Biro Mixer Grinders and Meat-Room Machines: Use and Care

Which manual covers which machine

The Biro machines covered here are the AFMG-24, AFMG-52, EMG-32, and MINI-32 auto feed mixer grinders, the FBC-4800SS frozen block chipper, and the VTS-100 vacuum tumbler. Biro provides separate instruction manuals for each model series. The Instruction Manual AFMG-24 applies to the AFMG-24; the Instruction Manual MINI-32 covers the MINI-32. The AFMG-52 and EMG-32 have their own instruction manuals with their capacities and electrical requirements.

The Instruction Manual FBC-4800SS is dedicated to the frozen block chipper, and the Instruction Manual VTS-100 covers the vacuum tumbler. Always keep the correct manual with the machine and ensure every operator has read it before using the equipment.

Installation and electrical setup

All Biro machines must be installed by a qualified technician and electrician. The manuals stress that the equipment must be placed on a solid, level, non-skid surface in a well-lit work area away from children and visitors. For the AFMG-24, the adjustable legs allow a height from 24½ in. to 34 in. from the floor to the bowl centreline; the machine weighs approximately 600 lb. The MINI-32 does not have adjustable legs and is installed directly on the floor. The FBC-4800SS requires floor stops anchored to the floor with ⅜-16 × 1½ in. expansion anchors. The VTS-100 is a benchtop or floor unit with optional locking swivel casters.

Electrical requirements vary by model. The AFMG-24 manual specifies a minimum of No. 10 wire from the power source. The MINI-32 requires a minimum of No. 12 wire. The FBC-4800SS needs No. 10 wire if the distance is 25 ft or less, and No. 8 wire if over 25 ft. All machines must be properly grounded. A qualified electrician must perform the connection according to local building codes and the National Electrical Code. The motor specifications (voltage, phase, amperage) are listed in each manual; verify that the supply matches the motor nameplate. Never bypass or modify any safety interlock switches.

Daily operation and controls

Mixer Grinders (AFMG-24, MINI-32, and similar): The AFMG-24 has a green start button, a red stop button, and a clutch arm to engage the grinding auger. The MINI-32 uses a start/stop switch and a grind engage/disengage lever. Both have a magnetic interlock on the product mixer safety cover; the machine will not run with the cover open. For the AFMG-24, fill the hopper with a maximum of 140 lb of product. For the MINI-32, the maximum is 55 lb. For the first grind, use a breaker plate with ⅜ in. or larger holes. Push the green button, engage the grind, and allow product to feed. When finished, push the red stop button and disengage the grind. For a second grind, refill the hopper, start the mixer, add seasonings through the sight holes (or by lifting the cover on the MINI-32), mix as desired, then engage the grind. Always unplug and perform lockout/tagout after use. The AFMG-24 manual warns never to operate without product in the grinding bowl, as this can heat and dull the knife and plate.

Frozen Block Chipper (FBC-4800SS): Place a meat lug under the machine. Prepare a 60 lb tempered meat block at 15–25°F, with a maximum block size of 8 in. × 16½ in. × 19½ in. The chute cover must be completely closed; the magnet must contact the safety switch. Push the green start button. Chipping takes approximately 60 seconds. Push the red stop button, unplug, and perform lockout/tagout. The manual notes that an optional chute filler plate is available for narrower blocks.

Vacuum Tumbler (VTS-100): Weigh the product and add marinade and water according to your recipe. Use the jog switch to position the drum opening upright. Install the lid gasket, place the cover, and secure the four latches. Connect the vacuum hose to the valve, with the valve handle parallel to the body (open). Turn on the vacuum pump; the gauge should rise to between 15 and 20 in. Hg, never exceeding 20 in. Hg. Close the valve (perpendicular), turn off the pump, and remove the hose. Program the timer and press the green start button; adjust the speed control knob to the desired RPM. When the cycle ends, turn off the motor, jog the drum to the upright position, open the valve to release vacuum, and remove the lid. Never turn the drum by hand.

