How is the
Pugger-Mixer different from other pugmills?
A Peter Pugger does the job of two machines. Unlike other pugmills that
require a separate mixer to prepare the clay, the unique design of
these Pugger-Mixers combines the best of both machines into a clay
mixing machine with pugmill output. The Power Wedger models also vacuum
deair the clay prior to pugging. This eliminates the need for wedging
in many applications. The ability to start with powder and/or dry scrap
and finish by pugging a uniform batch of moist clay sets Peter Pugger
machines apart from all other studio pugmills. Standard with every
Peter Pugger Pugger-Mixer is a control switch that automatically shuts
off the mixing blades when the hopper door is opened. This prevents the
mixing blades from moving while loading clay.
Why is the Pugger-Mixer rated in batch size instead of
pounds per hour?
With a Pugger-Mixer, you don't have to spend hours continually
force-feeding like other studio pugmills. Just drop a batch in the
large hopper opening and, while the machine mixes, you are free to do
something else! In other words, Pugger-Mixers are rated by the size of
the batch they can mix. We have estimated mixing and pugging pounds per
hour for your convenience in the specifications section of each
machine.
Why is batch mixing similar to a washing machine?
Batch mixing is similar to a washing machine because you can throw the
whole batch in at once - instead of hand feeding each piece like other
pugmills. Peter Pugger batch mixes while you're free to do something
else. All other pugmills require pre-mixed clay and, similar to hand
washing, require continuous hand feeding one piece at a time. Batch
mixing enables complete recycling, mixing from powder, and blending
grog or paper. Batch sizes range from 20 - 185lbs.
How long does it take to mix a batch?
It takes an average of five to fifteen minutes to mix and pug a batch
of clay. Processing time depends on the condition of the material going
into the pugger-mixer. Moist scrap or powder and measured water will
blend up quickly. Dry chunks take longer to smooth out completely.
What type of
clay can I mix?
All Peter Puggers mix moist clay from powder and water, reclaim scrap
(wet or dry), blend two or more different bodies, add materials to an
already moist clay body or adjust moisture of an already wet body. Any
unfired clay can be reclaimed in the Peter Pugger.
How can the
Power Wedger save me time and money?
The Power Wedger does the work of both a clay mixer and a pugmill but
takes the space of only one machine. Buckets for storing and soaking
scrap can be eliminated if scrap is stored directly in the hopper of
the Pugger-Mixer. The biggest savings will be your most valuable
resource, time. The Power Wedger is like having a tireless studio
assistant. The increased ability and ease of recycling clay will help
save money on your clay bill. Buying only one machine that can both mix
and pug for little more than the cost of either is also a money savings
and a space saver. Proven high quality and low maintenance over the
long run and a solid guarantee will produce even more savings.
There
is no need to use your time continually force feeding clay into a
pugmill. Simply load the hopper and let it mix. The Power Wedger will
safely mix and deair the clay without constant attention. The reduction
of physical exertion for clay preparation and processing will be an
added benefit, saving your talents for more creative endeavors.
How can the
Pugger-Mixer save me time and
money?
Time:
There is no need to continually hand feed the Pugger-Mixer, your
valuable time can be spent elsewhere during most of the preparation
cycle.
Space:
The Pugger-Mixer does the work of both a clay mixer and a pugmill but
takes the space of only one machine. Buckets for storing and soaking
scrap can be eliminated if scrap is stored directly in the hopper.
Money:
The biggest money savings will certainly be your time - your most
valuable resource. Buying only one machine that can both mix and pug -
for little more than the cost of either - is also a savings. Of course,
if you can save a little space, that's worth something too. High
quality, long guarantee and low maintenance over the long run will
produce even more savings.
What is the Peter Pugger
Manufacturing guarantee?
Two year coverage on the whole machine. Return the broken part and it
will be replaced or repaired free of charge. Thereafter all parts are
available from Peter Pugger inventories or standard parts can be
obtained through local industrial hardware sources. We will do
everything we can to keep your Peter Pugger up and running long into
the future.
Is cleaning easy?
Complete cleaning is only necessary to avoid cross contamination of
different clay bodies. Peter Pugger was designed to have the weight
distributed over large, durable wheels to make moving the pugger-mixer
easy. Removing the reducing cone and nozzle gives complete access to
the auger blades (PM-50, VPM-60 and PM-100), allowing the parts to
be scraped or hosed clean. On the VPM-20 and VPM-30 the mixing blades
and auger are easily removed to access the mixing chamber for cleaning.
After cleaning, the reverse process is followed for assembly.
Do I need to remove clay from the
machine when left for long periods?
Extended storage is a concern with all clay processing equipment.
Unlike standard pugmills, the pugger-mixer can remix clay that has
dried inside. Just clear the nozzle, add water and remix - after all,
that is what Peter Puggers are designed to do. Standard pugmills, if
not used for a while, may be severely damaged if run with dry clay
inside.
