GETTING STARTED
What is the Mini Chocomachine?
The Mini Chocomachine is equipment developed to temper chocolate, controlling its temperature during the process to promote the formation of stable cocoa butter crystals. This provides higher shine, better texture, proper shrinkage, and a uniform finish to the final product.
Does the Mini Chocomachine melt chocolate?
No. The Mini Chocomachine was developed to temper chocolate, not to melt it. The chocolate must be previously melted before being poured into the machine, at the temperature recommended by the manufacturer.
Can I use any type of chocolate?
Yes. The Mini Chocomachine can be used with milk, semi-sweet, dark, and white chocolate. However, each chocolate has a specific tempering curve determined by its cocoa butter composition and formulation ingredients. For best results, always follow the temperatures recommended by the chocolate manufacturer.
Is reading the manual mandatory before operation?
Yes. Read the Instruction Manual carefully before installing or operating the equipment. Compliance with installation, operation, and maintenance guidelines ensures optimal machine performance and preserves the warranty.
Can the wooden packaging (crate) be discarded?
No. The wooden packaging must be stored in a dry, ventilated place throughout the warranty period. It may be required for future moving or transportation of the equipment.
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INSTALLATION
Who should perform the electrical installation of the Mini Chocomachine?
The electrical installation must be performed by a qualified professional in compliance with current technical standards and equipment specifications. Finamac recommends that the service be executed by a legally qualified professional with active registration in the competent professional council, according to applicable legislation. It is the owner's responsibility to ensure that the electrical installation is suitable for machine operation.
What precautions should I take with the power supply?
The Mini Chocomachine must be powered by a dedicated electrical circuit protected by a circuit breaker according to manual specifications. The mains voltage must not fluctuate more than ±5% from the nominal value.
Is electrical grounding necessary?
Yes. The Mini Chocomachine must be connected to a properly grounded electrical installation in compliance with current technical standards. Grounding is essential for operator safety and protection of the equipment's electrical components.
Where should the Mini Chocomachine be installed?
Install the equipment on a flat, level, and sturdy surface in a dry, clean, and well-ventilated area. Avoid locations subject to excessive moisture, dust, or direct exposure to heat sources.
Where is the identification plate located?
The identification plate is attached to the back of the machine and contains key technical information about the equipment, such as model, serial number, manufacturing date, voltage, power, and frequency. This information should always be provided when technical assistance, parts purchases, or warranty service are needed.
Can I remove the identification plate?
No. The identification plate is essential for equipment identification and for requesting technical support, purchasing parts, and warranty service. It must not be removed or damaged.
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OPERATION
Who can operate the Mini Chocomachine?
The Mini Chocomachine should only be operated by properly trained personnel. The equipment is not intended for use by children or persons without adequate training or supervision.
Why is tempering important?
Tempering promotes the formation of stable cocoa butter crystals, delivering shine, uniform texture, good mold shrinkage, and greater stability to the final product.
Why does each chocolate have a different working temperature?
Each chocolate has a specific formulation with varying levels of cocoa butter, cocoa solids, milk, and other ingredients. These characteristics determine the manufacturer's recommended tempering curve.
How do I set the correct working temperature?
The working temperature must follow the recommendations of the used chocolate's manufacturer. Respecting the tempering curve is essential to ensure final product quality, stability, and finish.
Can I set temperatures below 28 °C?
No. Temperatures below 28 °C can cause the chocolate to solidify inside the bowl, overloading the agitation system and damaging the motor.
Can I add solid chocolate directly into the bowl?
No. The Mini Chocomachine was not designed to melt chocolate. Chocolate must be melted beforehand before being added to the bowl, at the temperature recommended by the manufacturer.
How do I get the best performance from the Mini Chocomachine?
Use high-quality chocolate, respect the manufacturer's recommended temperatures, keep the equipment clean, and follow the operation guidelines outlined in the Instruction Manual.
Can I mix chocolates from different manufacturers in the same tempering batch?
It is not recommended. Chocolates from different manufacturers may have distinct compositions and tempering curves. For higher stability and quality in the final product, it is recommended to use chocolates from the same manufacturer and follow their specified temperatures.
Can I operate the machine with safety guards removed?
No. The Mini Chocomachine must never be operated with guards removed or safety devices disabled. This practice puts the operator at risk and can compromise equipment functionality.
Can I make adaptations or modifications to the Mini Chocomachine?
No. Do not perform adaptations or modifications on the equipment without Finamac authorization. Unauthorized alterations may compromise safety, performance, and warranty.
Can chocolate remain in the bowl when the machine is not in use?
It depends on the period of inactivity. For prolonged stops, it is recommended to empty and sanitize the bowl according to the Instruction Manual guidelines. This practice helps preserve hygienic-sanitary conditions and chocolate quality.
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CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
Should the Mini Chocomachine be cleaned daily?
Yes. At the end of each working day, perform equipment cleaning to preserve hygienic-sanitary conditions, ensure chocolate quality, and contribute to component durability.
Is it necessary to turn off the machine before cleaning?
Yes. Before carrying out any cleaning or maintenance procedure, disconnect the equipment from the electrical network and make sure all moving parts have come to a complete stop.
Can I use a water jet or high-pressure washer?
No. The use of water jets or high-pressure washers can damage the electrical and electronic components of the equipment, compromising its operation.
Can I use corrosive chemical products for cleaning?
No. Only use cleaning products compatible with equipment intended for the food industry. The use of corrosive or abrasive products can damage equipment surfaces, components, and finishes.
How should the bowl and agitation system be sanitized?
Sanitation must be performed according to the procedure described in the Instruction Manual, using products suitable for food contact and avoiding damage to equipment components.
Is it important to keep the scraper fastening screws clean?
Yes. The screws that secure the scraper are also responsible for contact with the temperature sensor. Therefore, they must always be kept clean and free of chocolate residue. Product buildup at these points can compromise temperature readings, directly affecting the tempering process and final product quality.
Attention: Chocolate residues at these points can cause incorrect temperature readings and compromise tempering quality.
Does the Mini Chocomachine require preventive maintenance?
Yes. Performing periodic inspections and preventive maintenance contributes to operational reliability, longer component lifespan, and reduced unscheduled downtime.
Can I use third-party/aftermarket parts?
No. Use only genuine Finamac parts to preserve equipment performance, safety, and warranty.
Does the machine have warranty seals?
Yes. The Mini Chocomachine has seals installed at strategic points that must not be broken without authorization from Finamac After-Sales department. Seal tampering may result in loss of factory warranty.
