🔧 Purpose of Lubricant Gel in Ice Cream Machines

Reduces friction and wear – The moving parts (like the auger shaft and seals) slide smoothly, preventing scratches or damage.

Keeps seals tight – It helps o-rings and gaskets stay in place and block leaks of the ice cream mix.

Extends machine life – Less stress on the gears and motor means your machine lasts longer.

🍦 Food Safety

The gel is food-grade, meaning it’s safe if it comes into contact with your ice cream mix. Regular grease or oil can’t be used because they’re unsafe for food.

🧰 Where and How to Use

Apply a thin layer to o-rings, gaskets, and the auger shaft whenever you clean and reassemble the machine.

Use only a small amount—too much can affect performance.

🧾 SOP: Applying Lubricant Gel

1. Preparation

• Make sure the machine is switched off and unplugged.
• Wash your hands and wear food-safe gloves.
• Have your clean parts ready (after washing and sanitizing).
• Use only food-grade lubricant gel recommended by the manufacturer.

2. Parts to Lubricate

• O-Rings and Seals (found on the auger, dispensing head, and pumps if your machine has them).
• Auger Shaft (the metal shaft that rotates inside the freezing cylinder).
• Drive Shaft Seal (the rubber/teflon seal at the back of the auger shaft).

3. Application Steps

1. Dry all parts completely before applying gel.
2. Take a small pea-sized amount of lubricant gel on your finger.
3. Spread thinly and evenly around the o-ring. Make sure it covers the entire surface, not just one spot.
4. Apply a light coat on the auger shaft, focusing on the areas that contact the seal.
5. For the drive shaft seal, apply lubricant inside and outside the ring to avoid leaks.
6. Wipe off any excess—too much gel can cause mix contamination or blockages

4. Reassembly

• Insert the lubricated o-rings and shafts back into the machine carefully.
• Ensure parts fit snugly but are not over-tightened.
• Double-check that no excess gel is visible inside the mix passage.

5. Frequency

• Every cleaning cycle (usually daily, depending on usage).
• Replace o-rings if they look cracked, stretched, or worn—lubricant can’t fix damaged seals.