inlet, to prevent damage to

the seals

TEMPERATURE

Small changes to the slurry temperature result in a large change to viscosity, which affects separation

speeds, wax core size and structure etc. Being able to check the slurry temperature is very important.

Page | 17

• Hot Room and boxes (supers) prior to processing;

o 36-38°C with under-floor heating and high air movement is recommended

o All boxes should ideally be at a consistent temperature of 25°C - 35°C prior to starting the

days’ production. This can help improve the entire process and include everything from;

pricking, de-capping, extracting and separating the wax and honey

o Heating times can vary from 12 to 48 hours depending on the time year, storage time off

the hive and temperature of the boxes entering the hot room

• Avoid cold cappings slurry <32°C inlet temperature

o The colder the slurry the less efficiently honey separates from the wax

o The auger will work less effectively as the wax gets colder/harder and cause oversized wax

cores

• Avoid hot cappings slurry >38°C inlet temperature

o Warmer slurry requires less separation time, however increasing the temperature too much

over-softens the wax, especially lighter coloured waxes, causing poor grading of the wax by

the auger, and can trap honey within the wax core

• Avoid rapid changes in slurry temperature

• Avoid cold startups in the morning

o It is recommended that the wax core is greater than 25°C at startup

WAX CORE PROPERTIES

Formation of a friable (easily crumbled) core is essential to successful operation. It will help keep the honey

clean and the wax readily removable. If the core is too hot or too hard it won’t cut on the auger teeth, and

this leads to problems

• Ideally the wax core should be >70mm & <90mm, measured at the outlet

• Longer residence time of product in the bowl = better separation; lower slurry feed rates and

higher bowl speeds. As the speeds increase past optimum, the core will lose too much honey and

become hard

• Faster rotational bowl speed increases the rate of separation, however this can also over-harden

the wax core

• Core must be consistent, achieved by ensuring a consistent flow of slurry to the humma™, at a

consistent temperature and at a consistent ratio of wax to honey. An effective mixer should be

fitted at the slurry supply tank. Should supply be interrupted (i.e. lunchtime), slow down bowl

speed to 18-20Hz. This will help avoid core over hardening. A slow flow of honey must be

maintained and the mixer in the slurry tank turned off.

• The warmer the product, the more quickly wax will separate from the honey, however wax can also

become too soft over 34°C, especially light coloured wax and then it won’t grade out on the auger

properly

• A thicker core of wax = drier wax due to a longer bowl residence time, however output wax should

still have a little bit of honey remaining to avoid risk of the core over-hardening.

• An over thick core can lead to “dirtier” honey because honey has less residence time for impurities

to separate.


• The core must remain friable because wax particles are continually migrating towards the bowl

centre where they are picked up by the auger and “graded” out. Should the core become too dense

or packed hard (through too high rotational speed) wax particles can no longer move towards the

centre, leading to an oversized wax core

• Should the core become too warm, wax particles become too soft and collapse, preventing honey

from draining effectively from the core towards the outside of the bowl. New wax should be

processed at a lower temperature to avoid this issue.

• An inconsistent flow, honey/wax ratio or infeed temperature can lead to a condition of a hardened

band of wax within the core. A hardened band will cause a loss of separation efficiency, as the

softer wax bypasses the hardened band

• It is prudent to run the rotational speed only as fast as required to achieve good results –Over

speeding especially when combined with lower flows, can over-harden the core

o Clean out the wax core on a weekly basis, more often if you experience problems on startup

o If processing granulated honey you will need to clean down more often; scrape out

granulation and remove the first 1/3 of the wax core. Clean the inlet cone ports on

shutdown to prevent blockage

o The auger must be able to spin freely to control the wax core and clear the cut wax

effectively

VIBRATION

Excessive “wobbling” or an unbalanced look of the hummer is normally caused by loose hold down bolts

• Check the tightness of all eight hold down bolts regularly

• Hold down bolts must be chemsets to contain the long-term vibration loadings of the process

• Should you have excessive vibration and your hold down bolts are OK, please contact us

immediately

• Excessive vibration caused by loose bolts can result in a broken frame!

