Bud Trimmer

*Original models were known as "The Satellite"

$8,999.00

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PRODUCT SUMMARY

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The Bud Trimmer removes unwanted leaves from cannabis and hemp flowers and is the only solution that can deliver trim quality that surpasses manual methods. The key to the Bud Trimmer’s superiority is that it allows the user to adjust multiple variables in the way it trims in order to adjust for wet and dry product, as well as different strains, sizes, and growing methods.

 

Pricing:

Ez Trimmer- $8,999.00

Download our complete informational PDF

The key to a successful, and profitable harvest is to reduce the amount of touch up required prior to packaging.  

Regardless of the trimming equipment you are currently using or the size of your harvest, if you must touch up 70-80% of the buds prior to packaging, you are not harvesting as efficiently as you could be.

Ez Trim is a Colorado based company that for the last 12 years has developed harvesting equipment and systems that reduce the touch up process from 70-80% down to 30-50%.

Whether you prefer to trim wet or dry, have a large staff or small, our products and services can be tailored to compliment your unique situation and current resources. 

When you factor all the steps of the harvesting process, including: defanning, cutting, weighing, drying, bucking, trimming, touching up, curing and packaging. Reducing the handling through this process is what increases profitability.

Ask yourself, if there was a company that provided equipment and systems, that cost less, produced better bud quality, offered onsite consulting, was built by growers, and had a money back guarantee, would you have anything to lose? 

Please contact us if you are not experiencing these results. We know we can help!!!

This Cannabis and Hemp Bud Trimmer is not only quiet and lightweight, but also features the following unique adjustable controls:

-Bud Movement through Airflow and Suction

The air flow is considered properly adjusted when it moves the product around the grate while also allowing the silicone fingers to separate and roll the product. Properly adjusting the airflow and suction eliminates excessive handling and unnecessary agitation.

-Rotation & Separation of Product

This is something you will want to adjust based on whether you are trimming wet or dry product as well as adjusting for different strains. Properly adjusting the rotation and separation will reduce batch times.

The Bud Trimmer is not only quiet and lightweight, but also features the following unique adjustable controls:

-Wet & Dry Trim Functionality

Properly adjusting the cutting blade and implementing the different grates for wet and dried product will ensure a quality trim without damaging buds.

-Batch Time Control

The Bud Trimmer allows you to watch the product as it is being trimmed, and adjust cycle times, based on what you see during each batch. Every strain and batch are different, so it is important to adjust accordingly. Proper batch time control ensures that buds are trimmed to your desired level of quality.

Our patented and unique filtration system comes with four collection bags which have varying micron levels for separating and collecting the leaf as it’s trimmed. The first bag collects the larger leaf & stem. This product from this level is good for extraction and separates most of the chlorophyll filled leaf. The second bag collects your sweet leaf making it excellent for extraction & pre-rolls. The third bag is your B grade keif (green), and the fourth bag is your A grade keif (gold). Separating the trim and keif has a lot of upside for both the extraction and creating new revenue streams. Additionally, these bags can also be utilized for manual dry sifting.

IT IS CRUCIAL THAT THE PRODUCT IS DRIED AND PREPPED PROPERLY PRIOR TO TRIMMING, THIS MEANS, ALL OF THE FLOWERS HAVE BEEN INDIVIDUALIZED, AND THAT THE OUTER LEAVES SNAP, AND DO NOT BEND AT ALL WHEN DISTURBED

  • Ensure the product is dry enough for trimming (leaves should snap when disturbed)
  • Adjust airflow with inner lids open and closed to optimize internal flow rate
  • Adjust rotor speed and direction to optimize trim cycle
  • Be sure to utilize the dry trimming grate (If the product is still too moist to trim, try trimming using the wet trim grate)
  • Proper preparation is key to quality trimming – individualize all buds, remove fan leaves and keep no more than an ⅛” to 1/4 “of stem at the base of the buds
  • If the product isn’t trimmed in under a minute, the product is too wet
  • If the product is still too wet and it is time to trim, open containers the product is being stored in and increase airflow on the product
  • There is a balance of quality and speed for every strain, some strains require zero touch up, while others need some, find the optimal trimming cycle time and touch up required that creates the best quality and efficiency
  • Quality control or touch up should be happening simultaneously
  •  

HOW TO INSTALL THE DRY GRATE PRIOR TO TRIMMING:

1.Remove the motor assembly from the drum

2.With the drum in the upside-down position, unscrew the grate screws

3.Place one hand through the drum gate opening, sandwich the grate with both hands and push the grate up at an angle

4.Place the new grate down in the same manner you removed it

5.Be sure that the label of the gate – “Wet grate or Dry grate” is positioned inside the gate window opening and that all screw holes are positioned over the rubber

6.Reinstall the grate screws and ensure that you do not over tighten them but that the screw heads are completely flush with the grate

7.Reinstall the motor assembly

8.If there is a gap between the drum and the grate at the window gate opening, use a small amount of silicone to seal it

  • Buck and trim within 2-3 hours of harvest and before the leaves get squished or start to curl in
  • Avoid piling the wet bucked flowers too high or for too long, as it can squish the product making it difficult to trim and effecting quality
  • Dialing in the blade effectively will dramatically change the closeness of the trim, the blade should be no less than 1/16”- 1/8” from the bottom of the grate at all points
  • Proper preparation is key to quality trimming – individualize all buds, remove fan leaves and keep no more than an ⅛” to 1/4 “of stem at the base of the buds
  • If a strain requires a longer trimming cycle time, and in order to avoid sacrificing quality, decide if it makes more sense to just allow the trimmer to do 80% of the trim quickly and touch up the rest with scissors
  • There is a balance of quality and speed for every strain, some strains require zero touch up, while others need some, find the optimal trimming cycle time and touch up required that creates the best quality and efficiency
  • Quality control or touch up should be happening simultaneously with trimming and with the proper team should not be a bottleneck in the process (to avoid bottlenecking and if necessary, increase the number of employees on quality control)

 

HOW TO INSTALL THE WET GRATE PRIOR TO TRIMMING:

1.Remove the motor assembly from the drum

2.With the drum in the upside-down position, unscrew the grate screws

3.Place one hand through the drum gate opening, sandwich the grate with both hands and push the grate up at an angle

4.Place the new grate down in the same manner you removed it

5.Be sure that the label of the gate – “Wet grate or Dry grate” is positioned inside the gate window opening and that all screw holes are positioned over the rubber

6.Reinstall the grate screws and ensure that you do not over tighten them but that the screw heads are completely flush with the grate

7.Reinstall the motor assembly

8.If there is a gap between the drum and the grate at the window gate opening, use a small amount of silicone to seal it

WET TRIMMING

AVERAGE THROUGHPUT for every Bud Trimmer should be 20,000 grams (44 LBS) per hour of fresh buds or 5,000 grams (11 LBS) per hour of dried finished buds

DRY TRIMMING

AVERAGE THROUGHPUT for every Bud Trimmer should be 15,000 grams (33 LBS) per hour of dried finished buds

Weight: 85 lbs.

Ship weight: 105 lbs.

