Whitmee

• Small to medium-scale commercial coffee roasting operations.
• Speciality coffee shops looking to roast their own beans.
• Coffee estates or cooperatives for processing their harvest.
• Refurbishment projects for historical machinery enthusiasts or businesses seeking unique equipment.

Typical capacity

This unit is specified at 100kg per batch. For this class of equipment, batch sizes commonly range from 60kg to 120kg.

Power supply

Units of this vintage and type typically operate on a diesel-fired heating system, with electrical components for motors commonly requiring 3-phase power (e.g., 400V, 50Hz in many regions).

Heating method

Vintage roasters like this Whitmee unit commonly utilise direct flame or hot air generated from a diesel burner.

Associated equipment

For a complete roasting process, units of this size typically include a cyclone for chaff separation and a destoner to remove foreign objects from green beans.

Footprint

A 100kg roaster, including its associated cyclone and destoner, typically requires a significant industrial footprint, often several square metres, with adequate ventilation.

Construction materials

Roasters of this era are commonly constructed from robust cast iron and heavy-gauge steel, ensuring durability and heat retention.

• What maintenance is typically required for a vintage roaster?

  Regular maintenance for vintage roasters includes cleaning of roasting drums and cooling trays, inspection of burners and exhaust systems, and lubrication of moving parts. Electrical and mechanical components may require periodic refurbishment.

• Can this type of roaster be converted to run on other fuels?

• What are the benefits of a vintage roaster compared to modern units?

• What considerations are there for shipping a large roaster internationally?

• Is technical support or spare parts available for vintage Whitmee roasters?

Used roasters are valued for their durability and cost effectiveness in food processing operations. Buyers typically prioritise even heat distribution, temperature control consistency, and robust construction when selecting secondhand units. Industry sentiment favours roasters from established manufacturers known for reliable performance. Key considerations include maintenance history, heating element condition, and capacity matching operational requirements. Well-maintained roasters often deliver dependable service across coffee roasting, nut processing, and other food applications, making them sound investments for processors seeking to minimise capital expenditure.

General overview for this equipment type