LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Salvinox SS Review

A Practical Look at the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Salvinox SS

For years, my meat processing setup has relied on a trusty grinder, and when it came time to replace a worn-out component, I naturally gravitated towards LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Salvinox SS. The specific need arose from a noticeable decline in grind quality; my old plates were dulling, leading to a mushier texture and increased processing time, especially when tackling tougher cuts or making finer grinds. It was a frustrating bottleneck in what is otherwise a fairly straightforward process.

My initial impression of this replacement plate was positive. The Salvinox SS material feels substantial, a step up from some of the softer steels I’ve encountered in generic replacement parts. Its clean, precise machining was immediately apparent, suggesting good quality control from LEM Products. I had considered generic, lower-priced alternatives, but the thought of sacrificing grind consistency or durability made me stick with a brand I trust. My immediate feeling was one of quiet satisfaction; this looked like a component that would get the job done reliably.

Real-World Testing: Putting LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Salvinox SS to the Test

My testing ground for these LEM Products grinder plates was primarily my home workshop, which doubles as my butcher block station. I integrated them into my existing grinder setup, which I use for everything from grinding pork shoulder for sausage to processing venison for burgers and chili. The testing involved several consecutive batches of meat, pushing the plates through their paces over multiple grinding sessions.

During the first use, I was immediately struck by how smoothly the meat passed through the 6mm plate holes. The grind was consistent and uniform, a stark contrast to the struggle I’d experienced with the old, dull plates. There was no significant “mushing” of the fat, and the resultant ground meat had a desirable texture for both sausages and general cooking. Even when processing slightly warmer meat, which can sometimes cause issues, the performance remained excellent.

Over several months of intermittent but consistent use, these LEM Products plates have proven their mettle. I’ve processed probably 50-60 pounds of various meats through them, and they show no discernible signs of dulling or wear. The stainless steel construction has held up remarkably well, resisting any hint of rust even after being washed and air-dried. Cleaning is straightforward; a good scrub with a stiff brush and some hot, soapy water is usually sufficient, followed by a thorough rinse and dry. Compared to my previous generic plates that started showing wear after just a few uses, this upgrade has been significant in terms of longevity and performance consistency.

Extended Use & Reliability

The 3-1/4in diameter plate has consistently delivered the expected output, making sausage making and burger prep far more efficient. The hubless design allows for easy flipping should one side theoretically show more wear, though after this much use, that seems a distant concern. I’ve noticed no reduction in grind speed or quality, which is a testament to the hardness and quality that LEM Products claims for its Salvinox SS material.

My prior experience with lesser plates often involved a noticeable degradation in performance after a few uses. This LEM plate, however, has maintained its sharpness and cutting efficiency throughout. Even when grinding fattier cuts or slightly tougher game meats, it slices through cleanly without bogging down the grinder motor.

Maintenance has been minimal beyond regular cleaning. I ensure they are dried thoroughly after each use to prevent any potential staining, though the rust-resistant nature of the stainless steel provides a good safety net. Storing them is simple; they fit neatly within the grinder’s casing or in a small container.

Durability & Maintenance

The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Salvinox SS are built to last. I’ve dropped them on the concrete workshop floor once or twice (accidentally, of course), and they emerged unscathed, showing no nicks or deformations. This speaks volumes about the robust stainless steel construction.

The ease of cleaning is a significant advantage. Unlike some porous materials that can retain odors or become difficult to sanitize, the smooth, hard surface of this plate rinses clean with minimal effort. This is crucial for any food processing equipment.

There’s little to criticize regarding durability. The only “maintenance” one might consider is ensuring they are properly seated against a sharp knife to achieve optimal grinding performance. Changing both the knife and plate simultaneously, as recommended by LEM Products, ensures the longest life and best performance for both components.

Breaking Down the Features of LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Salvinox SS

Specifications

The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Salvinox SS are designed for a specific grind size and grinder compatibility. The key specifications include a 3-1/4in plate diameter, which is standard for many #20 and #22 size grinders, making it a versatile fit. The 1/4in plate holes (which is equivalent to the stated 6mm) are precisely cut, ensuring a consistent output size ideal for a “regular” or coarse grind. The material is Salvinox SS, a high-grade stainless steel known for its rust resistance and durability, crucial for food-grade equipment.