Assembled Dimensions: 32″L x 43″W x 43″H

Ship Dimensions: 32″L x 32″W x 32″H

Production (single operator): 20-30 lbs./hr. (Wet trimming in wet weight, dry trimming in dry weight)

MSRP: $ 8,999.00

Materials Exposed to Plants:

Aluminum 6061 – FG; Stainless Steel – FG; Silicone – FG; Nylon – FG 

UL Certified Components:

 5 wire harness(Control Box); Gear Motor; Fuse Holder; AC to DC 5V Power Supply; 4 Channel DC 5V Relay Module; Touch Screen; Motor Speed; Controller; Control Box Microcontroller; 9′ power chord; Meanwell power supply; Main Motor; Capacitor

Power:

120 VAC; 60 HZ; Single Phase; 10 Amps; 1200 Watts

HOW IT WORKS

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The Bud Trimmer removes unwanted leaves from cannabis and hemp flowers and is the only solution that delivers trim quality that surpasses manual methods.

The key to the Bud Trimmers superiority, is that it allows the user to adjust the way in which it trims, for wet and dry product, as well as different strains, sizes, and growing methods.

The Bud Trimmer is not only quiet, lightweight, and filters your trim, it has the following unique adjustable controls, that make it second to none: Bud Movement, rotation and separation, Wet and Dry Trimming, batch time, and Trim Collection

Multiple Bud Trimmers provide advantages to a single larger trimmer:

  • 1 person can easily operate 4 Bud Trimmers
  • Redundancy
  • Trim multiple strains simultaneously
  • Adjust the trimming dynamics as needed for different strains and moisture levels simultaneously

The Bud Trimmer has a fan blade directly below the cutting blade that does several things. First, the fan blade creates suction to pull the leaf down through the grate and into the filtration bags. Second, it creates a controllable vortex of air that assists in moving and dispersing the product along the grate as it’s trimmed. Lastly, it agitates the clipped leaf in the filtration bags, helping to remove the trichomes as they are filtered through the bags. The suction and airflow created by the fan blade is controlled using the airflow controller and by the two inner lids on the top of the machine. Adjusting the airflow properly is key to achieving an efficient trim cycle and eliminating potential damage.

The two inner lids can be opened or closed, to increase or decrease air flow and suction. With one or both inner lids open, the suction will increase, and the airflow will decrease. This allows you to create stronger airflow for the movement of wet or heavier product or less airflow, and more suction, for slowing down the movement of dry or delicate product. The airflow controller is used to prop open the back inner lid, allowing you to fine tune the amount of airflow and suction. Adjust the airflow controller according to the strain, size, and density of the wet or dried product. The air flow is considered properly adjusted when it predominately moves the product around the grate, while still allowing the silicone fingers to separate and roll the product. Properly adjusting the airflow and suction eliminates excessive handling and friction.

The rotating soft silicone fingers and delicate brushes are used to help separate and roll the product along the grate. Both the direction and speed can be controlled. Slowing down the brushes will minimize agitation on delicate product, while running the brushes on higher speeds, or in reverse – which is the opposite direction of the airflow, can create more agitation, and quicker trim cycles. The goal is to adjust the brushes, and the airflow, so that the product is being moved by the air, then rolled and separated by the brushes. Wet flowers, and specific dry strains, require more agitation than others, and thus, require the brushes to be run at higher speeds. Typically, we recommend that you run the brushes in the forward direction, and at higher speeds. Again, this is something you will want to adjust based on whether you are trimming wet or dry product, as well as for different strains and densities. Properly adjusting the rotation and separation will reduce batch times.

WET AND DRY BUD TRIMMING MODES USING THE GRATES AND CUTTING BLADE

  • PROPERLY ADJUSTING THE CUTTING BLADE AND IMPLEMENTING THE GRATES FOR WET AND DRIED PRODUCT WILL ENSURE A QUALITY TRIM, WITHOUT EFFECTING THE STRUCTURE OF THE BUDS.

Wet and Dry Grates:

To accommodate trimming both wet and dried buds, the Bud Trimmer comes standard with a wet grate and dry grate. The surface of the grates have openings that allow the suction to pull the leaves down through the grate, and then into the trim collection bags. The size of the openings is larger for wet trimming and smaller for dry trimming. The dry grate with smaller openings ensures that dried buds do not break apart or fall through the grate during trimming. The wet grate, with the larger openings, ensures that the leaves of fresh buds pass through the openings and receive a close trim from the cutting blade. Optionally, dried buds that aren’t quite dry enough for the dry grate, can sometimes be trimmed using the wet grate.

Cutting Blade:

The cutting blade can be raised and lowered to accommodate trimming. The cutting blade needs to be raised to its closest point for wet trimming and should be removed for dry trimming. As with all dry trimmers, the leaves are trimmed by way of friction and agitation and not by a cutting blade. When dry trimming, the cutting blade only trims the buds stems, and minces the leaf. We recommend removing the cutting blade prior to dry trimming in order to avoid mincing the trim too fine.

Controlling the amount of time the buds are in the trimmer is imperative to producing quality results. With other trimmers, you put the product in one end, and then you don’t really know how well it has been trimmed until it comes out the other end. The Bud Trimmer allows you to watch the product as it is being trimmed and adjust cycle times based on what you see during each batch. Every strain and batch are different, so it is important to adjust accordingly. Proper batch time control ensures that flowers do not get over or under trimmed.

Batch time is what separates the Bud Trimmer from tunnel-style trimmers. As opposed to tunnel-style trimmers where the buds are only being trimmed in a very narrow section of the cylinder(s), the Bud Trimmer allows the buds to maintain constant contact with the entire cutting surface. These shorter batch times are what gives you more control over the trimming process.

Our patented and unique filtration system comes with four collection bags with varying micron levels for separating and collecting the leaf as it’s trimmed. The first bag collects the larger leaf and stem, containing and separating the heavier chlorophyll-based product. The second bag collects your sweet leaf and is excellent for extraction and pre-rolls. The third bag is your B grade keif, and the fourth bag is your A grade keif. Separating the trim and keif, can create more control over potency levels when extracting. These bags can also be utilized as a dry sifter. Properly utilizing the trim collection will eliminate waste, improve potency and profitability of your concentrates. Optionally, you can use just the 1st bag and 4th bag and allow the sugar trim and keif to collect in the same bag,

“When the Bud Trimmer’s components are adjusted properly and well grown buds are properly dried and prepped, the expected results should be superior quality to manual methods, and in half the time, and with half the staff.” – Joe Black – Owner, Founder and President of Ez Trim

HOW TO ASSEMBLE & OPERATE

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LOWER STAND

  1. Cross bar x 2
  2. Elbows x 4
  3. Sides x 4
  4. Upper stand
  5. Sides x 4
  6. Mounting plate with plunge pins x 2
  7. Drum knobs x 2

DRUM

  1. Rubber inner drum x 2
  2. Aluminum inner drum liner x 1
  3. Gate window guides with plates x 2
  4. Wet grate x1
  5. Dry grate x 1
  6. Drum side mounts x 2
  7. Draw latch keepers x 8
  8. Link lock latches x 4

LID

  1. Outer lid – front x 1
  2. Outer lid – back – x 1
  3. Inner lids with knobs x 2
  4. Airflow controller x 1
  5. Draw latches x 4
  6. Spring draw latches x 2
  7. Control box with power cords x 1
  8. Lid plate x 1
  9. Adjustment bracket buttons x 4

MOTOR

  1. Main motor x 1
  2. Cutting blade with hub x 1
  3. Fan blade with hub x 1
  4. Motor plate x 1
  5. Motor legs x 4
  6. Adjustment brackets x 4
  7. Adjustment knobs with bolts and collar x 4
  8. Link lock latch keepers x 4
  9. Junction box with power cord  x 1
  10. Motor cover x 1

