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Post by ezekiel on Aug 8, 2009 15:59:33 GMT -5
I'm planning on going commercial sometime in the next year. So, I'm trying to decide between one of the ECGC-60 Grindeurs and a 45kg Universal machine. Obviously, the universal is bigger. But, ignoring the size difference, what do you think about the two?
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Post by Alchemist on Aug 8, 2009 22:59:29 GMT -5
I have some information about the ECGC's (and will have them available very soon) but don't know about the Universal. Links?
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Post by holycacao on Aug 9, 2009 0:18:42 GMT -5
John, I believe ezekiel is refering to a lab size Macintyre/lloveras type of universal refiner/conche. The ECGC is probably going to be significantly cheaper than a new universal. I know there are people on both sides of the discussion regarding machinery. We started with a santha and found it impractical in our market to make such a small amount of chocolate every few days. Unlike other companies who opted for universals, we searched and bought 3 machines to replace the santha- a 3 roll refiner (from before 1939) a hammer mill, and a 400 kg Carle & Montanari conche. Our reasoning was based on control. We wanted to be able to control particle size reduction uniformly, and separate the refining step from conche to really be able to dial in the amount of conching for the particular batch. I've seen some of the newer universals and spoken to a few manufacturers who swear by them. There loud and can give great results in 12 hrs. That wasn't what we were looking for. The sales rep for Lloveras told me that the blades are stronger than they used to be and don't need to be replaced as frequently. I didn't like the sound of blade bits in the chocolate, but that can apparently be fixed with magnets. As for the ecgc, I spoke with there reps a while back and it sounds like a better built santha that can also have variable speed and heat, which is really what the santha was missing. To asnwer ezekiel, I would say that your budget/financials will determine what machine to buy. I think it is worth noting that "most" (i don't like to use that word) fine chocolates are still made on "older" machinery -the grand crus from felchlin, valrhona, amadei, de vries, amano, soma, askinosie has universal and conches. So do some more research and ask more questions. I spoke with reps from most of the major chocolate machinery manufacturers in Europe, every chocolate maker that would talk to me, forums like this one and others. Good luck and take the time to learn how you make chocolate, and how you want to make chocolate, and if its a business how you are going to make money. All the best, Jo
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Post by ezekiel on Aug 9, 2009 7:06:25 GMT -5
Yes, I'm looking for opinions on the small universal refiner/conche machines on the market as compared to the ECGC type of machine.
I'm actually leaning towards the ECGC. I like the idea of the stone grinding better than the metal bades. Also, the noise level from the universal machines are a big concern since initial production will be in a purpose built room in our home.
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Post by ezekiel on Aug 9, 2009 21:27:18 GMT -5
I do have a question about the ECGC-60. Does the frequency speed controller allow it to run from single phase?
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Post by Alchemist on Aug 11, 2009 7:39:40 GMT -5
I do have a question about the ECGC-60. Does the frequency speed controller allow it to run from single phase? I believe that is the case. I am verifying to be sure. My understanding is that you would need 220 V, single phase and the frequency control would convert and control to 3 phase for the motor. They are now officially available here. GrindeursI will be up front and say I have not tried these personally, but have spoken with a number of people who did jump in on them early and all seem satisfied that they are doing the job. Please let me know if there are further questions and I will get on them as fast as I can.
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Post by ezekiel on Aug 11, 2009 8:50:06 GMT -5
Thanks for the info. I'm still researching my options but the Grindeur sounds like a likely candidate. Hopefully, we'll have the chocolate kitchen built in another 3-4 months.
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Post by Alchemist on Aug 12, 2009 8:31:47 GMT -5
I have confirmed that the frequency controller does indeed also act as a phase modifier and is the route you would want to take if you don't have 3 phase. It accepts single phase and outputs three phase at the frequency you desire to the motor.
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Post by coastalsage on Feb 15, 2010 16:55:11 GMT -5
I am thinking about getting an EGCG-60 for my business, and am looking for some reviews of them from people before to take into consideration. Anyone have one??
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Post by Brad on Feb 15, 2010 23:58:51 GMT -5
What's an EGCG-60?
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Post by Sebastian on Feb 16, 2010 5:45:24 GMT -5
a bigger santha.
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Post by redstar on Mar 1, 2010 16:33:06 GMT -5
I have an ECGC60 and have run a few batches through it now. I like it but there are a few problems: - the stones did not match the granite base so I ran it a few times with water in to wear them in against each other. The suppliers told me not to do this but I had the same thing with a small Ultra and it is the way to go, I believe. - there are no "on/off" switches so you have to control it from the wall. Not great from a health and safety prespective and I will have to sort this out. I think it will end up in a cage so that you can't get too close to the rotating drum without switching it off. I'm OK but visitors might be less aware. - I am heating it with a simple heat lamp dangled above. Not great control but a cheap option for now. - the machine takes a while to heat up so pre-heat everything you can first. - it took ages longer than promised to get here. - removing the stones is awkward and I need to rig something up so I can do it solo Generally - I like it and the current expansion plan would include getting another one. They are simple to operate and will be simple to maintain. So far the chocolate tastes good too! Duffy
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