Mepaco Blog

In some cases, there is a particular event that causes agitator damage such as a shovel or fork falling into a piece of processing equipment.  However, there are several other signs that determine when an agitator is failing:

• The agitator starts developing cracks in the pipe or welds.
• The agitator starts rubbing the tub side wall.

Here are some causes of agitator damage:

• The drive end motor is not shimmed properly.
• There is a bad bearing on idle side may create flexing.
• Long term issues may be caused by a tool dropping into the tub.
• The product is being over chilled. It is wrapping over paddles, the temperature probes are not functional, and the CO2 or Nitro is turned off.

Agitators are part of Mixers, Mixer-Cookers, and ThermaBlend Cookers.  This equipment is the most important part of the processing line and must be maintained for maximum uptime.  Other equipment, such as Metering Screws with Hoppers have leveling ribbons that may also need to be included in the list for agitator maintenance.

Currently, there is a 3-to-6-month lead time for a new agitator.  In some cases, agitator repairs can be made at the customer site.  Mepaco Services may be able to use a sleeve or secure welds to get the machine back up and running.  Sometimes, it is possible to make repairs for temporary production while the new agitator is put on order.

Contact Parts and Service at 920-356-9900 for more information.