When it comes to cooking efficiency and consistency, a piece of equipment that is often overlooked is the conveyor oven. Often a staple in commercial kitchens, this equipment is a workhorse, offering an innovative way of cooking a variety of menu items. It cooks food not by confining it in a static position, but by continuously moving it through a heated chamber. But what exactly is a conveyor oven?

What is a Conveyor Oven?

A conveyor oven, also commonly known as a conveyor pizza oven due to its popularity in pizza establishments, is a type of kitchen cooking equipment that uses a conveyor belt to move food through a heated chamber.

This mechanism allows for a consistent and regulated cooking process, with the heat sources being anything from infrared ovens, radiant ovens, to hot air. Conveyor ovens come in different shapes and sizes, from large-scale industrial furnaces to small countertop models, and they all have unique attributes and features.

What are The 5 Main Features of a Conveyor Oven?

Conveyor ovens provide a distinct set of features that distinguish them from other cooking equipment. Here are some unique features of most conveyor ovens:

• Uniform Temperature: A conveyor oven maintains a uniform temperature throughout the cooking chamber. Whether it's radiant heat, hot air, or infrared oven technology, the heat distribution is consistent and even.

• Conveyor Belts: The conveyor belt is the heart of the conveyor oven. It can vary in size, with different belt widths available depending on the model and intended application.

• Different Heating Methods: These ovens can use various heating methods, such as infrared, radiant heat, or hot air impingement, where a fan blows heated air onto the food.

• Flexible Cooking Times: Conveyor ovens offer adjustable speed settings for the conveyor belt, allowing operators to control the residence time, or cook times, of the food in the oven.

• Energy Efficient: Due to their design and cooking process, conveyor ovens are considered to be more energy-efficient than traditional ovens.

What are the 5 Most Popular Conveyor Oven Types?

There are several types of conveyor ovens, each having specific applications and advantages.

Overhead Conveyor Oven

An overhead conveyor oven is equipped with a conveyor system suspended from the ceiling. It's often used for thermal processing applications such as tempering, annealing, and stress relieving, making it more common in industrial settings than in commercial kitchens.

Ventless Conveyor Ovens

As the name suggests, ventless ovens do not require ventilation, which can save on installation costs and allow for more flexible positioning within a kitchen.

Impinger Ovens

An impinger oven, also known as an air impingement oven, uses jets of hot air directed at the food, reducing cooking times and improving energy efficiency. This is a popular choice for pizza and hot sandwiches.

Conveyor Pizza Oven

This type of conveyor oven is specifically designed for cooking pizzas. It offers a consistent temperature and a controlled cooking time, producing pizzas with perfectly timed baking.

Tunnel Ovens

Tunnel ovens are a type of conveyor oven used in high volume production environments. They have a large cooking chamber and are typically used for baking, drying, and curing applications.

Based on Energy Source

The source of energy for a conveyor oven plays a critical role in its performance, and the choice between natural gas, liquid propane gas (LPG), and electricity is often based on the specific needs and constraints of the operation.

• Natural Gas is a popular choice for many commercial kitchens due to its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. It provides a consistent heat source that enables even and precise cooking, crucial for a conveyor oven's operation. Natural gas is also typically cheaper than electricity in many regions, making it an economical choice for businesses. However, it requires a gas line connection, which may not always be feasible, depending on the location.
• Liquid Propane Gas (LPG) shares many characteristics with natural gas, offering an efficient and consistent heat source. It's a particularly viable option where natural gas lines are not available since propane tanks can be stored on-site and connected to the oven. However, storage and safety regulations must be strictly adhered to.
• Electricity, on the other hand, is widely accessible and doesn't require the installation of gas lines or storage of fuel, making it a practical option for many businesses. Electric conveyor ovens often feature precise temperature control, ensuring consistent cooking results. While the cost of electricity may be higher than natural gas in some areas, the ease of installation and use can offset this.

Choosing the right energy source for your conveyor oven depends on your specific operational needs, local fuel costs, and infrastructure availability. It's essential to consider these factors to select an oven that offers efficient, reliable, and cost-effective performance.

What are the Main Applications of Conveyor Ovens?

From baking pizzas to broiling chicken wings, conveyor ovens can cater to a wide range of cooking processes. They can handle high demand and high volume operations like fast-food chains, while their compact, countertop models can fit into smaller commercial kitchens with limited available space.

Their versatility extends beyond the culinary world.

For instance, in the industrial sector, conveyor ovens are used for thermal processes, including tempering, annealing, and curing materials.

They have also found applications in non-food industries such as the production of catalytic converters in the automobile sector.

What are the Advantages of Cooking with a Conveyor Oven?

Conveyor ovens offer several significant advantages that make them a worthwhile investment for various businesses. Some of these advantages include:

• Consistency: Conveyor ovens provide consistent heat distribution, which results in evenly cooked food every time.

