Sunmix Mixer Use & Maintenance

Sunmix Spiral Dough Mixers

Using Your Sunmix Mixer – Practical Mixing Guidance

Sunmix spiral dough mixers are designed to mix efficiently and consistently without the need for special ingredient loading sequences that are often required with cheaper machines.

Unlike lower-quality mixers, there is no need to add ingredients in a specific order. Simply add all ingredients to the bowl, set the mixer running, and it will pick up all the flour and mix thoroughly, leaving you with smooth dough and a clean bowl.

If you are used to budget mixers, you may be accustomed to compensating for poor pickup or uneven mixing by altering ingredient order. This is not necessary with Sunmix.

For most doughs, add all ingredients to the bowl. It is generally good practice to hold back the salt until the later stages of mixing.

Typically, take the dough straight up to 60 percent hydration at the start. The majority of Sunmix mixers sold are rated for 60 percent hydration and above. If you are using one of our 50 percent hydration bakery mixers, you can initially mix to 50 percent, however it is still often beneficial to start closer to 60 percent where possible.

Set the mixer running on a slow speed, around 100 RPM, or Speed 1 on Classic models (105 RPM). Allow the ingredients to mix until the dough comes together into a single mass and begins to form a smooth, rounded "pumpkin" shape.

At this stage, you have two options:

  • If finishing at this hydration, simply increase the speed slightly and complete the mix, then remove the dough from the bowl.
  • If increasing hydration into the 70 to 80 percent range, ensure you are using strong flour with good gluten potential.

When increasing hydration, add water gradually in small splashes, typically over seven or eight stages. After each addition, allow the dough to fully absorb the water and return to a single mass before adding more.

Add the salt during the final one or two water additions, then finish the mix.

The dough is ready when it feels strong, elastic, and twangy, and begins to pop or crackle slightly. You may also use the windowpane test if desired.

Once complete, remove the dough. You should be left with a bowl that is approximately 95 percent clean, which can be wiped out in one or two minutes using a damp microfiber cloth.

Wipe the exterior of the machine using a damp microfiber cloth only. Do not use excessive water or a soaking wet cloth. Avoid splashing water around the feet, base, or underneath the machine.

Occasional light use of a mild degreaser is acceptable if required. This is all the machine needs. Regular gentle cleaning will significantly extend the life of the paint finish and components.

Sunmix Spiral Mixer Maintenance & Inspection

Routine inspection and basic maintenance will keep your Sunmix mixer running smoothly and extend its working life. The guidance below applies to both small and large Sunmix machines.

Maintenance – Small Machines

Models: Small Line, Easy Line, Evo Line
Frequency: Every 6 months

  • Remove the top lid, rear panel, and bottom panel.
  • Inspect all moving parts including belts, chains, pulleys, and sprockets.
  • Pay particular attention to the condition of the drive belt teeth.
  • Belts should be taut, not overtight.
  • Chains should be taut, not tight.
  • Replace any worn, cracked, frayed, or damaged belts or chains immediately.
  • Before and after use, check all bolts and fixings are present and secure.

Maintenance – Larger Machines

Models: Including Top, Smart, Classic, Queen
Frequency: Once per year under 1,500 pizzas per week. Twice per year over 1,500 pizzas per week.

  • Inspect the main drive shaft running the full length of the machine.
  • Check both drive shaft bearings:
    • Top bearing with grease nipple
    • Bottom bearing with grease nipple
  • Grease bearings periodically using a standard grease gun. This is typically user-serviceable.
  • Remove panels to inspect belts and chains.
  • Replace any belts showing signs of wear or deterioration.
  • Before and after use, check all bolts and fixings are present and secure.

Support & Servicing

If you notice any unusual noises, have the machine inspected as soon as possible. Early attention can prevent more serious and costly issues.

If you would prefer not to carry out these checks yourself:

  • We can arrange an engineer visit where available.
  • You can return the machine to us for a full inspection and service.
  • Small machines are typically returned to us for maintenance work.

Contact us to arrange a service or return. Regular maintenance reduces downtime and helps avoid costly repairs.

Important: If you carry out any work beyond inspection yourself, ensure the machine is over one year old and outside of warranty. Carrying out maintenance work during the warranty period may void your warranty.

Questions or parts required?
Call us or email via the contact page.