Shaffer Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: How much product can I mix in one batch?
A:The maximum batch size is dependent on 3 factors:
1. The volume of raw ingredients that physically fit in the bowl
2. The motor loading
3. The desired product quality
For most applications, the volume of raw ingredients that physically fit in the bowl will not be an issue. The mixing bowl can usually hold more ingredients that the drive motor can mix. The exception for this may be an application where most or all of the ingredients are hand loaded.
The motor loading will usually dictate how much a mixer can mix. If the drive motor overload protection is set properly, the mixer can mix until the motor overload device trips. At this point, the batch size should be reduced slightly so nuisance drive motor overloads are avoided.
Q: What is my minimum mixer batch size?
A:Our recommended minimum capacity is 60% of the total mixer capacity; however, the absolute minimum is 50%.
Q: Do I need to supply the mixer electrical panel with another circuit breaker? What size should it be?
A:We recommend that you install a dedicated circuit breaker to feed your mixer’s electrical panel. You should consult a qualified electrician to ensure all local codes are met, but in general you should install a circuit breaker that is equal to the one in the mixer's electrical panel. See your Shaffer Mixer Installation Manual for circuit breaker and feed wire size recommendations.
Q: Are the electrical components on my Shaffer mixer rated NEMA 4X? What about the main control enclosure?
A:Yes, all electrical components on a Shaffer mixer are rated NEMA 4X, including the operator control panel. While the NEMA 4X rating provides a degree of protection against splashing and hose-directed water, we suggest not using hose-directed cleaning of the operator control panel. Wiping the operator control panel with a wet cloth should suffice. If hose-directed wash down is necessary, power should be disconnected from the mixer before cleaning. The operator control panel uses a sanitary washdown enclosure that minimizes the standing and pooling of water that could harbor bacteria.
Shaffer’s standard main electrical enclosure is rated NEMA 4, which gives your mixer the same protection for dirt and water as a NEMA 4X only in an economical painted enclosure. A NEMA 4X main control enclosure can be ordered as on option.
Q: Where can I find the model and serial number on my Shaffer equipment?
A:To find the model and serial number of your Shaffer equipment you can look in the equipment manual. This information is on the title page. There are also plates on the equipment with this information. Look in one of the following places:
Mixers – The mixer frame support on the RH side as viewed from the front, or, on our Open Frame Mixers, it is located on the RH rear vertical frame tube.
Dough Chunker – On the plate that supports the cutter drive
Dough Conveyors – Typically on the RH side of the frame when following the flow of dough
Q: What services can be provided by Shaffer Service Technicians?
A:All Shaffer service technicians have extensive backgrounds in many makes and models of mixers. With their factory training and field experience, there are many areas in which they could help your facility. Some areas of assistance that they can provide include:
• Mixer evaluations
• Preventative maintenance
• Mixer repairs
• Emergency service
• Maintenance staff training
• Sanitation training
• Operator training
• Spare parts assessment