# Trento Meat Slicers and Cheese Graters: Use and Care

> How to set up, slice, sharpen, clean and troubleshoot Trento meat slicers and cheese graters, from the Omcan manuals and videos for each series.

How-to by Norpex. Published 2026-10-15, updated 2026-10-15.
Canonical: https://norpex.ca/guides/trento-meat-slicers-and-cheese-graters

![Flywheel manual meat slicer with a red frame](https://norpex.ca/m/5e/62/5e62ca1485aa72d8856a7e187efa3b8657b773bb9a060cd033d9d98a679c0206.jpg)

Pictured: [Trento 10″ Diameter Blade Volano Manual Slicer with Standard Flywheel and Stainless Steel Tray](https://norpex.ca/product/trento-10-diameter-blade-volano-manual-slicer-with-standard-flywheel-and-stainless-steel-tray)

This guide explains how to safely operate, clean, and maintain your Trento meat slicer or cheese grater, drawing directly from the manufacturer's manuals and instructional videos. Follow these steps to keep your equipment running reliably and producing consistent results.

## Key takeaways

- Match your model to the correct manual: belt-driven gravity slicers, gear-driven automatic slicers, Volano manual slicers, and cheese graters each have specific instructions.
- Always have a licensed electrician handle the electrical connection and ensure proper grounding.
- Only slice approved products; never slice frozen food or food with bones, and no cheese on the models whose manual forbids it.
- Use the built-in sharpener for 10–15 seconds only when needed, and clean the blade with mild soap and water, never steel pads.
- Graters are made for Parmesan-type cheese and need breaks within a 20-minute run time; never bypass a safety microswitch.

## Understanding your Trento slicer or grater and its manual

Trento equipment distributed by Omcan includes several distinct series: belt-driven gravity slicers (such as models 13620, 13621, 13628), gear-driven automatic slicers (13641, 13642, 13643), Volano flywheel manual slicers (26072, 26074, 20387), and cheese graters (retro, stainless steel, and hydraulic). Each series has its own instruction manual. Omcan’s manual for gravity slicers covers items like 13620 and 13628; the gear-driven manual covers 13641 through 13643; the Volano manual covers 26072, 26074, and 20387; and separate manuals cover the cheese graters (items 21719, 48109, 11403, 11405, 39884, 45404, 47930).

Before doing anything else, locate the manual that matches your model number. The manuals contain critical safety warnings, technical specifications, and step-by-step procedures that this guide summarizes but cannot replace. For example, the gravity slicer manual lists environmental operating conditions of -5°C to 40°C and maximum 95% relative humidity. Always read the full manual before first use.

## Installation and electrical connection

Position the slicer or grater on a level, dry surface that can support the machine’s weight plus the product. For Volano slicers, the manual recommends ensuring no obstructions to the flywheel and carriage stroke. If using the optional stand, check that all feet rest firmly on the floor. The gravity slicer manual says the top must be suitably dimensioned to withstand the machine weight.

Electrical connection must be performed by a qualified, licensed electrician in accordance with local codes. The gear-driven slicer manual states that the machine comes with a grounding plug and must be plugged into a properly grounded outlet. If the receptacle is not the correct grounding type, contact an electrician. The gravity slicer manual adds that the user is responsible for verifying that the supply line, outlet, distribution panel, differential protecting breaker, and grounding are suitably dimensioned and functioning. Before connecting, confirm that the mains voltage and frequency match the data plate on the machine.

For cheese graters, the hydraulic grater manual emphasizes that all electrical work must be done by qualified technical personnel with reference to the wiring diagram. The cheese grater manual also warns that the unit cannot run continuously; it requires intermittent breaks within a 20-minute run time, with the break period longer than the run time to cool the motor.

## Slicing operation: thickness, carriage, and safety guards

Before loading any product, turn the slice thickness control knob fully clockwise to the “0” position so the gauge plate shields the blade. The gravity slicer manual instructs that you place or remove goods only when the carriage is completely pushed back and the thickness knob is at zero. For Volano slicers, the video “Volano Meat Slicer \| Slicing” demonstrates safe slicing technique: rotate the flywheel clockwise to move the carriage and spin the blade simultaneously.