To avoid splashing of the honey and the build-up of honey leaks and/or “whoney” (aerated honey):

• Bowl speed should be set to the lowest practical speed necessary to achieve good separation

• Should a high pitch splashing sound be heard, like hard rain, caused by high temperature and/or

high speeds, slow down your humma™

• Ensure the mesh on the shrouds is clean

• If processing hotter slurry, with inlet temperatures between 36°C to 40°C, bowl speeds should be

reduced, between 31hz and 34Hz

• For cooler slurry inlet temperature between 32°C to 36°C, bowl speeds can be increased to

between 34Hz and 38Hz, depending on the viscosity of your honey – for good results, thin / high

moisture honey should be processed at lower speeds

It is very important to consider the entire process in your processing plant and adjust the humma™ settings

to achieve the best results. These process recommendations and the other information in this manual have

been collated from many different installations, honey types and operating conditions, however every

Page | 19

client’s setup is unique and the final setup of a humma™ will vary. Please contact us to discuss your specific

circumstances to optimise your humma™ setup.


8. MACHINE SETUP PROCEDURE

EXTRACTION SHED LAYOUT

Below is a diagram of a recommended extraction shed layout, showing flow of boxes and honey through

the plant. In normal operation, one operator brings full boxes (or supers) into plant via the hot room and

loads the frames into the uncapper and pricker. A second operator takes the prepared frames and loads

them into the extractor(s), then takes empty boxes away.

All honey from the extractors is pumped into the slurry tank under the capper and pricker, along with all

cappings. This tank has a low-speed mixer to keep the honey and wax consistently mixed. This mixture is

then pumped through the heat exchanger and into the humma™. We recommend fitting a thermometer

into the pipework between the heat exchanger and the humma™ to monitor slurry temperature as this has

a significant impact on performance and is very useful information for optimizing your process. Clean

honey pours out of the humma™ 3” outlet pipe under gravity into the clean honey tank, from which it can

be pumped away to storage. Wax is graded from the central wax core and exits through a chute at the

front of the humma™, into a bin placed directly under the front clamp mechanism. We recommend

keeping a bin positioned at the wax outlet during ALL TIMES, as a rapid stop or power failure will cause the

contents of the humma™ (wax AND honey) to pour from this wax outlet.

CAUTION! NEVER place hands or other objects into the wax outlet whilst the machine is running

Page | 21

HONEY TYPE SETUP

To understand how to setup and make adjustments to the machine, it is important to first have some

understanding of the philosophy behind the separation process and the machine operation. Please read

section 7 - Process Recommendations.

If after this process is complete the honey and wax is not satisfactory, refer to the troubleshooting guide in

section 10 for more advanced tuning.

When running a new honey type, start with the machine clean and run through the setup procedure again.

Record all the settings (speeds, temperatures, auger position etc). We recommend keeping this

information near the machine for quick reference.

SHROUD SETUP

The position of the shroud is extremely important. Correct positioning ensures the successful capture of

the separated honey without aeration, foaming or whipping of the honey. Honey should land between 2/3

– 3/4 of the way up the mesh, when viewed through the window in the mesh cover

Adjustments to shroud positioning (to slide and tilt forward and back) are possible but changes to these

settings are not recommended without first consulting the manufacturer.


9. MACHINE ADJUSTMENTS

There are a number of machine adjustments which can optimize the separation of beeswax from honey.

The humma™ is factory set to default settings which are generally suitable for common pasture honey

types; however due to the variable nature of both honey and beeswax, it is important to set up the

machine for your specific honey and wax type.

Manual adjustments:

Ref Adjustment Effect How Adjustment location

1 Auger

adjuster

handle

Adjusting the auger

front up and down will

change the core wall

thickness.

Note

The Auger affects the

wax quality more than

the honey quality

Loosen the flange nut and

rotate the handle.

Clockwise rotation =

decrease wax core wall

thickness (moves Auger

blades toward bowl wall)

Tighten nut after any

adjustment

2 Auger back

adjustment

Adjusting the shaft

height at the back of

the auger will change

the rate the wax is

removed from further

back down the wax

core. This affects the

wax core wall

thickness.

The auger must be removed

to access the offset

adjustment on the end of the

auger shaft. Spanners are

required for this adjustment.