CHUTE

  1. Chute x 1

FILTRATION BAGS

  1. Bag 1 x 1
  2. Bag 2  x 1
  3. Bag 3 x 1
  4. Bag 4 x 1
  1. Remove plastic and cut banding to remove box from pallet
  2. Remove the chute, stand, drum with motor assembly, and filtration bags from the box
  3. Unlatch the outer lids and remove the drum knobs and maintenance kit
  4. Remove the plastic protection from both sides of the lids and fasten the draw latches
  5. If trimming wet or dry be sure to check that the correct grate is installed, the grate is labeled on the top front
  6. Extend the lower stand from the upper stand until the snap buttons engage (ensure all four snap buttons have engaged)
  7. Insert the 2 drum knobs into the holes of the stand side plates and screw into the drum side mounts (Do not tighten yet)
  8. Grab the drum knobs and drum and lift the drum until the stand is underneath, spread stand legs until fully opened
  9. Secure the drum knobs and engage the plunge pins
  10. Dial in the blade (Please reference the steps below for dialing in the blade)
  11. Disengage the plunge pins and loosen the drum knobs 2-3 turns
  12. Rotate the drum upside down and tighten the knobs
  13. Install the four filtration bags by stretching them around the bottom of the drum and above the link lock latches starting with bag #1 (the bags have number tags at the top of one of the side hems, keep the bags inside out)
  14. Loosen the drum knobs, rotate the unit back to upright, tighten the drum knobs and engage the plunge pins
  15. Slide the flower collection chute into the guides on the front of the machine
  16. Place a collection bucket or bin below the chute
  17. Plug in the 4-pin power cord from the control box into the main motor junction box
  18. Plug the unit into a 120 VAC power outlet
  19. The Ez Trimmer is ready for use

HOW TO CALIBRATE THE CUTTING BLADE

  1. This is something you want to preferably do before attaching the collection bags; however, you can make fine tune adjustments even after attaching the collection bags
  2. There are 4 blade height adjustment knobs on the motor assembly that we use to raise and lower the cutting blade, for most strains we will adjust the cutting blade as close as we can to the bottom of the grate, for strains that  have long nodes and or pistols we may need to back the blade down slightly to ensure we avoid damaging the flower
  3. We want to start the adjustment process by inspecting the distance between the blade and grate and ensuring that the blade is approximately 1/8” away from the grate, make sure that the gapping is consistent around the circumference of the grate
  4. Start by opening the inner lids and turning the main motor on
  5. We’ll raise the blade by turning the knobs counterclockwise (when looking down from the top of the unit), we want to make sure we do it evenly, a couple of turns on the front 2 knobs and then a couple of turns on the back 2 knobs, we will repeat this process until we make very slight contact with the bottom of the grate, once contact has been made, back that knob down ¼ turn, repeat this process, front to back several times, If at any time through the trimming process you hear the blade start to rub against the grate simply back the knob down ¼ turn at the contact point
  6. Close the 2 inner lids and ensure that the blade is not rubbing against the grate when the lids are closed, turn the main motor off and inspect the gapping between the blade and the grate ensure that it is consistent at all four adjustability points and around the circumference of the grate
  7. Always ensure there is a green felt pad (extras can be found with the tool kit)  on top of the cutting blade prior to dialing in the blade and before trimming
  8. The felt pad supports the grate while trimming  and ensures that the blade and grate do not rub in the center
  9. Replace the felt pad often and as needed or when warn

Note: The most important aspect of hybrid trimming, and dry trimming, is moisture level in the flowers. Too much and it won’t trim, too little and the flowers will become fragile. We recommend checking for dryness by disturbing one of the outer leaves, if it bends it is not dry enough. The leaves need to snap when disturbed. Typically, the product is ready to trim when the plants and the room have homogenized to an ambient RH of 30 – 40%. The best way to ensure proper moisture levels is to supply adequate air flow on the product when drying. With proper airflow you can dry the outer leaves while still maintaining some sponginess to the inside of the flowers.

STEP 1 – DRYING INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. Remove the fan leaves 1-2 days before harvesting your plants and before trimming
  2. Hang dry the plants and screen dry the flowers in a humidity-controlled environment for 5-7 Days or until the plants and room homogenize to an ambient level of 50 – 60% RH
  3. Take your dried plants and remove the main branches from the stock

STEP 2 – SHUCKING INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. Next remove the flowers from the stem using the Debudder, it’s best to individualize the stems as much as you can
  2. Shucking should occur after Drying is complete
  3. We recommend shucking the plants when partially dried to 50-60% RH, then continue drying and curing the shucked flowers prior to trimming
  4. It is crucial when shucking dried flowers that you shuck them at the proper moisture level to avoid any excess breakdown of the colas, we recommend shucking between 50-60% RH
  5. If you need to shuck and trim on the same day, and prior to curing, dry the plants to 30 – 40% RH, run the debudder on a very slow speed and expect a small amount of breakdown to your top colas

STEP 4 – CURING INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. Place the shucked flowers into sealed containers for curing
  2. Sweat and burp them in a controlled environment until shucked flowers homogenize to roughly 30 -40% RH
  3. Curing the flowers with the leaves on will improve your trim and concentrates, as well as homogenize the small flowers moisture level with the larger
  4. If shucking and trimming on the same day, be sure to still cure the product, post trimming, for at least 5-7 days
  5. Drying and curing to proper RH levels is the most important part of the harvesting process, and will ensure great smell and taste if done properly
  6. IT IS CRUCIAL THAT THE PRODUCT IS DRIED AND PREPPED PROPERLY PRIOR TO TRIMMING, THIS MEANS, ALL OF THE FLOWERS HAVE BEEN INDIVIDUALIZED, AND THAT THE OUTER LEAVES SNAP, AND DO NOT BEND AT ALL WHEN DISTURBED

STEP 4 – TRIMMING INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. To start trimming, turn on the main motor, then set the brushes to forward and adjust the speed to high or your preferred setting
  2. Changing the speed and or direction of the brushes will affect the amount of agitation to the product, different strains require different amount of agitation, find a setting that works best for each strain, we recommend starting on forward and fast
  3. Place roughly 300-400 grams of flowers into the machine, the amount of product should fill up the shoot when trimming is complete
  4. Use the air flow controller and lids to adjust the amount of suction and vortex inside the drum, with popcorn buds or lighter strains you may need to run the entire cycle with one or both of the inner lids open, with dense or heavier strains you may need to run the entire cycle with both inner lids closed, find the amount of airflow that works best for each strain, we recommend starting with the inner lids closed or with the back lid cracked
  5. Allow the product to trim for 30 – 60 seconds depending on the strain, when the product is done trimming, tilt the drum down, open the drum gate, turn the rotor motor to forward and allow the product to exit into the chute, opening and closing the back inner lid will speed up this process
  6. When the drum is empty, close the drum gate, tilt the drum upright, and reload the machine
  7. While the next batch is running, open the chute gate and allow the product to empty into an appropriate container.
  8. Optionally – install the chute sock around the base of the chute to avoid having to open and close the chute hatch when emptying
  9. AVERAGE THROUGHPUT for every Ez Trimmer should be 15,000 grams (33 LBS) per hour of dried finished flower

TIPS AND TRICKS:

  • Clean filtration bags and motor cover often to avoid residue
  • Thoroughly cleaning the machines after EACH use is imperative to longevity and producing a quality product over time. Please refer to the accompanied cleaning information or watch our cleaning videos. https://www.eztrim.com/2020/04/08/video-library/
  • Ensure the product is dry enough for trimming (leaves should snap when disturbed)
  • Adjust airflow with inner lids open and closed to optimize internal flow rate
  • Adjust rotor speed and direction to optimize trim cycle
  • Be sure to utilize the dry trimming grate (If the product is still too moist to trim, try trimming using the wet trim grate)
  • Proper preparation is key to quality trimming – individualize all flowers, remove fan leaves and keep no more than an ⅛” to 1/4 “of stem at the base of the flowers
  • If the product isn’t trimmed in under a minute, the product is too wet
  • If the product is still too wet and it is time to trim, open containers the product is being stored in and increase airflow on the product
  • There is a balance of quality and speed for every strain, some strains require zero touch up, while others need some, find the optimal trimming cycle time and touch up required that creates the best quality and efficiency
  • Quality control or touch up should be happening simultaneously

INSTALL THE DRY GRATE PRIOR TO TRIMMING

1.Remove the motor assembly from the drum

2.With the drum in the upside-down position, unscrew the grate screws

3.Place one hand through the drum gate opening, sandwich the grate with both hands and push the grate up at an angle

4.Place the new grate down in the same manner you removed it

5.Be sure that the label of the gate – “Wet grate or Dry grate” is positioned inside the gate window opening and that all screw holes are positioned over the rubber

6.Reinstall the grate screws and ensure that you do not over tighten them but that the screw heads are completely flush with the grate

7.Reinstall the motor assembly

8.If there is a gap between the drum and the grate at the window gate opening, use a small amount of silicone to seal it

OPERATION

STEP 1 – SHUCKING INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. Remove the flowers from the stem using the Debudder, it’s best to individualize the stems as much as you can
  2. Adjust the Debudder speed control dial to the appropriate speed for the product, we recommend 30 – 50% and higher, for wet product
  3. Dialing in the speed for each strain is crucial, slower isn’t always better, try to find the speed that allows the product to really pop off the stem
  4. When shucking wet flowers, be sure to shuck and trim immediately after harvesting, do not allow the harvested plants to sit for more than a few hours before shucking and trimming, doing so can cause the leaves to curl in, and flowers to squish, effecting trim quality

STEP 2 – TRIMMING INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. To start trimming, turn on the main motor, then set the brushes to forward and adjust the speed to high or your preferred setting
  2. Changing the speed and or direction of the brushes will affect the amount of agitation to the product, different strains require different amount of agitation, find a setting that works best for each strain, we recommend starting on forward and fast
  3. Place roughly 200-400 grams of flowers into the machine
  4. Use the air flow controller and lids to adjust the amount of suction and vortex inside the drum, typically when wet trimming you will run the entire cycle with both inner lids closed, or perhaps the back inner lid cracked
  5. Allow the product to trim for 1-2 minutes depending on the strain, when the product is done trimming, tilt the drum down, open the drum gate, and allow the product to exit into the chute, opening and closing the back inner lid will speed up this process
  6. When the drum is empty, close the drum gate, tilt the drum upright, and reload the machine
  7. While the next batch is running, open the chute gate and allow the product to empty into an appropriate container
  8. Optionally – install the chute sock around the base of the chute to avoid having to open and close the chute hatch when emptying
  9. As one batch is being trimmed, the operator should be inspecting and touching up the previous batch as necessary
  10. If a strain requires a longer trimming cycle time, and in order to avoid sacrificing quality, decide if it makes more sense to just allow the trimmer to do 80% of the trim quickly and touch up the rest with scissors
  11. There is a balance of quality and speed for every strain, some strains require zero touch up, while others need some, find the optimal trimming cycle time and touch up required that creates the best quality and efficiency
  12. Quality control or touch up should be happening simultaneously with trimming and with the proper team should not be a bottleneck in the process (to avoid bottlenecking and if necessary, increase the number of employees on quality control)
  13. Quality Control, or touch up, can also be done post drying, often, the handling process of drying and curing will remove any excess leaf naturally
  14. AVERAGE THROUGHPUT for every Ez Trimmer should be 20,000 grams (44 LBS) per hour of fresh flower or 5,000 grams (11 LBS) per hour of dried finished flower
  15. For clients that prefer hand trimming and hang drying or smaller operations that don’t need the capacity of the Ez Trimmer we offer the Wander Trimmer for fast and efficient trimming of your wet product.

STEP 3 – DRYING INSTRUCTION:

  1. After the product has been trimmed, place the flowers on drying racks for 5-7 days in a climate-controlled room with plenty of airflow, and until the product and room homogenize to 50-60% RH
  2. ¼” mesh screen is ideal for drying racks, and will help to eliminate any flattening that may occur

STEP 4 – CURING INSTRUCTIONS

  1. After the product is dried, place the flowers in sealed containers to cure, for no less than 5-7 days, burping 1-2 times daily for 30-60 minutes, and until the container’s RH level reaches 30 – 40%
  2. Drying and curing to proper RH levels is the most important part of the harvesting process, and will ensure great smell and taste if done properly, even when trimming wet

TIPS AND TRICKS :

  • Debud and trim within 2-3 hours of harvest and before the leaves get squished or start to curl in
  • Avoid piling the wet shucked flowers too high or for too long, as it can squish the product making it difficult to trim and effecting quality
  • Dialing in the blade effectively will dramatically change the closeness of the trim, the blade should be no less than 1/16”- 1/8” from the bottom of the grate at all points
  • Proper preparation is key to quality trimming – individualize all flowers, remove fan leaves and keep no more than an ⅛” to 1/4 “of stem at the base of the flowers
  • If a strain requires a longer trimming cycle time, and in order to avoid sacrificing quality, decide if it makes more sense to just allow the trimmer to do 80% of the trim quickly and touch up the rest with scissors
  • There is a balance of quality and speed for every strain, some strains require zero touch up, while others need some, find the optimal trimming cycle time and touch up required that creates the best quality and efficiency
  • Quality control or touch up should be happening simultaneously with trimming and with the proper team should not be a bottleneck in the process (to avoid bottlenecking and if necessary, increase the number of employees on quality control)

 

INSTALL THE WET GRATE PRIOR TO TRIMMING

1.Remove the motor assembly from the drum

2.With the drum in the upside-down position, unscrew the grate screws

3.Place one hand through the drum gate opening, sandwich the grate with both hands and push the grate up at an angle

4.Place the new grate down in the same manner you removed it

5.Be sure that the label of the gate – “Wet grate or Dry grate” is positioned inside the gate window opening and that all screw holes are positioned over the rubber

6.Reinstall the grate screws and ensure that you do not over tighten them but that the screw heads are completely flush with the grate

7.Reinstall the motor assembly

8.If there is a gap between the drum and the grate at the window gate opening, use a small amount of silicone to seal it

The filtration bags are used to catch and separate the fan leaves and stem from the sugar leaf and keif. The leaf is pulled down through the grate and through the 4 filtration bags by the fan on the main motor. Because proper airflow is critical in this process, IT IS  EXTREMELY IMPORTANT TO KEEP THE BAGS AND MOTOR COVER CLEAN. The following are tips and tricks for using and maintaining the filtration bags and motor cover:

FILTRATION BAGS

  1. When installing the filtration bags be sure to install the #1 bag (large openings) first, the bags should sit directly above the link lock latches and around the base of the drum
  2. Install bags 2, 3 then 4 in the same manner
  3. Install the filtration bags with the hem side out (inside out), this inhibits build-up in the hem and makes them easier to clean
  4. Empty the filtration bags often while trimming and prior to the first bag being overfilled
  5. To clean and empty the filtration bags during the trimming process
    1. place a container below the bags
    2. remove the bags from the trimmer
    3. empty one by one, starting with bag #1, into a separate container,
    4. Using your hands, rub the material together to quickly clean
  6. To clean the filtration bags and motor cover after trimming:
    1. Using a 50-gallon drum, garbage can or the trimmer drum, pull the filtration bag around the drum until it conforms around it
    2. Spray the filtration bag with Denatured alcohol or heavy duty simple green and spray clean using a pressure washer or high-pressure hose
    3. Inside out the bag and repeat the cleaning process

Note: You can optionally take the bags to the laundromat to clean, but If doing so, be sure the bags are free of loose debris and do not run the wash and dry cycles on HOT

MOTOR COVER

  1. To remove the motor cover, uninstall the cutting blade and fan blade
  2. Clean the motor cover by soaking and spraying clean
  3. CLEAN THE MOTOR COVER OFTEN TO AVOID DAMAGING THE MOTOR
  4. Reinstall the motor cover hem side out (inside out), be sure that it is properly seated around the base of the motor

WET AND DRY TRIMMING MODES USING THE GRATES AND CUTTING BLADE

  • PROPERLY ADJUSTING THE CUTTING BLADE AND IMPLEMENTING THE GRATES FOR WET AND DRIED PRODUCT WILL ENSURE A QUALITY TRIM, WITHOUT EFFECTING THE STRUCTURE OF THE FLOWERS.

Wet and Dry Grates:

To accommodate trimming both wet and dried flowers, the Ez Trimmer comes standard with a wet grate and dry grate. The surface of the grates have openings that allow the suction to pull the leaves down through the grate, and then into the trim collection bags. The size of the openings is larger for wet trimming and smaller for dry trimming. The dry grate with smaller openings ensures that dried flowers do not break apart or fall through the grate during trimming. The wet grate, with the larger openings, ensures that the leaves of fresh flowers pass through the openings and receive a close trim from the cutting blade. Optionally, dried flowers that aren’t quite dry enough for the dry grate, can sometimes be trimmed using the wet grate.

Cutting Blade:

The cutting blade can be raised and lowered to accommodate trimming. The cutting blade needs to be raised to its closest point for wet trimming and should be removed for dry trimming. As with all dry trimmers, the leaves are trimmed by way of friction and agitation and not by a cutting blade. When dry trimming, the cutting blade only trims the flowers stems, and minces the leaf. We recommend removing the cutting blade prior to dry trimming in order to avoid mincing the trim too fine.

HOW TO REPLACE THE GRATE

1.Remove the motor assembly from the drum

2.With the drum in the upside-down position, unscrew the grate screws

3.Place one hand through the drum gate opening, sandwich the grate with both hands and push the grate up at an angle

4.Place the new grate down in the same manner you removed it

5.Be sure that the label of the gate – “Wet grate or Dry grate” is positioned inside the gate window opening and that all screw holes are positioned over the rubber

6.Reinstall the grate screws and ensure that you do not over tighten them but that the screw heads are completely flush with the grate

7.Reinstall the motor assembly

8.If there is a gap between the drum and the grate at the window gate opening, use a small amount of silicone to seal it

HOW TO SHARPEN & REPLACE THE CUTTING BLADE

1.Remove the motor assembly from the drum

2.Using an 1/8” hex head bit remove the 3 blade screws

3.Place the blade on a flat surface

4.Wrap 400 grit wet/dry sandpaper around a small wooden block, dip into water before starting

5.Sand in line with cutting edge without holding the block too far out over the edge, sand the entire blade

6.Flip the blade over and repeat, Do not roll the edge

7.Wipe the blade clean and place it on the blade hub

8.Install the 3 blade screws, BE SURE NOT TO OVERTIGHTEN TO AVOID STRIPPING

9.Ensure there is a fresh felt pad installed on the top center of the blade

  1. Check the blade for trueness by spinning the blade with your hand and checking for any wobble
  2. Reinstall the motor assembly into the drum

WET TRIMMING

AVERAGE THROUGHPUT for every Ez Trimmer should be 20,000 grams (44 LBS) per hour of fresh flower or 5,000 grams (11 LBS) per hour of dried finished flower

DRY TRIMMING

AVERAGE THROUGHPUT for every Ez Trimmer should be 15,000 grams (33 LBS) per hour of dried finished flower

HOW TO CLEAN & REPLACE PARTS

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  1. These are the items you will need to perform a proper cleaning
    1. Pressure washer
    2. Air compressor with air nozzle
    3. HD Simple Green (Purple)
    4. Denatured alcohol
    5. Paper towel or rags
    6. Hot water heater basin (for soaking)
    7. Spray bottles
    8. Small soft bristle brush
    9. Flat head screwdriver
    10. Maintenance kit with Allen keys that came with unit
  2. We will start the process by removing the chute, drum gate and lid assembly, rotate the drum upside down unlock 4 latches and remove the motor assembly
  3. With the appropriate Allen key remove the 3 screws on top of the cutting blade. Gently set the blade into the bottom of the drum, loosen the 2 set screws on the blade hub and slide the blade hub off of the motor shaft.
  4. With a flat head screwdriver remove the 3 screws on the fan blade and set the fan blade into the bottom of the drum
  5. Again, using the correct Allen key loosen the set screw on the rotor hub and sleeve the hub off the motor shaft
  6. To remove the motor mount brackets, unscrew the blade height adjustment knobs, You can also use a screwdriver to clean out the inside of the knobs
  7. Remove the motor cover and place the brackets and motor cover inside of the drum
  8. If you have an air compressor and using an air nozzle blow off any loose debris from the components
  9. Spray the bottom of the lid plate with heavy duty simple green and scrub the plate using a scotch bright pad and wipe clean, spray the bottom side of the lids with denatured alcohol and wipe clean with paper towels, flip the lid over and repeat the process, It’s important to only use denatured alcohol and paper towels when cleaning the various plastic components, as other cleaners and abrasive pads can cause damage
  10. Next, we will clean the top of the lid plate, it’s helpful to use a toothbrush to clean the hard-to-reach areas, now spray, clean and wipe dry the top side of both lids, again using only denatured alcohol and paper towels.
  11. Spray the aluminum components on the motor assembly with the heavy duty simple green and using a toothbrush scrub the various parts, wipe clean and dry, flip the unit on its side and repeat the process
  12. Spray the chute components with heavy duty simple green and wipe clean
  13. Apply the alcohol on the plastic liberally, when cleaning the areas with heavier build-up.
  14. If you don’t already have one, we highly recommend Investing in some type of pressure washer. This will enable you to quickly clean the entire unit when you’re finished trimming, as well as periodically cleaning the blade and grate during the trim session
  15. Pour heavy duty simpler green into a reservoir, one large enough to house the blade and grate for soaking, we recommend using either a plastic or metal water heater tray, fill the rest of the reservoir with water at about a 1 to 15, simple green to water ratio, place the blade, the motor mount brackets and the rotor assembly into the reservoir to soak
  16. Now spray the stand, the drum, the fan blade and the top of the rotor assembly with the heavy-duty simple green, the first items we will pressure wash is the bottom side of the drum and grate, ensure that you thoroughly remove all of the build-up, this is always easiest and quickest to do as soon as you’re done trimming and while the plant material is still fresh, clean and rinse the stand and drum
  17. Rotate the drum to the upright position and apply the heavy-duty simple green and spray the drum and grate until clean
  18. Walk the unit down to clean the underside of the stand, stand the unit back up, rotate the drum back upside down and give the entire unit a final rinse
  19. Spray clean the top and bottom side of the fan blade, spray and clean the rotor assembly, be sure to spray both sides of the fingers as well as the top and bottom, clean the motor mounting brackets, use your foot to stabilize the parts as they’re being sprayed
  20. Next, we’ll clean the cutting blade, thoroughly clean the top and bottom side of the blade, Make sure that all of the plant matter has been removed, this part of the process can also be implemented when cleaning just the blade and grate during your trim session
  21. Apply the heavy-duty simple green to the motor cover and spray clean
  22. Now we are ready to assemble the unit
  23. Start by attaching the rotor hub to the shaft on the motor control box, make sure the set screw is tight and seated properly
  24. Attach the motor cover and place the fan blade on the hub, it’s best if you install the fan blade, with the screw hole positioning relative to the motor shaft with a flat head screwdriver install and tighten the 3 screws
  25. Sleeve the cutting blade hub over the motor shaft, aligning the 2 set screws with the dimples on the shaft, make sure the set screws are properly seated and tighten firmly
  26. Place the cutting blade on the hub and install the screws, it’s very important that you don’t over tighten the cutting blade screws as they will self-tighten due to the rotation of the motor
  27. Screw on the motor mount brackets until the bolt is flush with the top of the bracket, repeat the process for all four brackets
  28. Be sure to align the junction box on the motor assembly with the x’s on the inside of the drum
  29. Reinstall the filtration bags, rotate the drum to the upright position and fasten the lid, Install the drum gate, the chute and you’re ready to go back to trimming
  30. Will clean the filtration bags with the pressure washer, start by wrapping the innermost bag around the outside of the drum, rinse the loose material off with water, spray with some heavy-duty simple green, rinse, flip the bag inside out and rinse again, we will repeat this process for all the filtration bags
  31. You’ll want to pressure wash the bags before cleaning the unit to avoid dirtying the drum and stand with the material from the bags
  32. When you’re done cleaning the bags, hang them up to dry
  33. If you have any questions regarding this process, please don’t hesitate to contact us

