LEM Products #32 Grinder Plates 3mm, Salvinox SS Review

The LEM Products #32 Grinder Plates 3mm, Salvinox SS: A Review After Real Use

My quest for consistent, fine-ground texture in my meat processing led me to the LEM Products #32 Grinder Plates 3mm, Salvinox SS. As a gear specialist with a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, from sterile labs to rugged workshops, I understand the critical role of precision components. My existing #32 grinder plate, while serviceable, was showing its age, impacting the quality of my ground meats and requiring excessive force to push through. I considered generic aftermarket plates and even a slightly larger grind size for my existing LEM grinder, but ultimately decided to stick with LEM Products’ own component for compatibility and quality assurance. The moment I unboxed these new plates, I felt a tangible sense of relief and anticipation; the build quality was immediately apparent, promising an end to my grinding frustrations.

First Use Experience

My initial test of the LEM Products #32 Grinder Plates 3mm, Salvinox SS took place in my home workshop, where I was processing a batch of venison for sausage. The plate integrated seamlessly into my LEM #32 grinder. The 3mm holes are indeed fine, yielding a beautifully consistent, almost paste-like grind that’s perfect for emulsified sausages. I experienced no binding or slippage, even when grinding leaner cuts, which had been a problem with my worn-out plate. The material felt robust, and the cutting action was noticeably sharper, requiring less effort from the motor.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past few months, these grinder plates have been put through their paces, handling everything from beef and pork to poultry and even vegetables for pet food. They’ve held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of significant wear or performance degradation. I’ve deliberately avoided excessive cleaning in some instances to test their resistance to rust, and the Salvinox SS (Stainless Steel) material has lived up to its name, resisting any discoloration or corrosion. Maintenance is straightforward; a quick rinse and dry after each use, with occasional soaking in a mild degreaser, has kept them in pristine condition. Compared to some budget brand plates I’ve used in the past, these LEM plates are in a different league for durability and consistent performance.

Specifications

The LEM Products #32 Grinder Plates 3mm, Salvinox SS come with a 1/8 inch plate hole size, which translates to a very fine grind. The overall plate diameter is 3-7/8 inches, ensuring it fits properly within the #32 grinder head. Constructed from high-quality Stainless Steel, these plates are designed for longevity and resistance to rust, a crucial factor in food processing equipment. The hubless design is a clever feature, allowing the plate to be used on either side, effectively doubling its lifespan before the cutting edges become too worn. This specific model comes as a single plate, so if you need spares or a complete set for optimal performance, you’ll need to purchase them separately. The 3mm hole size is the key specification for achieving the ultra-fine grind this plate is designed for.

Performance & Functionality

This plate excels at its primary function: producing an exceptionally fine grind. The 1/8 inch holes are perfectly sized for creating smooth, consistent textures for products like fine sausages, pâtés, or even finely ground vegetables. The cutting action is efficient, minimizing heat buildup in the meat, which is vital for food safety and quality. Its main strength lies in its consistency; every grind is remarkably uniform, a stark contrast to the uneven results I’ve experienced with worn or lower-quality plates. One minor area for consideration is that for extremely coarse grinds, this plate is too fine; a coarser plate from LEM would be needed for that purpose.

Design & Ergonomics

The Salvinox SS material not only offers excellent corrosion resistance but also feels substantial and well-machined. The finish is smooth, with no rough edges or burrs, which is critical for food safety and preventing material from contaminating the product. Its hubless design is particularly user-friendly; it means there’s no “up” or “down” orientation to worry about, simplifying installation and replacement. The plate’s weight feels appropriate – sturdy enough to suggest durability without being excessively heavy. The Stainless Steel construction contributes to a premium feel, indicating that this is a component built to last.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is where the LEM Products #32 Grinder Plates 3mm, Salvinox SS truly shine. After numerous grinding sessions, I’ve observed no significant wear on the cutting edges or the face of the plate. The Salvinox SS material seems exceptionally hard-wearing, resisting dulling far better than standard steel plates. Cleaning is as simple as rinsing with hot water and a brush, then drying thoroughly. I’ve even run some slightly tougher materials through it, and it has held up admirably. Potential failure points on grinder plates typically involve chipping or excessive wear on the cutting edges; these LEM plates appear highly resistant to both.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the LEM Products #32 Grinder Plates 3mm, Salvinox SS is a standalone component, its primary accessory is the corresponding LEM #32 grinder knife. LEM strongly recommends changing both the knife and plate simultaneously for optimal performance and longevity. This is a sound piece of advice; a sharp knife working against a sharp plate is crucial for efficient grinding and preventing motor strain. These plates are designed specifically for LEM #32 grinders, ensuring perfect compatibility and alignment. There are no other “customization” options for the plate itself, as its purpose is singular and defined by its precise hole size and material.

Who Should Buy LEM Products #32 Grinder Plates 3mm, Salvinox SS?

This grinder plate is an ideal choice for home sausage makers, butchers, and anyone processing meat or other ingredients who requires a consistently fine grind. It’s perfect for those making emulsified sausages like bratwurst or frankfurters, or for creating very smooth pâtés. If you’re already a user of a LEM #32 grinder, this replacement or upgrade is a no-brainer for maintaining or improving your grinding quality. Individuals looking to achieve a texture almost like a coarse paste will find this plate indispensable.

Those who primarily process tougher, grittier materials or require very coarse grinds should consider a different plate size or a coarser grind plate from LEM Products. While the Salvinox SS is robust, it is still a precision component; if your work involves extreme abuse or contamination with grit that could damage the cutting edges, you might need to reassess your overall setup. A must-have complementary item is a sharp LEM #32 grinder knife to pair with this plate for the best results.

Conclusion on LEM Products #32 Grinder Plates 3mm, Salvinox SS

The LEM Products #32 Grinder Plates 3mm, Salvinox SS is a stellar example of a purpose-built component that performs its intended function with exceptional finesse. Its durable Salvinox SS construction, combined with the precision 1/8 inch hole size and user-friendly hubless design, makes it a standout in its category. For anyone dedicated to achieving the finest grind possible with their LEM #32 grinder, this plate is a wise investment that significantly enhances product quality and grinder efficiency. While it won’t handle coarse grinds, its specialization in fine texture is where it truly excels, making the $32.21 price point an excellent value for the consistent, high-quality results it delivers. I wholeheartedly recommend this plate to anyone serious about achieving professional-grade fine grinds in their home or commercial kitchen.