To vary the wax core size,

adjustments to the auger

front position and the dams

should be tried first. Only

adjust the rear of the auger

after having fully tested the

auger handle and dam

positions

Adjust by no more than 5mm

each time

3 Dam

adjustment

Changes to the dam

position will change

the honey depth in the

machine. This affects

the thickness of the

wax core by changing

the boundary point

between the honey

and the wax, which in

turn affects the

dryness of the wax

core. (less wax depth =

more honey depth,

wetter core)

Remove the cone assembly

and separate the cone from

the dam assembly plate. The

4 dams will then be

accessible for adjustment.

Measure distance between

honey dam and edge of

outlet disc as shown.

Reducing this distance

reduces the honey depth.

Adjust all dams by equal

amounts, 1-2mm increments

Page | 23

4 Bowl Speed Changes to the bowl

speed will change the

rate at which the

honey is separated

from the wax.

A higher bowl speed is

required for higher

throughput.

Note: The bowl speed

is too high when there

is no discernible honey

in the beeswax coming

out of the machine.

Manual adjustments can be

made at the control panel. A

max speed of 38hz is

preprogrammed.

Use the lowest speed setting

possible to achieve

satisfactory separation.

32-34 Hz is recommended in

most cases.

5 Honey/wax

slurry temp

Changes to the

temperature will

change the viscosity of

the honey and the ease

at which it can

separate from the wax.

Higher temperatures

can cause softening of

the wax and oversize

cores. Lower

temperatures can

cause hardening of the

wax core, leading to

poor separation.

Recommended honey

temperature is 32°C-

34°C.

Higher flow rates up to

1000kg/hr can be

achieved at the correct

honey temperature for

the honey type.

A Heat exchanger is

necessary to be used in

conjunction with the

humma™ to control

temperature particularly

when processing higher

throughputs. Changes in

slurry temperature can lead

to undesirable processing

results

6 Honey/wax

slurry flow

rate

Changes to the flow

rate into the machine

will affect the

separation efficiency.

Note: Slower flow rate

= better separation,

longer separation time

A variable speed pump is

required to provide a

consistent flow to the

humma™ and ensure smooth

flow of clean honey

Operating

range


10. TROUBLESHOOTING

The table below can be used to provide direction on adjustments needed to be made for various faults.

The recommended adjustments for each cause are listed in priority order.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• Make only one adjustment at a time

• After an adjustment run the humma™ for 15-20 minutes before inspecting for a change

Ref Trouble symptom Possible Cause Recommended adjustment

1 “Dirty Honey”

Some wax or

contaminate is

flowing out with the

honey

Note

The Auger affects

the wax quality

more than the

honey quality

A The machine is not

running smoothly, i.e.

excessive vibration

If the machine is not running smoothly this

must be corrected before proceeding with any

adjustments. Check the fasteners on the floor

to ensure they are secure

B The honey temperature

is too cold

Ensure the honey temperature is within the

recommended limits of 32°C-38°C

C The auger setting is

incorrect

Turn the handle Clockwise by one small notch.

If the honey is not clean a second adjustment

can me made etc… until the honey is

acceptable; or stop and go back one small

notch if the wax becomes too wet and

continue to the next adjustment

D The wax core is over

packed and hardened

Remove the wax core. This is important to

eliminate this as a potential cause

E The dam setting is

incorrect

The Dam level must be Increased, so the dam

setting gap will decrease. Decrease the dam

setting gap by 1mm. Ensure all 4 dams are set

the same and are adjusted using calipers or

gauge (e.g. drill bit) so the adjustment is

accurate.