Load the product onto the tray, then use the product grip handle or carriage handle to push the tray back and forth across the blade. On gear-driven models, the manual notes that the numbers on the thickness control are reference marks, not actual measurements. Adjust the knob gradually until you achieve the desired slice thickness. Volano slices are set with the graduated slice thickness knob, and the Volano specifications list a cut thickness of 0 to 2 mm (0 to 0.07 in).

All slicers have mechanical guards: a blade cover, a product tray hand protection, and a slice deflector. The gravity slicer manual lists a series of aluminium and transparent plastic guards on the carriage. Some models offer an optional safety micro-switch that prevents the motor from starting if the blade guard is removed. Never remove or bypass these guards. The manuals warn that residual cutting risks remain even with guards in place, and the gravity slicer manual says to always use scratch-proof, non-slip gloves during cleaning or maintenance.

Only slice approved products. The gravity and Volano manuals list cold cuts, boneless meat (at a temperature not below +3°C), and vegetables. They explicitly prohibit frozen or deep-frozen food, food with bones, cheese, and any non-food item. The gear-driven manual does not list cheese as prohibited, and those models carry a cheese slicing rating of High (4/4) in the specifications. If your model’s manual says no cheese, do not attempt it.

## Blade sharpening

Trento slicers come with a built-in blade sharpener. The gear-driven manual provides a detailed sharpening procedure: first, switch off the slicer and turn the thickness control to “0”. Lift the sharpener cover, disengage the pin, and rotate the sharpener assembly into the sharpening position. Turn the slicer on, then slowly rotate the lever to bring both stones into contact with the spinning blade. The manual says sharpening and trimming are done at the same time. The manual recommends 10 to 15 seconds of sharpening; longer times reduce blade life without benefit. After sharpening, return the sharpener to its horizontal position, close the cover, and wipe the slicer with a clean damp cloth to remove any grinding particles.

For Volano slicers, the video “Everything you need to know about The Volano Meat Slicer from OMCAN” highlights the built-in sharpener. The Volano manual’s maintenance section will give the exact steps; always refer to it. The grinding stone on gear-driven models can be removed for cleaning if it becomes clogged with grease. Keep the stone clean and free of grease for effective sharpening.

## Cleaning your equipment

Unplug the machine and turn the slice thickness control fully clockwise before cleaning. The gear-driven manual instructs you to turn the slice deflector for access to the back of the blade. Remove the product holder by rotating its handle counterclockwise. Wash all surfaces with a mild soap and hot water solution using a clean cloth, then rinse thoroughly with fresh water and a separate cloth. Remove the blade cover by unscrewing the hand knob, then carefully wash both sides of the blade, wiping outward from the centre. Never use steel pads or abrasive cleaners on the blade. The manual explicitly states: do not wash any slicer components in a dishwasher.

Omcan's video “Instructional Cleaning Video \| Volano Meat Slicer \| Omcan” shows how to clean a Volano slicer. Whatever the model, keep the thickness control at zero while you work near the blade and wear scratch-proof, non-slip gloves, as the gravity slicer manual requires, and dry the parts before reassembling them.

For the retro cheese graters, the manual says to run the grater with dry bread before first use to clean it, and warns that flammable, corrosive or harmful cleaning agents are dangerous. The hydraulic grater manual says to clean the machine inside and out every day after switching off its power at the disconnecting device and disconnecting the pneumatic supply: remove the upper casing, the discharge hopper, the internal hopper, the rear collecting tray and the toothed belts, clean the inner drum area, and clean food residue off every part with food-grade products. For internal descaling it advises removing the upper and lower parts and directing a jet of water into the parts that need it.

## Grating cheese: loading, guards, and capacity

Trento cheese graters are designed exclusively for hard cheeses like Parmesan, Grana Padano, and Trentingrana. The hydraulic grater manual states that the manufacturer does not guarantee correct functioning with other cheese types. Load the cheese into the hopper and use the pusher to feed it toward the grating drum. On graters fitted with a microswitch, such as the retro 21719 and 48109, the switch sits on the handle and pressure group, and lifting the handle of the grater mouth stops the grater roll immediately. Never bypass it.