The filtration bags are used to catch and separate the fan leaves and stem from the sugar leaf and keif. The leaf is pulled down through the grate and through the 4 filtration bags by the fan on the main motor. Because proper airflow is critical in this process, IT IS  EXTREMELY IMPORTANT TO KEEP THE BAGS AND MOTOR COVER CLEAN. The following are tips and tricks for using and maintaining the filtration bags and motor cover:

FILTRATION BAGS

  1. When installing the filtration bags be sure to install the #1 bag (large openings) first, the bags should sit directly above the link lock latches and around the base of the drum
  2. Install bags 2, 3 then 4 in the same manner
  3. Install the filtration bags with the hem side out (inside out), this inhibits build-up in the hem and makes them easier to clean
  4. Empty the filtration bags often while trimming and prior to the first bag being overfilled
  5. To clean and empty the filtration bags during the trimming process
    1. place a container below the bags
    2. remove the bags from the trimmer
    3. empty one by one, starting with bag #1, into a separate container,
    4. Using your hands, rub the material together to quickly clean
  6. To clean the filtration bags and motor cover after trimming:
    1. Using a 50-gallon drum, garbage can or the trimmer drum, pull the filtration bag around the drum until it conforms around it
    2. Spray the filtration bag with Denatured alcohol or heavy duty simple green and spray clean using a pressure washer or high-pressure hose
    3. Inside out the bag and repeat the cleaning process

Note: You can optionally take the bags to the laundromat to clean, but If doing so, be sure the bags are free of loose debris and do not run the wash and dry cycles on HOT

MOTOR COVER

  1. To remove the motor cover, uninstall the cutting blade and fan blade
  2. Clean the motor cover by soaking and spraying clean
  3. CLEAN THE MOTOR COVER OFTEN TO AVOID DAMAGING THE MOTOR
  4. Reinstall the motor cover hem side out (inside out), be sure that it is properly seated around the base of the motor
  1. Unplug the power chord from power source
  2. Unplug the 4 pin wire harness from the motor junction box
  3. Remove the filtration bags
  4. Ensure all 6 lid latches are fastened
  5. Loosen the drum knobs, rotate the drum upside down and tighten the drum knobs
  6. Unlatch the 4 link lock latches holding the motor assembly
  7. Grabbing the motor plate pull up and wiggle the motor assembly out of the drum
  8. If removal is difficult tap each motor bracket from underneath to free it from the drum, prior to grabbing the motor plate
  9. Once the motor assembly is free, place it blade side up with Adjustment knobs down on a flat surface
  10. You can now service the motor assembly components
  11. To reinstall the motor assembly, align the junction box on the motor arm with the x’s on the inside of the drum and grabbing the motor by the motor plate lower the assembly into the drum
  12. Be sure to align the 4 adjustment brackets with the bracket buttons on the inside of the drum
  13. Latch the 4 link lock latches ensuring they are locked and that the adjustment brackets are seated tightly to the bottom of the drum
  14. Occasionally oil and inspect the link lock latches, the blade adjustment knobs and the adjustment brackets
  15.  
  1. Remove the motor assembly from the drum
  2. Using an 1/8” hex head bit remove the 3 blade screws
  3. Place the blade on a flat surface
  4. Wrap 400 grit wet/dry sandpaper around a small wooden block, dip into water before starting
  5. Sand in line with cutting edge without holding the block too far out over the edge, sand the entire blade
  6. Flip the blade over and repeat, Do not roll the edge
  7. Wipe the blade clean and place it on the blade hub
  8. Install the 3 blade screws, BE SURE NOT TO OVERTIGHTEN TO AVOID STRIPPING
  9. Ensure there is a fresh felt pad installed on the top center of the blade
  10. Check the blade for trueness by spinning the blade with your hand and checking for any wobble
  11. Reinstall the motor assembly into the drum
  1. Remove the motor assembly from the drum
  2. With the drum in the upside-down position, unscrew the grate screws
  3. Place one hand through the drum gate opening, sandwich the grate with both hands and push the grate up at an angle
  4. Place the new grate down in the same manner you removed it
  5. Be sure that the label of the gate – “Wet grate or Dry grate” is positioned inside the gate window opening and that all screw holes are positioned over the rubber
  6. Reinstall the grate screws and ensure that you do not over tighten them but that the screw heads are completely flush with the grate
  7. Reinstall the motor assembly
  8. If there is a gap between the drum and the grate at the window gate opening, use a small amount of silicone to seal it
  1. Ensure the drum knobs are tight
  2. Unlatch the front 4 lid draw latches – keep the back 2 latched
  3. Rotate the brush arms until the cotter pin tab on the brush plate is facing the front of the drum
  4. Open the front outer lid and rotate the control box 90 degrees back – the lid should be stacked in a half moon position on top of the drum
  5. Pull out the cotter pin, and grabbing the brush top plate, jiggle and pull the brush assembly until it is free from the motor shaft
  6. To replace brushes or fingers, loosen the set screws on the brush arm, pull the brush or fingers out, reinstall the new fingers or brush, and tighten the set screws
  7. Sleeve the brush top plate back onto the motor shaft ensuring the holes in the top plate and shaft are aligned
  8. Reinstall the cotter pin
  9. Rotate the lid and control box back down and secure the lid latches
  10. Occasionally oil the brush plate hub and motor shaft to avoid sticking
  1. Unplug the power cord from the power supply
  2. Unplug the 4-pin cable from the main motor junction box
  3. Remove the brush and finger assembly
  4. Unscrew the 2 thumb screws on either side of the control box
  5. Remove the control box
  6. Remove the control box prior to cleaning the lid

