Imperial (Middleby)Pasta Cookers - IPC-18
140,000 BTU | Water-Wash Starch Removal | cETLus & NSF Listed
Give every order the al dente perfection your guests expect. Engineered for heavy-duty, high-volume kitchens, the Imperial IPC-18 delivers rapid recovery, consistent temperatures, and a patented water-wash system that keeps starch build-up under control—all in a compact footprint that fits seamlessly on your cookline.
Features
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16 gal (60 L) 317-alloy stainless steel vessel resists harsh salt concentrations and is robotically welded to virtually eliminate leaks.
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140,000 BTU tube-fired burners with an oval heat exchanger and baffle system distribute heat evenly across the entire tank for faster cook times.
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Exclusive water-wash system continuously sweeps starch off the surface; adjustable from 1 gal/hr to 3 gal/min to match your menu and workflow.
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Millivolt temperature control requires no external electrical connection and includes a 100 % safety shut-off for peace of mind.
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Full-port 1 ¼" drain valve and recessed slanted bottom empty the vessel quickly and safely between batches.
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Durable exterior – stainless steel front, door, sides, and 6" legs withstand daily wear; optional casters add mobility.
Popular Factory Options
- Automatic basket lift system
- Pasta basket racks & wire mesh inserts
- Stainless steel vessel cover & joiner strips
- 3/4" NPT gas quick-disconnect kit with shut-off valve
- 6" locking casters (set of four)
Specifications
| Model |
IPC-18 |
| Water Capacity |
16 gal / 60 L |
| Cooking Area |
18" × 18" (457 × 457 mm) |
| Gas Input |
140,000 BTU /hr (41 kW) |
| Burners |
4 tube-fired |
| Gas Connection |
3/4" NPT, manifold pressure 4" W.C. (Natural) / 11" W.C. (LP) |
| Drain Connection |
1 ¼" full-port valve |
| Overall Dimensions |
19 ½" W × 35 ⅜" D × 47 ⅛" H (495 × 898 × 1197 mm) |
What our Experts Think
- The Imperial (Middleby) IPC-18 Pasta Cooker is a high-capacity, single-tank commercial pasta station designed for fast-paced restaurants, cafeterias, and high-volume production kitchens.
- Experts highlight its 16-gallon stainless steel cooking vessel, allowing continuous batch cooking for pasta, noodles, vegetables, and blanching applications.
- The 140,000 BTU tube-fired heating system delivers rapid boil recovery and stable water temperature, even during heavy load periods.
- Its exclusive water wash system is a standout feature, continuously removing starch buildup to reduce foaming and maintain cleaner, more efficient cooking water.
- Professionals value the millivolt thermostatic control, which provides consistent heat management without requiring external electrical power, improving reliability in busy kitchens.
- The 1-1/4" large drain system enables fast tank emptying and quick turnaround between batches, improving operational efficiency during peak service.
- Built with heavy-duty stainless steel construction (front, sides, door, and vessel), it is engineered for long-term durability, corrosion resistance, and easy sanitation in demanding environments.
- The open-access design with 6" legs supports easy cleaning underneath and stable installation on commercial kitchen floors.
Q&A
Q: What is the Imperial IPC-18 used for?
A: It is a high-volume commercial gas pasta cooker designed for restaurants, hotels, and institutional kitchens to efficiently boil and cook large batches of pasta.
Q: What is its capacity?
A: It features a single 16-gallon (approx. 60L) stainless steel tank, ideal for continuous pasta production during peak service.
Q: How powerful is the IPC-18?
A: It delivers approximately 140,000 BTU via tube-fired burners, providing fast heat-up and strong recovery for nonstop cooking.
Q: Does it offer precise temperature control?
A: Yes, it uses a millivolt thermostatic control system for consistent water temperature without requiring external power.
Q: How does it improve cooking efficiency?
A: It includes a water wash system and tube-fired heat exchanger that evenly distributes heat and reduces starch buildup for cleaner, faster operation.
Q: Is it easy to clean?
A: Yes, it has a 1-1/4" drain, stainless steel construction, and integrated water wash system for quick draining and sanitation.
Q: What materials is it made from?
A: It is built with heavy-duty stainless steel (including vessel, front, sides, and door) for durability and long-term commercial use.
Maintenance Tips
- Drain and rinse cook tank daily to remove starch, salts, and food debris
- Clean stainless steel vessel and exterior daily with warm soapy water (non-abrasive)
- Remove and wash baskets, crumb screens, and accessories daily for hygiene and performance
- Maintain proper water level at all times during operation to protect heat tubes
- Replace cooking water more frequently during heavy use to prevent starch buildup
- Clean rinse tank regularly and refresh with cold/ice water as needed for starch control
- Perform weekly boil-out with approved cleaning solution to remove internal deposits
- Scrub vessel thoroughly after boil-out and rinse completely before reuse
- Inspect drain valve weekly to ensure smooth operation and no clogging
- Check thermostat accuracy periodically for correct temperature control (around 200°F range)
- Inspect burners and ignition system for steady operation and clean ports
- Ensure gas connections are leak-free (qualified technician only)
- Keep ventilation hood and surrounding area free of steam and grease buildup
- Schedule professional servicing every 6–12 months for safety, efficiency, and longevity