NOTE: 1mm change in the dam = 6mm change

in the wax core thickness. NEVER adjust more

than 2mm at a time

2 Some foamy honey

is being released

either in the wax or

in the honey

A The honey temperature

is too cold

Ensure the honey temperature is within the

recommended limits of 32°C-38°C

B The honey slurry flow

rate is too high

Check and if necessary reduce the honey slurry

flow rate

C The honey is not

flowing correctly inside

the shroud top covers

Clean the inside of the shroud covers

Contact manufacturer to discuss shroud

adjustment

D The honey is leaking

past the O-ring of the

cone assembly

Refer to point 4 below

Page | 25


3

“Wet Wax”

The wax exits the

machine with too

much honey content

It is important to

have a small amount

of honey in the wax

to lubricate the wax

and avoid wax

sticking together to

form a solid mass

A The machine is not

running smoothly, i.e.

excessive vibration

If the machine is not running smoothly this

must be corrected before proceeding with any

adjustments. Please see directions further in

this table

B The wax core is over

packed and hardened

Remove the wax core and clean the machine

before proceeding. This is important to

eliminate this as a potential cause

C The auger setting is

incorrect

Turn the handle anticlockwise by one small

notch.

If the wax is still wet and honey clean a second

adjustment can me made etc… until the wax is

acceptable; or stop and go back one small

notch if the honey becomes dirty and continue

to the next adjustment

D Bowl speed too slow Ensure the machine is running at no less than

32hz

The machine has a programmed maximum

speed of 38Hz

Note: High speeds increase the possibility of

packing the wax core with intermittent flows.

Avoid running the slurry supply pump via a

level switch

Increase the speed by 2Hz

If necessary increase a further 2Hz to 38hz

E The temperature of the

honey/wax slurry is too

cool

If a heat exchanger is fitted increase the

temperature in increments of 2°C, until a max

is reached. The max temperature varies for

honey types.

Note: Darker wax may allow a higher running

temperature than usually possible

F The pump flow rate

into the humma™ is too

fast

A variable speed pump is required for

optimum efficiency; reduce the speed

incrementally and observe the change after 5

minutes

G The dam setting is

incorrect

The Dam level must be lowered, so the dam

setting gap will increase. Increase the dam

setting gap by 1mm. Ensure all 4 dams are set

the same and are adjusted using calipers or

gauge (e.g. drill bit) so the adjustment is

accurate and equal

NOTE: 1mm change in the dam = 6mm change

in the wax core thickness. NEVER adjust more

than 2mm at a time



4 The humma™ is

vibrating during

operation

A The humma™ is not

bolted firmly to the

floor

Tighten all 8 anchors.

Check for vibration by wetting each foot with

water then run the machine and look for

vibration around each foot

B Incorrect installation:

Poorly installed on an

unleveled floor

Leveling packers must be used if the floor is

out of level by more than 1.5mm. This is

necessary to avoid distorting the frame as it is

bolted to the floor.

Release the bolts on each foot and check for

gaps under any feet. Apply packers if required

C Incorrect installation:

The humma™ is

mounted on isolators

The humma™ must be bolted firmly to the

ground, ISOLATING PACKERS MUST NOT BE

USED

D Frame failure

Check the frame for cracks in the welds. Any

cracks allowing the frame to flex must be

repaired.

E Urethane rings have

failed generally caused

by over temperature or

deformation

Excessive heat can be generated at the rear

seal when the humma™ is run for extended

periods at speed with no flow. Inspect the

rings – they should be perfectly round in

section and not distorted or deformed

Replace the urethane ring. And check the rear

seal assembly for damage

F Front clamp stiffening

screws are loose

allowing the front

clamp to float

Adjust the front clamp stiffening screws to

center the front clamp and remove all

sideways movement

G Drum Damage.

Small dents and any

deformation create out

of balance loads

If the drum has been damaged consult the

manufacturer

H Bearing Failure

This may be identified by a rumbling of the

bearing. And/or excessive heat >80°C (too hot

to touch)

Replace with an new bearing assembly

I The Auger may not be

coupled in place

correctly

Open the machine and check the auger

position. If the auger was not coupled correctly

during operation this may have caused

damage to:

The deflector assembly in the back of the

bowl.

The front clamp assembly where the auger is

attached.

The auger tip or back end.

Check the humma™ for damage and replace

parts where required

Page | 27


5 Honey is leaking

from the cone

assembly

A The O-ring is worn Remove the cone assembly and check the O-

ring in the front of the bowl for damage or

aging deformation. Replace if necessary

(contact manufacturer to ensure the correct

size replacement is used)

B Contamination around

the O-ring is affecting

the seal of the bowl

Remove the cone assembly and remove the O-

ring. Clean the groove, O-ring and the seal

surface on the cone assembly

C Incorrect front clamp

force

Excessive or too little clamping pressure on the

front clamp assembly will encourage the bowl

to leak at the cone assembly. Contact the

manufacturer for assistance on adjusting the

front clamp assembly

D The bowl speed is too

high

Reduce the bowl speed by 1-2Hz

6 Honey is dripping

from the inlet Seal

drain.