HARVESTING METHODS
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THERE ARE 3 MAIN CANNABIS AND HEMP HARVESTING METHODS

  • Wet Trimming, Hybrid Trimming, and Dry Trimming

THERE ARE 6 STEPS TO EACH HARVESTING METHOD

  • Defanning, Bud Bucking, Drying, Bud Trimming, Curing and Bud Sorting

THE STEPS CHANGE BASED ON THE METHOD

  • Bucking, Drying, Trimming, and Curing are the variables
  • Defanning is always first and Bud Sorting is always last

EACH METHOD HAS DIFFERENT ADVANTAGES

  • Wet Trimming Method
    • Allows for automated bucking
    • Requires less space for drying
    • Ensures consistency over time
  • Hybrid Trimming Methods
    • Allows for automated bucking
    • Require less space for drying
    • Ensures high quality buds
  • Dry Trimming Method
    • Ensures high terpene profile
    • Ensures high quality buds
    • Bucking and trimming can be done at your convenience

THE BEST METHOD IS BASED ON PRIORITIES AND RESOURCES

There are advantages and disadvantages to every harvest method. Our goal is to align you to the method that will improve product quality, compliment your resources, and increase efficiency and profitability.

  • WET TRIMMING – Shucking and trimming fresh flowers
  • HYBRID TRIMMING – Bucking fresh buds & drying the buds with the leaves prior to trimming
  • DRY TRIMMING – Drying whole plants & bucking and trimming dried buds

There are advantages and disadvantages to all 3-harvesting method. The best method is based on:

  • Priorities
  • Resources
  • Staff size
  • Harvest size
  • Equipment available
  • Harvest consistency over quality

BUCKING AND TRIMMING FRESH CANNABIS BUDS

Pros

  • Bucking can be automated effectively
  • The buds are less susceptible to damage
  • 80% less space is required for drying
  • Less time hanging and taking down plants
  • No interruptions in harvest workflow
  • Fewer steps to finished product
  • Less risk of under/over drying
  • Faster drying times
  • Consistent trim quality
  • Consistent Bud to trim ratios
  • Consistently larger bud sizes

Cons

  • Machines require frequent cleaning
  • Terpenes can degrade if not cured properly
  • Over trimming can affect flower quality
  • Trim requires drying and curing

BUCKING FRESH CANNABIS BUDS & DRYING BUDS WITH THE LEAVES BEFORE TRIMMING

Pros

  • Bucking can be automated effectively
  • The buds are less susceptible to damage
  • 80% less space is required for drying
  • Less time hanging and taking down plants
  • Trim cycle times are faster
  • Trim/sugar leaf quality is usually better
  • Easier to get higher terpene content
  • Eliminates bud flattening during drying

Cons

  • Moisture consistency is hard to obtain
  • Bud size can fluctuate
  • Trim to bud ratios can fluctuate
  • Trimmed bud quality can fluctuate

DRYING WHOLE PLANTS – BUCKING & TRIMMING DRIED CANNABIS BUDS

Pros

  • Bucking and trimming can be done at your convenience
  • More control over drying schedule
  • Trim cycle times are faster
  • Trim/sugar leaf quality is usually better
  • It’s easier to get higher terpene content
  • Eliminates bud flattening during drying and curing

Cons

  • Moisture consistency is hard to obtain
  • Rehydrating is required if using automated shuckers
  • Bud size can fluctuate
  • Trim to BUD ratios can fluctuate
  • Trimming quality can fluctuate

HARVESTING PROCESS
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REMOVING THE LARGE FAN LEAVES FROM THE STEM

Equipment: Hands or Scissors

  • We highly recommend removing the fan leaves before drying the plants, as once the leaves dry, curl and shrink, defanning becomes difficult
  • The fan leaves if not removed before drying, will create stems that will need to be removed post trimming, requiring you to handle more flowers after trimming
  • Defanning eliminates excess chlorophyll from your trim, improving concentrates
  • Defan during the flushing period and prior to harvesting
  • When possible, defan throughout the flower cycle
  • Remove all fan leaves that have exposed stem
  • The most efficient way to defan is by hand and by quickly plucking the leaves towards the base of the plant, scissors can also be used for this step.
  • Focus on the leaves that have stem exposed, especially at the base of the flower to prevent crow’s feet from occurring after trimming
  • Considerations if defanning is not an option due to resources and or crop size:
    • When dry trimming, fan leaves and their stems dry slower than sugar leaf, leaving stems that need to be removed post trimming
    • When wet trimming, the fan leaves will increase chlorophyll into concentrates, increase touch up required, and gunk up the equipment faster
    • When dry trimming or wet trimming, the first filtration and collection bag on the Ez Trimmer will capture a lot of the fan leaves and separate them from the rest of your trim

NOTE:  Bucking should occur immediately after harvesting the plants and while the Buds are fresh, and the leaves are sticking out.

  • Cut and individualize branches from the stalk
  • Cut and individualize stems from the branches (leave 2-3 inches at the base of the stem when using the Bud Bucker)
  • Using the Bud Bucker, hands, or scissors, remove and individualize all Buds from the stem
  • Leave 1/8” of stem at buds base after bucking
  • When bucking wet buds, be sure to buck and trim immediately after harvesting, do not allow the harvested plants to sit for more than a few hours before bucking and trimming, doing so can cause the leaves to curl in, and buds to squish, effecting trim quality
  • Take the time on this step to ensure the buds are 100% individualized, with no more than  1/8” of stem, and free of any fan leaves
  • Average throughput for every Bud Bucker with a single operator should be 20,000 grams (44 LBS) per hour of fresh flower or 5,000 grams (11 LBS) per hour of dried finished flower
  • With 2 operators at a single Bud Bucker throughput is 20 LBS per hour of dried finished flower

REMOVING AND INDIVIDUALIZING THE BUDS FROM THE STEM

Equipment: Bud Bucker, Hands, or Scissors

NOTE:  Bucking should occur after Drying is complete. We recommend bucking the plants when partially dried to 50-60% RH, then continue drying and curing the bucked buds prior to trimming. If bucking and trimming on the same day, and prior to curing, dry the plants to 30-40% RH, run the Bud Bucker on a very slow speed and expect a small amount of breakdown to your top colas. If plants have become too dry to safely use the Bud Bucker, rehydrate the plants to a level where breakdown is not an issue.

