Picture your perfect pizza. Do you enjoy the classics like pepperoni or sausage? Or do you have a sense of adventure, loading it up with toppings like pineapple, bacon, and jalapeno? Quality equipment is at the heart of any pizza masterpiece, and can really help your product stand out against the competition.

Pizza Display

Commercial Dough Mixers: Planetary Mixers vs. Spiral Mixers

The two most prominent types of commercial mixers are known as planetary and spiral. Both are capable of mixing pizza dough; however, they each have their unique sets of benefits that make them ideal for varying situations.

Planetary Mixers

Value Series GEM130 Planetary Mixer

Planetary mixers feature a more versatile functionality, the more traditional of the two main types of mixers, and are ideal for general applications. Planetary mixers can accommodate varying attachments and accessories, like dough hooks, flat beaters, and wire whips. Not only can they be used to mix and knead the dough, but also a variety of other products like batter, whipped cream, mashed potatoes, meatballs, and more. They get their name from the planetary attachment that orbits around the bowl; the bowl stays in place the whole time and can readily be removed to switch out attachments. Planetary mixers are referred to by the size of their bowl (i.e., 20 quarts, 60 quarts, etc.).

Given their more generalized applications, planetary mixers are the most common types of commercial mixers used in establishments.

Spiral Mixers

Primo PSM-40E Spiral Mixer

Spiral mixers have a much more specialized function compared to their planetary counterparts. They’re specifically designed to gently mix and knead dough, featuring a permanently fixed dough hook and mounted bowl that cannot be removed. During mixing, the locked-in-place bowl rotates the dough into the stationary spiral hook, gently kneading it while a breaker bar divides the dough, so only small portions at a time go through the hook. This process keeps the friction heat low and provides a more uniform mix, assisting the dough in developing a proper gluten structure while not overworking it.

Whereas planetary mixers offer much more versatility and flexibility, spiral mixers offer operators more control over the quality and quantity of their dough production output.  Instead of being referred to based on the size of the bowl, like planetary mixers, spiral mixers are generally referred to by the amount of dough that can be mixed at a given time (i.e., 130 lbs., 175 lbs., etc.).

Both spiral and planetary mixers feature multiple speed levels ideal for different tasks. In the case of spiral mixers, the multiple speeds facilitate dough development. The first speed (low) helps bring the dough together. Switched into the faster second speed, the gluten structure of the dough starts to take shape.

Vertical Cutter Mixers

Value Series GEM130 Planetary Mixer

Vertical cutter mixers, similar to food processors, are a third type of mixer most ideal for mixing batters or sauces, chopping nuts, salads, bread, or cooked meat. They feature a covered mixing bowl and a high horse-powered motor.

Read also:

Food Processors vs. Food Blenders vs. Food Choppers

Immersion Blenders

Primo PSM-40E Spiral Mixer

Immersion blenders are another mixing solution, handheld for efficient control over product consistency. Their versatility makes them ideal for blending large batches of liquids and batters, emulsifying dressings, pureeing soups, and more.

Read also: 

• Immersion vs. Traditional Blenders and Mixers

• Immersion Blender Uses in a Kitchen

Spiral or Planetary? What is the Best Mixer for Pizza Dough?

As noted, both spiral and planetary mixers feature their independent sets of benefits that make them ideal for different establishments and situations. Even in cases specific to pizza establishments, there are strong arguments in support of both styles of mixers.

Genuine pizza aficionados swear by spiral mixers based solely on the quality of dough. Again, this is due to the amount of control operators have over the production, the preservation of the gluten structure, and the more uniform mix of ingredients detailed above. However, this shouldn’t discount the unique benefits a planetary mixer provides.

You can still use a planetary mixer with a dough hook attachment to mix quality dough. In addition, you can also apply different attachments and accessories to assist in other types of pizza prep, such as slicing ingredients, shredding cheese, grinding meat, and more. Spiral mixers may be preferred for craft pizzerias in which the artisan quality is the primary selling point, but if your menu offers an assortment of food products in addition to pizzas, a planetary mixer is recommended as the time and labor savings in food prep, and the versatility of uses has a direct impact on your bottom line.

Determining What Size Mixer You’ll Need

After determining whether a spiral or planetary mixer is best for you, the next step is choosing the size. Again, the size referrals are different for both types of mixers (planetary mixers are based on the bowl size, usually in quarts; spiral mixers are based on the amount of dough that can be mixed at a given time).

Commercial mixers are built to meet high-volume demands, but the longevity of your mixer ultimately depends on how well you treat it. If you opt for a 20-quart planetary mixer, like the industry-renowned Globe SP20, a 20-quart capacity is the absolute max. Keep in mind that the mix will expand during the process, so you’ll want to make sure you have some additional room so everything mixes consistently. If you put more than the max capacity in at a single time, you risk overworking it and the motor and parts will wear quicker. Therefore, knowing your batch size is one of the most important considerations to make when purchasing a new commercial mixer.

