How to Purchase the Best Mixer for your Operation

So you need a new mixer and you are not sure where to start. You know that purchasing the best mixer for your operation is imperative so you don't end up having more problems and spending more money in the long run. Follow these simple rules to find the right mixer for your operation.

First, make a list of all the things you use the mixer for. Things you need to consider are:

• What is the largest batch size and the recipe that will be made?
• Will you be mixing dough?
• How much floor or counter space do you have available for the mixer?
• Do you have the proper electrical connections available?
• What other functions are you performing with the mixer, for instance cheese grating, vegetable slicing, and meat grinding?

Why is the batch size and recipe important? It is all about making sure the mixer is able to handle everything you want to mix. If you undersize the mixer, you will overload the mixer, damaging the transmission and motor.

If you are mixing dough, understand absorption ratio. To calculate the absorption ratio, divide the weight of the water by the weight of the flour. 

For instance, if your recipe calls for 

• 2 gallons of water and 32 lbs. of flour, you would calculate 2 gallons X 8.33 lbs/gallon = 16.66 lbs. of water. 
• 16.66 divided by 32 lbs. of water = 52% absorption ratio. 

This is important because dough with a lower AR is tougher and requires more power to mix. Once this is calculated, use the Globe Mixer Capacity Chart to properly size the mixer for your application.

Another important piece of information that is needed is space limitations. Just because you have used a 30 qt. mixer before, does not mean that a new 30 qt. mixer will fit in the same space. Some new mixer designs require 50% more space due to swing out bowls. This design limits your floor or counter space dramatically. Take care to verify dimensions prior to purchasing a unit.

Checking the available electrical voltage is a must if you're purchasing anything larger than a 20 qt. mixer. Generally, 20 quart (or less) mixers will work on a standard 115v plug. Larger than that, special plug and voltage configurations need o be considered. You should also verify the amperage capacity prior to purchasing your mixer.

Most mixers come with an attachment hub, which can greatly increase the versatility and productivity of the mixer. Attachments available include meat grinders, vegetable slicing, cheese grating and meat tenderizing. Make sure to be aware of your hub size before buying accessories since there are different sizes that may be on your mixer. If you decide to utilize the attachment hub with accessories, remember that you cannot run the attachment hub while mixing. This will increase the demand on the motor and transmission and may result in a failure. Other add-on items include bowls trucks, mixer tables and bowl reduction kits.

It is highly recommended that you ask your salesperson about having the mixer professionally installed. Mixers are heavy and bulky. If the mixer falls, serious damage can occur that is not covered under a manufacturer's warranty. By paying for professional installation, you can feel confident that your mixer will operate at its optimum capacity.

You can bypass potential pitfalls by knowing a few basic items prior to making your purchasing decision. The result will be a pleasant buying experience and a trouble-free operation for years to come.

Pictured: Globe's 5 quart mixer (above) will easily fit on a countertop, while the 60 quart mixer, below, is a floor model.