Cleaning and routine care

All manuals require turning off, unplugging, and performing lockout/tagout before cleaning. Use warm soapy water and rinse with clean water. Power spray washing is allowed but never spray directly at electrical components. After cleaning, allow to air dry and coat exposed metal surfaces with a food-grade light oil or grease.

Mixer Grinders: For the AFMG-24, remove the end ring, breaker plate, knife, and grinding auger. Remove the mixing paddle by loosening the thumb screw, removing the lock arm, turning the paddle counterclockwise, and sliding it forward. The MINI-32 requires removing the hopper and grinding bowl assembly as well; follow the disassembly instructions in the manual. Do not use abrasive cleaners on the clear hopper cover. The manuals provide do’s and don’ts for knife and plate care: always keep knives and plates as matched sets, never over-tighten the retaining ring, and never run the grinder without product.

Frozen Block Chipper: Lift the chute cover, disengage the chute cover support, and open the upper frame assembly by loosening the hand wheel. The shuttle may be removed for cleaning. After cleaning, lubricate the slide rods with food-grade oil or grease.

Vacuum Tumbler: Remove the drum, lid, and gasket; wash them in a utensil sink. Flush the vacuum valve with warm soapy water. Sanitize all parts with an approved sanitizer and air dry. The exterior can be wiped or pressure washed. For stains, use a product like Bon Ami or Soft Scrub, scrubbing with the grain of the stainless steel. Vinegar and water can remove streaks.

Maintenance and lubrication

Mixer Grinders: The AFMG-24 manual recommends relubricating motor bearings annually and main bearings semi-annually with a good grade of bearing grease. The transmissions are enclosed and sealed; do not over-grease. The MINI-32 manual states that motor bearings are pre-lubricated and should be relubricated annually. The roller chain and drive sprockets should be manually lubricated as often as needed, at least every three months.

Frozen Block Chipper: Lubricate the slide rods daily with food-grade oil. Soak the crank pin felt wick once a year with 90 weight oil. Change the transmission oil after the first month of operation, then every year; use SAE 90 multi-purpose gear oil for room temperatures above 20°F, or SAE 80 below 20°F. Grease the motor and gearbox zerk fittings once a year. Check the guillotine knife and runner blades for wear and resharpening or replacement.

Vacuum Tumbler: The vacuum pump is oilless; do not lubricate it. Drain the pump filter daily by unscrewing the drain plug. Replace the filter element (part VTS529-1) monthly. The Grove gear reducer requires an initial oil change after 250 hours of operation, then every 2,500 hours or six months, whichever comes first. Use an AGMA 7 compounded oil (e.g., Mobil 600 W Super Cylinder Oil) for ambient temperatures of 30–100°F. Do not mix different oils.

Troubleshooting

The FBC-4800SS manual includes a troubleshooting table. If the machine is not chipping properly, check: product temperature (should be 15–25°F), dull or broken blades, missing or broken chute spring, wrong rotation direction, worn slide bearings, or dry slide rods. If the machine is not operating, check for a sheared crank arm pin, damaged transmission gear, or sheared keys.

The VTS-100 manual provides a troubleshooting table for the vacuum pump. Low vacuum or pressure can be caused by a dirty filter, dirty muffler, collapsed vacuum line, sticking vanes, or worn vanes. High vacuum or pressure may be due to a relief valve set too high. Overheating or overload can result from a dirty filter, plugged vacuum line, dust in the pump, or incorrect motor wiring. Always disconnect power before inspecting.

If the mixer grinder fails to start, check that the safety cover is fully closed and the magnetic interlock is engaged. For any persistent issue, contact the manufacturer’s authorized service network.

Service and support

For repairs beyond routine maintenance, always use the manufacturer’s authorized service network. Biro’s manuals emphasize using only genuine Biro parts and accessories. If a warning label or manual becomes damaged or illegible, request a replacement from your distributor or Biro directly. For questions about a specific model or to order parts, ask Norpex.

Common questions