Manual dough ball

Types of Manual Dough Balls

Manual dough balls are machines that operate without electricity and provide a means of portioning dough into smaller pieces to form balls. These machines are usually constructed out of stainless steel and have hand-operated levers to press the dough.

• Hump conveyor and divider

  This type of manual dough dividing machine uses gravity to divide dough for shaping purposes. The machine has a conveyor that is slanted slightly downwards, which forms a hump. The dough is placed on top of the hump where gravity and the slant cause it to divide into smaller portions as it moves down the conveyor. The smaller portions are then pressed into balls using the manual lever on the machine.

• Lever-operated drop-divider

  This machine uses the pulling motion of levers to divide the dough. The divided portions fall onto another surface and are then pressed into balls using the manual lever that presses the dough into the shape of a ball.

• Paddle divisors

  Manual paddle divisor presses down on the dough to make divisions. They have paddles attached to a rotating axle. As the axle rotates, the paddles press down on the dough, which creates divisions.

Specifications and maintenance of manual dough balls

Manual dough divider machines have a variety of specifications, such as capacity. Many machines can produce about 1,000 to 1,500 pieces of dough per hour. The capacity varies, depending on the exact machine model. Another specification is the cutting system. Some use blade cutters, while others use lipped cutters. Then, there is the pressure system in a machine that determines how big the dough pieces are going to be. Machines with high-pressure systems can produce smaller dough balls, which are ideal for pizza.

Manual dough divider machines with automatic and semi-automatic modes are available. Automatic machines have a motor and are more efficient and convenient. On the other hand, manual machines are less expensive and require physical manpower to operate. Dimensions and weights vary from one manufacturer to another. An average machine weighs around 400 lbs (181.43 kgs) and has dimensions of about 29 x 34 x 39 inches.

To keep a manual dough ball machine in good condition and performing optimally, it is crucial to clean it on a regular basis. Many manufacturers provide detailed maintenance instructions. Before cleaning, they advise using a scrapper to remove all small bits of dough from all sector and panels. Using warm water and a mild detergent, operators can now wash all surfaces and removable components like trays and guards. Wipe all parts with a dry cloth afterwards. Getting to know the machine and its parts is crucial for the proper maintenance. Users should take time and carefully study the machine. Only use those sanitizing products that are approved for food service equipment. In case of damage, consult an expert for repair instead of attempting DIY.

Usage scenarios of manual dough balls

The manual dough divider has various usage scenarios. It is not limited to bakeries and pizzerias. Several food businesses use the machine to make consistent dough balls for different products.

Pastry shops use the machine to make consistent dough balls for pastries and desserts. The uniformity ensures the shop maintains quality products that satisfy customers. Conversely, restaurants use the divider to create dough balls for their bread, pizza, and burger buns.

Food warehouses also make use of the machines. The warehouses bake and supply products to retailers, cafes, and supermarkets. Using the manual dough divider ensures the warehouse achieves the required volume and size for all its dough products.

Sandwich shops can benefit from a manual dough divider, especially one that has adjustable settings for different types of dough. The machine can help the shop produce consistent sandwich bread, rolls, and other dough-based products, improving efficiency and maintaining quality.

Event catering services can use the machines when tasked with making pizza for guests or large portions of dough-based snacks. The machine helps to segregate the dough quickly and uniformly, ensuring all the products are the same size and will bake evenly.

Ultimately, any food business that uses the manual dough divider improves efficiency, consistency, and productivity. Customers will appreciate the uniformity more so when it comes to pizza and other dough products. The machines come in handy, especially when preparing big batches.

How to choose manual dough balls

Considering the following factors related to the business when choosing a manual dough ball machine:

• Production Capacity:

  Refer to the volume capacity and external dimensions the machine provides. Make sure the machine can produce enough dough balls at one time to meet the demand. For example, if the machine can ball up 3000-4000 dough balls with one batch and the business operates 250 days a year, it will be able to handle a production capacity of 800,000 to 1,000,000 dough balls a year.

• Food Safety Requirements:

  Choose a machine built with food-graded materials that meet sanitation standards. Make sure it is easy to clean and sterilize, hence helping to meet food safety regulations and prevent contamination.

• Cost and Budget:

  Consider both the initial purchase cost and the long-term operating costs, such as energy consumption and maintenance expenses. Choose a machine that balances cost and performance and meets the business's budget.

• Energy Efficiency:

  Select a machine with high energy efficiency to minimize energy consumption and operating costs. For example, a machine with an efficient motor and reasonable power consumption.

• Ease of Operation and Maintenance:

  Choose machines with easy-to-operate designs and clear maintenance instructions, which will make it a lot easier for staff to operate and reduce training time.

• Warranty and After-Sales Service:

  Select a reliable manufacturer who provides a warranty and timely after-sales service. This ensures timely repair and support in case of equipment failure or problems.

• User Reviews and Recommendations:

  Research user reviews and recommendations for specific manual dough ball machines to understand other businesses' experiences and satisfaction levels. For example, consider well-known brands like Teston or Laudi.

FAQ

Q1: What is the difference between a manual and automatic dough ball flattener?

A1: While both the manual and automatic dough ball flatteners perform the same functions, they differ in operation. The automatic model uses electricity, while the manual model relies on human effort.

Q2: How are manual dough balls formed?

A2: To form manual dough balls, first, create a rough shape of the dough using the fingers. Then, let it rest for some minutes before pressing it with the palm into a round. Finally, use a roller to create the desired thickness.

Q3: Can someone mass produce dough balls using manual methods?

A3: Unfortunately, it is quite challenging to mass produce using manual methods. This is because the manual method is time-consuming and may not produce consistent results.

Q4: What are some advantages of using a manual dough ball press?

A4: A manual dough ball press is easy to use and affordable. In addition, it is portable and does not require any form of technical skill to operate.