A high quality mixer is one of the key elements in the production of consistent, high quality products. The ever popular planetary mixer, with its interchangeable mixing arms and variety of sizes, is hard to beat in terms of versatility. For some intermediate to large wholesale bakeries the horizontal mixer is the mixer of preference. However, for yeasted products like bagels, Artisian breads and pizza doughs it's hard to overlook the benefits that a Spiral Mixer has to offer.

Spiral Arm Dough Mixers

Long used in Europe, Spiral Arm Mixers began making inroads into American Artisan bakeries in the 1960’s - although they did meet with some initial resistance. In the past 50 years, however, the popularity of Spiral Mixers has grown tremendously. Utilizing a fixed position spiral mixing arm with rotating bowl Spiral Mixers are known for both flexibility and minimizing dough punishment. Strong enough for bagels and gentle enough for ciabatta and French dough, Spiral Mixers are a popular choice for a wide array of bakeries - from retail bagel shops to Artisan bread bakeries, large commercial bread plants and everything in between. Overall, Spiral Mixers offer several advantages to the discerning baker:

DOUGH QUALITY

Mixer_with_doughThe spiral mixing arm, center breaker bar and rotating bowl work in unison to move the dough in and out of the mixing zone. This results in a much more gentle blending action than a planetary or horizontal design. It also creates a much lower friction factor minimizing the amount of heat generated by the dough rubbing against the bowl. As a result the dough can be fully developed more quickly, up to 40% faster in some cases, before it reaches critical temperature.

FLEXIBLITY

Removable_BowlMixer_openSpiral Mixers are available in a wide range of sizes and configurations. The most popular stationary models are available in dough capacities from 50-1000 lbs or more. Removable Bowl and Tiltover Spiral Mixer designs allow for a variety of discharge options - onto tables, into dough troughs as well as into elevated hoppers. Additionally, Spiral Mixers have the ability to mix doughs that are much smaller than the rated capacity of the machine. For example, a spiral rated at 660 lbs of dough can be used to mix as little as 100 lbs or less. This isn't possible in many equivalent counterparts.

LABOR SAVINGS

Two speed operation and dual programmable timers gives the operator complete control over the mixing process. Once the timers are set, the operator needs only to press a button to start the program which will automatically shift the mixer speed and then stop mixing at the predetermined times. This precision allows for consistent and accurate mixing from batch to batch. Since programming is a easy as "set it and forget it", the operator is free to turn his attention to other duties.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

The Spiral Mixer's lower friction factor also equates to a lower overall electrical resistance. This lower resistance, coupled with an efficient distribution of energy between the driving motor and spiral mixing arm, allows the Spiral Mixer to consume much less energy than a comparable horizontal unit.

COST

A Tiltover or Removable Bowl Spiral Mixer can cost as little as a third of a comparably sized horizontal mixer, but the cost benefits don't stop there. As with any piece of equipment, a quality-made Spiral Mixer will be durable and reliable giving you years of maintenance free operation.

EMP_StationaryBowl_MixerWith all of the benefits that they offer, it's easy to see why Spiral Mixer popularity has grown so tremendously in the industry. While they may not be the optimal choice for all products, Spiral Mixers are ideal for Artisan breads, bagels, pizza and other quality bread products.

If you still have questions as to whether or not a Spiral Arm Dough Mixer is right for your needs, give us a call! Empire Bakery Equipment has over 35 years of experience with Spiral Arm Mixers for all applications. We'll be happy to help find the perfect fit for your mixing needs. After all, great baking starts with a great mixer!