• Efficiency: With their continuous cooking process, conveyor ovens can handle high volume requirements, making them ideal for busy commercial kitchens.

• Versatility: These ovens can cook a wide range of food products from pizzas to sandwiches and even vegetables. This versatility allows them to cater to diverse menu items.

• Ease of Use: They are straightforward to operate. You just need to set the temperature and belt speed, and the oven does the rest.

• Space Saving: Especially countertop models that can save more space in commercial kitchens.

Cooking Techniques with Conveyor Ovens

One of the significant advantages of conveyor ovens is their versatility when it comes to cooking techniques. Here are a few:

• Baking: Conveyor ovens excel in baking applications. From pizzas to bread, pastries, and even desserts, they provide uniform heat that ensures even baking.

• Broiling: With the right temperature settings, conveyor ovens can be used for broiling, perfect for toppings that need a quick, intense heat.

• Roasting: For foods that require longer cooking times, conveyor ovens provide steady, continuous heat that's perfect for roasting.

• Grilling: With the use of radiant heat or infrared heating elements, conveyor ovens can mimic the effects of grilling, adding a delightful char to your food.

• Steaming: Some models of conveyor ovens can utilize steam for cooking, which is beneficial for foods that retain moisture, such as vegetables.

How Much Does a Conveyor Oven Cost?

The cost of a conveyor oven typically varies based on size, features, and brand, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

• Smaller, countertop conveyor ovens that are suitable for small-scale businesses or home use might cost anywhere from $500 to $2,500.
• Medium-range models, often used in mid-sized restaurants and commercial establishments, may range from $2,500 to $10,000.
• High-end models, usually found in large-scale industrial settings, can range from $10,000 up to $30,000 or even more, depending on the specifications and additional features.

As a rule of thumb, it's always wise to consider your specific needs and budget before choosing a conveyor oven, ensuring it aligns with your business demands.

Conveyor Oven Price and Maintenance

Proper maintenance of a conveyor oven is pivotal for its efficient operation and longevity.

1. A crucial aspect of maintenance is regular cleaning, involving the removal of food particles, grease, and other residues from the conveyor belt and the cooking cavity. This process not only ensures a clean cooking environment but also mitigates the risk of fire hazards.
2. In addition to cleaning, regular inspection of the key components is vital. Check the heating elements, fans, and the conveyor mechanism for any signs of wear or damage. Ensuring that the heating elements are functioning optimally guarantees uniform heat distribution, a critical factor in the oven's performance.
3. The conveyor belt, the heart of the oven, requires special attention. Regularly check for any signs of wear, tear, or misalignment and correct them promptly to avoid any operational issues. If needed, consult with a professional technician for a comprehensive check-up to maintain the oven's top-notch performance.

How Long Does a Conveyor Oven Last on Average?

A high-quality conveyor oven from a reputable manufacturer, if properly maintained and used regularly, can typically last for around 10 to 15 years.

However, models subject to heavy usage in commercial settings may have a slightly shorter lifespan. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs, when necessary, can significantly enhance the longevity of the oven. Remember, a well-cared-for conveyor oven is not only a key to longevity but also ensures consistent, high-quality output throughout its life.

How to Choose a Conveyor Oven?

Choosing the right conveyor oven involves several factors.

• Firstly, consider the type of food you intend to cook. Some ovens are specifically designed for certain foods, such as pizza or sandwiches, while others offer more versatility.
• Secondly, the size and capacity of the oven are critical. Depending on your operational volume and available space, you may opt for a countertop model or a larger floor model.
• Thirdly, consider the oven's energy source, with options including natural gas and electricity. Each has its advantages and may suit different settings better. Lastly, the ease of maintenance, durability, and brand reputation are also significant factors to weigh.

When it comes to sourcing commercial conveyor ovens, Kitchenall stands out as a trusted supplier. With a wide range of models from reputable manufacturers, Kitchenall provides options to suit diverse needs.

They pride themselves on their stringent quality checks and excellent customer service, ensuring that their clients receive only the best equipment, making Kitchenall a preferred choice for many.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a conveyor oven is a versatile piece of cooking equipment that offers consistency, efficiency, and ease of use. Whether for commercial food production or industrial applications, it's a tool that can deliver reliable results time after time.

With various types to choose from, including overhead conveyor ovens, ventless conveyor ovens, and impinger ovens, there's sure to be one solution that fits your needs.

From pizza parlors to commercial kitchens and industrial environments, conveyor ovens have proven to be a valuable asset. With their unique cooking techniques, range of applications, and noteworthy advantages, it's clear to see why they've become a staple in high-demand settings. With this guide, we hope you've gained a better understanding of what a conveyor oven is, how it operates, and how it can benefit your business or operation.