Capacity varies by model. For example, the stainless steel cheese grater (item 11403) produces up to 132 lb./hr, while the retro model (48109) produces 66 lb./hr. The hydraulic grater (45404) has an hourly production rate of 200–300 kg (440–661 lb). Check your model’s spec sheet for exact figures. The video “Omcan Cheese Graters” shows the range of models and their stainless steel basins, hoppers, and iron steel drums. Always ensure the discharge area is clear and that the grated cheese falls freely into a container.

## Troubleshooting and service

Omcan's video “Instructional & Troubleshooting \| Volano Meat Slicer \| Omcan” walks through the slicing process and how to troubleshoot different slice sizes and thicknesses. For anything else, the gravity slicer manual says to stop the machine immediately if you notice anomalies, defective operation, incorrect movement or unusual noise, and to have qualified personnel look at it.

Lubrication is part of the operator's care. The gear-driven manual says the rod the product holder slides on, underneath the slicer, should be lubricated weekly with several drops of oil (never vegetable oil), and the slice thickness plate slide rod coated lightly now and then.

For extraordinary maintenance, such as replacing the sharpener wheels or the blade, the gear-driven manual says to contact the manufacturer or qualified, authorized personnel, and the manuals warn that any modification to the machine can harm the people using it. For questions about a specific model, ask Norpex.

## Videos from the maker

- [Everything you need to know about The Volano Meat Slicer from OMCAN](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xwo2XQZpP0) (Omcan)
- [Volano Meat Slicer \| Slicing](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gW3IkcpGHX0) (Omcan)
- [Instructional Cleaning Video \| Volano Meat Slicer \| Omcan](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YuAUpzEo2Sw) (Omcan)
- [Instructional & Troubleshooting \| Volano Meat Slicer \| Omcan](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NlPuG3i6ePs) (Omcan)
- [Omcan’s 13-inch Gear Driven Automatic Best Meat Slicer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7ENWTOsJVU) (Omcan)
- [Omcan Cheese Graters](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9oyY2nPTMq4) (Omcan)

## Common questions

### Can I slice cheese on my Trento slicer?

It depends on the model. The manuals for belt-driven gravity slicers and Volano manual slicers list cheese as a product that must not be sliced. Gear-driven models (13641, 13642, 13643) do not have this restriction and are rated for high cheese slicing. Always check your model’s manual and cheese slicing rating before attempting.

### How often should I sharpen the blade?

Sharpen only when you notice a decline in cutting performance. The gear-driven manual recommends a sharpening cycle of 10 to 15 seconds. Frequent or prolonged sharpening shortens blade life. Keep the sharpening stones clean and free of grease.

### What should I do if the slicer won’t start?

First, ensure the power cord is plugged into a grounded outlet and that the outlet is live. Check that all guards are properly installed and that any safety micro-switches are engaged. If the machine still does not start, refer to the troubleshooting section of your manual or the Volano troubleshooting video, and contact a qualified technician if needed.

### Can I put slicer parts in the dishwasher?

No. The gear-driven slicer manual explicitly states: “DO NOT wash any slicer components in a dishwasher.” Hand wash all removable parts with mild soap and hot water, rinse, and dry thoroughly.

### What type of cheese can I use in a Trento cheese grater?

Only hard, dry cheeses such as Parmesan, Grana Padano, or Trentingrana. The hydraulic grater manual warns that the manufacturer does not guarantee correct functioning with other cheese types.

## Related guides

- [Meat Slicer Buying Guide: Blade Size, Duty Class and Safe Cleaning](https://norpex.ca/guides/meat-slicer-buying-guide)
- [Butcher Equipment Guide: Grinders, Band Saws, Stuffers and More](https://norpex.ca/guides/butcher-equipment-guide)

## Shop the catalogue

- [Meat Slicer](https://norpex.ca/products/meat-slicer)
- [Cheese Grater](https://norpex.ca/products/cheese-grater)