Read also: How to Clean, Care For, and Maintain Your Commercial Mixer.

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It’s important to know whether you’ll be mixing small batches daily or larger batches less frequently. Specific to pizzas, what type of crust are you hoping to produce? Thin crust, hand, tossed, deep dish? The type of crust depends on the moisture content. This is also referred to as the absorption ratio and is calculated as a percentage by dividing the water weight by the flour weight. Let’s use the example of 50 lb. of flour mixed with three gallons of water. The water weighs 8.33 lbs. per gallon, so the water weight of this recipe is 24.99 lbs. (We’ll use 25 lbs. for simplicity). 25 divided by 50 equals 0.50, giving the dough a 50% absorption ratio and a total batch size of 75 lbs. (25 lbs. of water plus 50 lbs. of dough.)

This downloadable mixer capacity chart makes these calculations easier, outlining recommended capacities based on planetary or spiral mixers, referenced with common product uses and the necessary attachments. Additionally, Globe’s interactive mixer capacity calculator allows users to enter the product they’re mixing and the intended batch size, and it’ll recommend the best mixer for your needs.

Charts

Key Considerations for Purchasing a Planetary Mixer

As planetary mixers are the most commonly used commercial mixers, given their versatility that makes them ideal for several types of tasks, let’s look at some of the most common factors to consider when making a final purchase decision.

 

  • Controls & Timer: What type of control and timer is used, and where are they located? There are mixers with digital or mechanical timers and those with no timers at all. Some are on the front of the mixer for easy visibility, allowing operators to quickly glance at how much time is left from across the kitchen, while others are located on the side. Digital timers are often thought to be more accurate than mechanical timers, which provide more consistent batch results each time.
  • The Transmission: What type of transmission does the mixer have? Gears, belts, or electronic speed control (variable speed motor?) All three transmission types have pros and cons. Generally, the gear type of transmission is preferred when mixing dough to provide torque under a heavy load.
  • Attachment Hub: Does the mixer have an attachment hub that’ll increase versatility? Attachments greatly assist in food prep, reducing time and labor. These include, but are not limited to, adjustable slicing plates for vegetables, shredder and grater plates for cheese and lettuce, meat grinders for burgers, sausage, and meatballs.

 

What About the Mixer Bowl?

What type of bowl guard is on the mixer? Is it removable? Does it have a built-in chute to easily add ingredients like oil or seasonings during the mixing process without stopping? Bowl guards are placed around the top of the bowl and are made of either plastic or wire. This guard is used to protect the operator by preventing clothing, hands, or other foreign objects from getting into the mixer while in operation. Most mixers will require a guard to comply with OSHA regulations.

 

Does the mixer bowl include clamps to secure the bowl to the yoke? Are they spring-tensioned to securely hold the bowl in place, or does it just sit on a pin that can cause rattling during operation?

Does the bowl swing out? This requires a larger area for operation, a crucial consideration if floor space is limited.

Is the bowl lift manual or power-operated? A power lift allows the bowl to be raised or lowered easily; however, there is usually an additional cost associated with this as a secondary motor is required.

Do you need a bowl truck? These allow operators to easily maneuver the bowl around the kitchen on a dolly.

 

Drive System

There are two general types of drive system options for commercial mixers. 

  1. Belt-driven mixers tend to be less expensive to repair, should an issue arise. They come in a range of speed options that can be adjusted as the mixer is in motion. However, there’s a greater risk of the belt slipping and the overall life is much shorter than their gear-driven counterparts.
  2. Gear-driven mixers are better equipped to power through heavier ingredients. There’s no risk of slipping and therefore have a more dependable velocity than belt-driven mixers. However, though repairs aren’t as frequent with gear-driven units, they often cost more to repair should an issue present itself. They also tend to be noisier and only have two fixed speeds, sometimes resulting in more limitations to the types of products they can be used to produce. 

Speeds

Always consult the manufacturer’s Owner’s Manual prior to operating your mixer. Some perform best at a particular speed. Depending on the drive system, some mixers will allow you to change the speed while it’s in operation. Others will require you to shut it off first. 

Horsepower

The larger the mixer capacity, typically the higher the horsepower it’ll have. The heavier the ingredients you’re mixing (pizza dough is a good example here), the larger the mixer and the higher the horsepower you will want to opt for.

Commercial Mixer Attachments & Accessories

Noted as a key benefit for planetary mixers over spiral mixers, attachments, and accessories can save significant time and labor when it comes to food prep. The most common attachments for planetary mixers include:

Dough Hooks

Dough Hooks:

A necessity for mixing and kneading dough for pizzas and bread.

Flat Beaters

Flat Beaters:

A standard mixing tool for general mixing; ideal for batters, mixes, mashed potatoes, meatballs, and more.

Wire Whips

Wire Whips:

Ideal to use whenever you’re mixing anything that needs to have air mixed into it, such as whip cream, or meringue. When using a wire whip attachment for these purposes, it is recommended you switch the mixer to a high speed for best results.