A Worn or misaligned

Seal

Remove the seal and clean with warm water.

Inspect for wear or damage. Replace with a

new seal set if required

7 Front clamp

assembly will not

close.

A Auger Alignment Ensure the end of the auger assembly is

located correctly in the back of the bowl.

Rotate the front of the auger to align the auger

tip with the clamp assembly

8 The humma™ will

not start. The bowl

will not rotate

A No power to the

machine

Check the isolator has not been locked out and

the power at the wall socket is on

B The inlet seal has

bonded due to

solidified Honey

(toffee)

Disconnect the inlet coupling and remove the

3x M6 screws retaining the RJT seal retainer.

This will expose the seal components for

cleaning. Clean and reassemble.

DO NOT REMOVE OR ADJUST the grub screws

and nuts – improper adjustment will lead to

leakage and seal failure

C The drive belt may be

worn or contaminated,

causing slip

Remove the back cover to expose the drive

belt and pulleys for inspection

D Wax core is too large or

too cold

Remove wax core manually, clean bowl and

check inlet deflector and outlet dams are clear



9 Honey is aerated A The outfeed pipe is

restricting the honey

flow so that the honey

is building up in the

bottom of the shroud

assembly, this may be

due to incorrect

installation

Check the flow from the humma™ is free

flowing under gravity in a 3” tube or pipe

B Granulated honey may

be blocking the honey

path through the cone

assembly; which forces

the honey though a

smaller orifice

accelerating it to cause

aeration on contact

with the shroud

assembly

Disassemble the cone assembly and clean in

warm water

C Shroud is clogged Remove top shroud and mesh covers and

clean in warm water

10 A white creamy

mixture of honey

and Wax is dropping

into the honey or

wax.

We call this creamy

mixture ‘whoney’

A Honey has flowed out

the center of the bowl

into the wax zone of

the cone assembly,

where is it whipped

with the wax to

produce ‘whoney’.

This issue is usually

evident at start up

when no wax core is

present , or a thin wax

core is present

During start up, with no wax core, the honey

slurry flow rate is too high causing the honey

to flow out through the front of the machine

Option 1 - Stop the machine and clean the

shroud assembly and cone assembly. Restart

with a slower flow rate

Option 2 - keep processing and wait for the

‘whoney’ to clear

During shutdown the residual honey in the

bowl may break through a thin core and flow

out the center of the cone assembly. This

would create whoney if it was not left to drain

fully and cleaned before start up

11 Water Injection Kit

Fitting a water

injection kit to the

humma™ can help

process very difficult

honey and wax

combinations.

Consider adding this

system

A High wax-honey ratios,

e.g. when uncapping 8

frames in a super

rather than 9

A moisture injection kit can dramatically

improve the dryness of the wax by reducing

the viscosity of the remaining honey bound

within the wax core. This allows it to separate

out more easily. This will have no effect on the

measurable moisture content of the processed

honey.

Talk to the manufacturer about a humma™

Water Injection System for your installation

B

Higher throughputs

C Low moisture or high

viscosity honey

Page | 29

11. MACHINE SETTINGS RECORD SHEET

We suggest you record your hummaTM

settings for each honey type you process. If you make a change to

any part of the machine, ensure you record it so it can be set up consistently each time you run!

Machine Variable Default A B C

Drive speed (Hz) 33Hz

Auger Handle

Position (notch) Vertical (6 O’clock)

Slurry temp (°C) 33°C

Auger rear position 40mm

Dam setting 10mm

Machine Variable D E F G

Drive speed (Hz)

Auger Handle

Position (notch)

Slurry temp (°C)

Auger rear position

Dam setting

Machine Variable H I J K

Drive speed (Hz)

Auger Handle

Position (notch)

Slurry temp (°C)

Auger rear position

Dam setting

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