  • Cut and individualize branches from the stalk
  • Cut and individualize stems from the branches (leave 2-3 inches at the base of the stem when using the Bud Bucker)
  • Using scissors or The Bud Bucker when possible, remove and individualize all buds from the stem
  • Leave 1/8” of stem at the buds base after bucking
  • When bucking dried buds with the Bud Bucker, be sure the buds are not over dried, and the feed rate is set to 20 or lower
  • Take the time on this step to ensure the buds are 100% individualized, with no more than  1/8” of stem, and free of any fan leaves
  • Rehydrate the plants in order to implement the Bud Bucker or automated bucking when plants are completely/over dried
  • Average throughput for every Bud Bucker with a single operator should be 2,700 grams (6 LBS) per hour of dried finished buds
  • With 2 operators at a single Bud Bucker throughput is 10 LBS per hour of dried finished buds
  • Bucking dried plants requires the machines be run slower to avoid damaging the buds

REMOVING MOISTURE FROM THE CANNABIS PLANT & BUDS

Equipment: Humidity controlled environment with airflow

NOTE:  Drying should occur immediately after trimming the buds when wet trimming and immediately after bucking the buds when hybrid trimming. Ensure you have proper airflow, ambient temperature, and humidity levels in the room

  • Drying and curing to proper RH levels is the most important part of the harvesting process, and will ensure great smell and taste if done properly, even when trimming wet
  • Place the freshly bucked or trimmed buds on drying racks for 5-7 days in a climate-controlled room with plenty of airflow, and until the product and room homogenize to 50-60% RH
  • We recommend using 4’x8’x ¼” mesh for drying the buds. It allows for more airflow and decreases flattening
  • Rotate the product 2-3 times a day for the first 2 days to avoid flattening
  • Dry as slow as possible, preferably tapering the humidity down to 50% over 5-7 days
  • Circulate the air, pull in fresh air periodically, and check the product daily
  • Drying is complete when the outside of the buds are crispy, the inside is still spongy, and the stems are more yellow than green
  • Dry the trimmed leaf from the collection bags, after wet trimming, in the same manner
  • HYBRID TRIMMING  =  DRYING FRESH BUCKED UNTRIMMED BUDS
  • WET TRIMMING  =  DRYING FRESH BUCKED AND TRIMMED BUDS

REMOVING MOISTURE FROM THE PLANT & CANNABIS BUDS

Equipment: Humidity controlled environment with airflow

NOTE:  Drying should occur immediately after harvesting the plants

  • We recommend bucking when the plants are partially dried to 50-60% RH, then continue drying and curing the bucked buds prior to trimming.
  • Remove the fan leaves 1-2 days before harvesting your plants and before trimming
  • Hang dry the plants, or individual stems, in a humidity-controlled environment for 5-7 Days, or until the plants and room homogenize to an ambient level of 50 – 60% RH
  • Circulate the air constantly, pull in fresh air periodically, and check the product daily
  • Drying is complete when the stems bend to 90 degrees before snapping, the outside of the buds are slightly crispy, the inside of the buds are spongy, and the stems are more yellow than green
  • Do not completely dry the plants if using automated bucking machines, Dry to 50-60% humidity
  • Over-drying the buds at this point will cause the buds to occasionally break apart when either bucking or trimming
  • Rehydrate the plants in order to implement the Bud Bucker or automated bucking when plants are over dry
  • If you need to buck and trim on the same day, and prior to curing, dry the plants to 30-40% RH, as opposed to 50-60% RH, run the Bud Bucker on a very slow speed and expect a small amount of breakdown to your top colas
  • DRY TRIMMING  =  DRYING WHOLE PLANTS OR BRANCHES

TRIMMIG CANNABIS LEAVES FROM THE BUDS

EQUIPMENT: Bud TRIMMER, WANDER TRIMMER, OR SCISSORS

NOTE: Wet trimming should occur immediately after the buds have been bucked, and while the buds are fresh, and the leaves are sticking out.

  • Proper preparation is key to quality trimming, individualize all buds, remove all fan leaves and keep no more than an 1/8” to 1/4 “of stem at the base of the buds
  • There is a balance of quality and speed for every strain, some strains require zero touch up, while others need some, find the optimal trimming cycle time and touch up required that creates the best quality and efficiency
  • Dialing in the blade to its closest point is crucial to getting a tight quality trim
  • Having extra blades, grates and filtration bags can provide a quick swap out solution for maintaining a clean unit
  • Multiple Bud Trimmers provide advantages to a single larger trimmer:
    • 1 person can easily operate 4 Bud Trimmers
    • Redundancy
    • Trim multiple strains simultaneously
    • Adjust the trimming dynamics as needed for different strains and moisture levels
  • Batch sizes should be 400 – 600 grams of fresh flower, and batch times should be 1-2 minutes
  • Average throughput for every Bud Trimmer should be 20,000 grams (44 LBS) per hour of fresh buds or 5,000 grams (11 LBS) per hour of dried finished buds
  • For clients that prefer hand trimming and hang drying or smaller operations that don’t need the capacity of the Bud Trimmer we offer the Wander Trimmer for fast and efficient trimming of your wet product.

TRIMMING CANNABIS  LEAVES FROM THE Buds

EQUIPMENT: BUD TRIMMER OR SCISSORS

Note: Typically, the product is ready to trim when the plants and the room have homogenized to an ambient RH of 30-40%.

  • Proper preparation is key to quality trimming, individualize all buds, remove all fan leaves and keep no more than an 1/8” to 1/4 “of stem at the base of the buds
  • The most important aspect of dry trimming is moisture level in the buds. Too much and it won’t trim, too little and the buds will become fragile
  • Dry trimming cannabis and hemp buds is done through friction, not cutting
  • We recommend checking for dryness by disturbing one of the outer leaves, if it bends it is not dry enough. The leaves need to snap when disturbed.
  • It is crucial that the product is dried and prepped properly prior to trimming, this means, all the buds have been individualized, and that the outer leaves snap, and do not bend at all when disturbed
  • Remove the cutting blade when dry trimming to avoid mincing the trim too small
  • Batch sizes should be 300 – 400 grams of dried buds, and batch times should be 30 sec to       1 minute
  • Average throughput for every Bud Trimmer should be 15,000 grams (33 LBS) per hour of dried finished buds

SEAL, STORE AND AGE CANNABIS AND HEMP BUDS FOR STRONG TERPINE PROFILE

EQUIPMENT: SEALED CONTAINERS

Note: This process is the same for all 3 harvest methods

  • Drying and curing properly is the most important part of the harvesting process
  • Curing will ensure great smell and taste if done properly, even when trimming wet
  • Curing is not something easily scalable, ratios of air to product is crucial for oxidization and absorption of terpenes
  • Regardless of the container you use, or room size, the ratio of product to air space should be roughly 75% product, to 25% air
  • Place properly dried and trimmed product into appropriate sealed containers
  • Ideal container humidity should start at roughly 40-50%RH and taper down to 30 – 40%RH over the curing process
  • Inspect the product daily, ensure proper moisture level through touch, and cure completion through smell
  • Aerate or burp the containers daily by opening the sealed containers, and allowing the product to breath as needed
  • Be sure to rotate, or mix the product every 24 hours
  • Cure the trimmed leaf from the collection bags in the same manner when wet trimming
  • Ideally cure for no less than 5 days

SEPARATE CANNABIS AND HEMP BUDS FROM SHAKE, POPCORN, SMALL, MEDIUM AND LARGE BUDS

EQUIPMENT: BUD SORTER

NOTE: This process is the same for all 3 harvest methods

  • The Bud Sorter lets you accurately, efficiently, and safely sort your buds into shake, popcorn, small, medium, and large buds
  • The Bud Sorter is typically used as a quality control station
  • Sort the buds prior to quality control and touching up, this will eliminate the shake and popcorn from the process
  • Brush product back and forth and down the grates until all product has fallen into the appropriate container
  • The Bud Sorter is intended to be utilized right before packaging
  • The Bud Sorter will increase your efficiency by:
    • Separating similar sized and weighted buds for packaging
    • Eliminate the handling and trimming of popcorn and shake
    • Separate shake for pre-rolls
    • Separate popcorn for wholesale
    • Provide a dedicated QC Station
  • Batch sizes should be 400 – 600 grams of fresh buds, and batch times should be 30 sec. – 1 minutes
  • Average throughput for every Bud Sorter should be 40,000 grams (88 LBS) per hour of dried finished buds

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