Mixing Tables

Mixing Tables:

A stable surface to place your countertop
mixer on.

Pastry Knives

Pastry Knives:

Used for cutting and mixing heavy pizza dough.

Bowl Scrapers

Bowl Scrapers:

Assists in minimizing food waste by continuously scraping the side of the bowl as the agitator of the mixer turns.

Vegetable Slicer

Meat Chopper/Grinder:

This usually includes a feed pan and stomper to direct and push the meat through the chopper. Ideal for use when mixing pizza toppings, like sausage.

Vegetable Slicer

Vegetable Slicer:

Used to quickly slice fruits and vegetables.

Grater Shredder

Grater/Shredder:

Great for use in quickly shredding cheese and vegetables.

Commercial Pizza Ovens: Types and Their Uses

The choice of a commercial pizza oven depends on factors such as space, production volume, and the desired pizza style.

Deck Ovens: A classic choice for pizza making. These ovens deliver even heat distribution, producing pizzas with crispy crusts and well-cooked toppings. They are versatile and accommodate different pizza sizes, making them ideal for establishments that offer a variety of pie styles.

Conveyor Ovens: Designed for high-volume operations. They use a conveyor belt to move pizzas through the cooking chamber, ensuring uniform baking. This type of oven is perfect for fast-food outlets, as it allows for a continuous pizza-making process. Conveyor ovens are known for their efficiency and speed, making them an excellent choice for businesses catering to large crowds.

Convection Ovens: These ovens utilize fans to circulate hot air, resulting in consistent and quick cooking. While they might not mimic the traditional brick oven environment, they offer faster bake times and even heat distribution. Convection ovens are suitable for establishments with limited space and moderate production levels

Wood-Fired Ovens: These operate using hardwood or wood pellets as fuel, reaching high temperatures that quickly cook the pizzas while creating a characteristic charred crust. These ovens are favored by artisan pizzerias aiming for a rustic, traditional touch in their pies.

Brick Ovens: While often associated with wood-fired ovens, brick ovens can also be fueled by gas or electricity. Their ability to retain heat makes them suitable for baking multiple pizzas at varying temperatures.

Pizza Prep Tools: The Essentials You’ll Need

From commercial ovens to specialized pizza peels, each tool plays a vital role in transforming dough and ingredients into culinary masterpieces. Whether you’re crafting specialty pizzas or are just looking to add this to your menu, a well-curated collection of pizza-making tools is essential for achieving consistent quality and elevating the art of pizza preparation.

Prep Tables: Provides an organized and efficient workspace for kneading dough, assembling toppings, and shaping pizza bases before they enter the oven.

Dough Sheeters: Streamlines pizza prep by uniformly rolling out dough, ensuring consistent thickness and texture for perfect crusts every time.

Proofing Cabinets: Facilitates ideal fermentation conditions, allowing pizza dough to rise evenly and develop optimal flavor and texture before it’s transformed into delicious pies.

Pizza Peels: An essential tool in pizza prep, aiding in the effortless transfer of pizzas in and out of the oven while maintaining their shape and toppings intact.

Pizza Screens or Pans: Plays a crucial role in pizza prep, ensuring even heat distribution and preventing sticking while baking, resulting in perfectly cooked and crispy crusts.

Toppings Stations: Provides an organized and efficient setup for assembling a wide variety of pizza toppings, allowing for seamless customization and timely preparation of each pie.

Sauce Dispensers: Streamlines pizza prep by delivering precise amounts of sauce onto pizza bases, ensuring consistent flavor distribution and minimizing preparation time.

Cheese Grater/Shredders: Allows for the quick and efficient shredding of cheese to achieve the perfect melt and flavor distribution on pizzas.

Pizza Cutters: Enables precise and efficient slicing of pizzas into uniform portions, ensuring each slice is as tantalizing as the last.

Refrigeration Units: Maintains the freshness and safety of ingredients while providing ample storage space for toppings, dough, and other essentials.

Ingredient Bins: Offers organized and airtight storage for various toppings, sauces, and spices, ensuring easy access and maintaining ingredient freshness.

Dough Retarder/Proofers: Creates an optimal environment for dough fermentation, allowing it to rise uniformly and develop the desired texture and flavor for exceptional pizza crusts.

Exhaust Hoods: Effectively removes smoke, heat, and odors from the cooking area, maintaining a safe and comfortable kitchen environment while ensuring compliance with ventilation regulations.

Dough Rounders and Dividers: Automates the process of portioning and shaping dough, leading to consistent sizes and streamlined production of pizza bases.

Ingredient Dispensers: Offers controlled portioning of various toppings, ensuring accuracy and speed while assembling customized pizzas.

Spatulas and Ladles: Facilitates the precise application of sauce, cheese, and toppings onto pizza bases, ensuring consistent and appetizing results.

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