The DRNX SLM by Brood is a specialized beverage dispenser designed for cafes, restaurants, and pantries, capable of transforming non-pressurized liquids into chilled, nitrogen-infused beverages. It draws liquid from any unpressurized container, infuses it with atmospheric nitrogen, and chills it to a precise 2°C (36°F). This process creates a smooth, nitro-infused cold brew or still cold brew, depending on the user's selection.
Function Description:
The primary function of the DRNX SLM is to dispense cold brew coffee or tea that is either still or infused with nitrogen. It operates by pulling a pre-filtered liquid, chilling it, and then, if selected, infusing it with nitrogen before dispensing. The machine is designed for commercial use indoors and requires a trained person for operation. It is crucial that the liquid being dispensed is filtered and not above room temperature (30°C/86°F) to prevent clogging and potential damage to internal components. The device includes a pre-filter that must be installed on the beverage tube to ensure proper filtration and prevent blockages from large particles, especially with coffee.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Dimensions:
- Width: 9.00 inches
- Height: 14.75 inches
- Depth: 18.25 inches
- Weight: 77 lbs
- Dispensing Capacity: 1.7 L/min (0.4 gpm)
- Coffee Temperature at Tap: 2°C (36°F)
- Power Supply:
- 100-120V/60Hz
- 200-240V/50Hz
- Nominal Power: 334W
- Amps: 3.5A
- Refrigerant: R513a/200g
- High Side Pressure: 300 PSI
- Low Side Pressure: 60 PSI
- Operating Environment: 13°C to 32°C (55°F to 90°F), dust-free.
- Storage Environment: 13°C to 40°C (55°F to 104°F), dry, out of reach of children, protected from dust and dirt.
Usage Features:
- Controls: The device features a main ON/OFF switch located at the bottom, a tap button for dispensing, and an infusion button to toggle between nitro and still beverage modes. The infusion button illuminates when nitro mode is active.
- Temperature Control: An integrated display and control panel allow users to monitor and adjust the desired temperature. Buttons include "Info/Setpoint," "Manual defrost/Decrease," "Increase/Manual Activation," and "Exit/Stand-by." The setpoint value can be displayed and adjusted by pressing and holding the "Info/Setpoint" button and then using the increase/decrease buttons.
- Nitrogen Calibration: For fine-tuning the nitrogen infusion level, a calibration knob is accessible by removing the back panel. Turning the knob clockwise decreases the amount of nitro. This is a one-time adjustment for the maximum infusion position.
- Beverage Container Compatibility: The DRNX SLM is versatile, capable of drawing liquid from any non-pressurized container. While a designated BROOD container is recommended, it can also be connected to kegs (with a keg coupler) or bag-in-box systems (with a bag-in-box adaptor). The beverage tube includes elbow fittings for secure connections.
- Priming: When connecting to a new beverage container, it's essential to prime the system by continuously pouring until the beverage flows normally from the spout, accounting for an initial spurt of air.
- Pouring Technique: For optimal results, the cup should be placed beneath the spout at an angle.
- Pre-filter: A pre-filter adapter is included and must be installed on the beverage tube to filter liquids with a fineness of at least 100 µm (microns). This prevents damage to internal components from large particles.
- Drip Tray: A drip tray should be placed beneath the spout to catch any drips.
- Beverage Viscosity: Only filtered liquids should be used to prevent clogging. Thick liquids may slow down the internal liquid pump.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning Process (RINZA): A weekly cleaning process using a Rinza solution is recommended. This involves:
- Filling a container with 1.5L of clean water.
- Adding 180 mL of Rinza solution and an additional 2.5L of clean water to the container.
- Connecting the beverage tube from the machine to the container.
- Connecting the ventilation tube to the port underneath the machine and ensuring the infusion switch is on nitro.
- Running the solution through the system for 40 seconds, letting it stand for 15 minutes, then running the remaining solution through.
- Rinsing the container with clean warm water.
- Filling the container with 3L of fresh water and running it through the tap before re-attaching the cold brew supply line.
- Spout Cleaning: The tip of the spout can be unscrewed and rinsed.
- Pre-filter Cleaning: The pre-filter cover can be unscrewed counter-clockwise to remove and wash the stainless steel mesh with clean hot water, ensuring it is not clogged.
- Daily Flushing: Daily flushing of the DRNX SLM is required as part of routine maintenance to ensure longevity and proper operation.
- Troubleshooting: The manual provides a comprehensive troubleshooting guide for common issues such as too much nitro, pouring problems (e.g., pump running but no liquid, pump shutting off, lacking foam, spraying), continuous dripping, large bubbles, and insufficient cooling. Solutions range from checking connections and pre-filter orientation to defrosting ice in the line, cleaning modules, and adjusting temperature settings.
- Storage: For periods of inactivity longer than two weeks, the machine should be turned off, unplugged, and stored in a dry, dust-free environment between 13°C and 40°C.
- Repairs: All repairs and servicing must be carried out by a service provider or specialized technician. Users should never attempt to operate a faulty machine or perform repairs themselves.
- Disposal: Packaging materials are recyclable. The appliance itself should be delivered to a service center or public waste disposal facility for proper recycling of electrical and electronic equipment, not treated as household waste.