Electric food mixers are used for an infinite number of jobs including beating batters for cakes, mixing bread dough, beating eggs, and mashing and whipping potatoes.

Sizes and Attachments

Food-mixing machines  are furnished in 20-, 60-, 80-, 110-, and 140-quart sizes with the necessary attachments, paddles, and beaters  . 4-8 . The wire whip is used for eggs, cream, and lightweight mixing; the flat beater for cake batters and

Figure 4-7.-Electric mixer.

Figure 4-S.-Electric mixer attachments. mediumweight mixing; the dough hook for mixing bread dough; and the wire beater for medium-stiff dough.

One part of the machine revolves through the use of a set of transmissions and differential gears. Various shaped paddles and mixers can be attached to this revolving unit.

The lower part of the mixer contains two extended, adjustable arms. A bowl, containing the foods to be mixed, is placed on these arms and the arms are then moved up so the paddles will revolve throughout the mixture. The machines have either three or four speeds. Usually they have an attachment hub that can be used for a vegetable slicer, juicer, and meat grinder.

Operation

Before operating the machine make sure the bowl, paddles, and beaters are thoroughly clean. If necessary, wash them in hot soapy water and rinse with hot water (170F).

Place the ingredients in the bowl as specified on the AFRS recipe card. Do not fill the bowl more than half full. Place the bowl on a castered dolly when moving across the deck. Insert the bowl in the mixing machine, making sure the bowl ears are on the supporting pins and both sides are locked in place.

Select the proper attachment and place it in the machine. The L-shaped notch in the beater is to be inserted over the pin in the shaft. On the smaller models the shaft will be grooved. The attachment is inserted into these grooves and slipped into the lock. Raise the bowl to the proper height by turning the wheel or crank.

Start the motor at no load and with clutch release shift to low speed; release the clutch each time the speed is changed. The speed to be used is indicated on the recipe card and on the instructions furnished by the manufacturer.

Watch mixing times and mixing speeds carefully. Often blended ingredients revert to separate ingredients if mixed too long or at an improper speed. If, during the process of mixing, some of the batter has piled up on the sides of the bowl, stop the machine. Using a long-handled spoon or spatula, scrape down the sides of the bowl. Never put spoons, spatulas, or your hands in the bowl while the machine is in operation.

When the mixing is completed, move the control switch to the OFF position and stop the motor. Lower the bowl by the lever with which you raised it and remove the beater by turning the sleeve to the left. Remove any food left on the beater with a spatula. Then, place the bowl on the castered dolly and move it to the place of use.

Care and Cleaning

The electric mixer, beaters, whips, and bowls all require care. Beaters, paddles, and bowls should be washed immediately after each use. Use hot soapy water and rinse with hot water ( 170F). Hang beaters and paddles upside down to air dry. Clean the body of the machine after each meal. Use a damp cloth or wash with water as necessary for proper sanitation. Be sure the beater shaft is free of all dirt and food particles.

The motor and mechanical parts of the mixer should be inspected and maintained by the engineering department once a week.