These specifications translate directly into performance. The 1/4in holes are perfect for creating the desired texture in sausages like Summer Sausage, Salami, and Snack Sticks. This size provides enough texture without being so coarse that larger grinds are inconsistent. The 3-1/4in diameter ensures proper fit and engagement within the grinder head, and the stainless steel composition means it won’t corrode or impart metallic tastes into the food, a critical factor in maintaining flavor integrity. The hubless design adds a practical element, allowing for use on either side and maximizing its lifespan before needing replacement.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Salvinox SS is to process meat to a specific consistency, and it excels at this. The 1/4in plate holes consistently produce a coarse grind that is exactly what’s needed for many cured and dried sausage recipes. This provides a good bite and texture that you can’t achieve with finer grinds.

Its primary strength is the clean, efficient grind it provides, especially when paired with a sharp knife. The meat passes through with minimal resistance, leading to faster processing times and less heat build-up, which is essential for preserving meat quality. A minor point of consideration is that for some applications, like very fine burger grinds, this plate would be too coarse, but that’s by design given its intended purpose. It meets and exceeds expectations for its intended grind size.

Design & Ergonomics

From a design standpoint, the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Salvinox SS are purely functional and robust. The stainless steel finish is smooth and utilitarian, with no unnecessary embellishments. The precision of the 6mm holes is evident, with clean edges and uniform spacing.

Ergonomically, its design is dictated by its function within a grinder. The 3-1/4in diameter allows it to slot into place securely within compatible grinder heads. The hubless design is a smart touch, simplifying installation and maintenance by eliminating a potential point of failure or uneven wear. Its substantial weight and the feel of the hardened stainless steel convey a sense of quality and durability.

Durability & Maintenance

The Salvinox SS material is the star here for durability. LEM Products has a reputation for using quality materials, and this plate exemplifies that. I anticipate many years of use from this single plate, especially with proper care.

Maintenance is simple: clean and dry. The rust-resistant nature of the stainless steel is a significant advantage, reducing the need for more aggressive cleaning or protective coatings. If it does get dirty, a bit of scrubbing with a non-abrasive brush and soap will get it back to looking new. There are no complex parts or mechanisms to worry about, just a solid piece of metal designed for a specific task.

Accessories and Customization Options

These grinder plates are not typically purchased with a wide array of accessories. Their customization lies in their compatibility with specific grinder sizes and the choice of different hole sizes. LEM Products offers various plate sizes, and users can choose based on their desired grind consistency. This particular 6mm plate is designed to work optimally with the corresponding #20/22 grinder size.

The main “accessory” consideration for these plates is ensuring you have a matching, sharp grinder knife. LEM Products strongly advises changing the knife and plate together for optimal grinding performance and longevity. This synergistic approach ensures that both components wear evenly and maintain peak efficiency.

Pros and Cons of LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Salvinox SS

Who Should Buy LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Salvinox SS?

This 6mm grinder plate is an ideal purchase for home sausage makers, hunters, and anyone who processes their own meat for burgers, chili, or other coarse grind applications. If you own a #20 or #22 grinder from LEM Products or a compatible brand and are looking for a durable, high-quality replacement or an upgrade, this is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for those who prioritize a consistent, coarse texture in their ground meat.

Those who need very fine grinds for specific recipes, like pâtés or smooth emulsified sausages, should look at plates with smaller hole sizes (e.g., 3mm or 4.5mm). Additionally, users with very old or obscure grinder models might want to double-check their grinder’s specific plate size requirements before purchasing, though the 3-1/4in diameter is quite common. A must-have accessory alongside this plate is a sharp, matching grinder knife, also preferably from LEM Products, to ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion on LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Salvinox SS

The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Salvinox SS are a testament to thoughtful engineering and quality material selection. They deliver exactly what they promise: a robust, reliable component that consistently produces a superb coarse grind, essential for many meat processing tasks. The stainless steel build ensures longevity and ease of maintenance, making it a practical investment for any serious home butcher.

For its price point of $47.99, the value proposition is strong. You’re paying for a piece of equipment that will likely outlast several sets of cheaper, generic plates. While it’s designed for a specific grind size, within that niche, it performs exceptionally well. I would absolutely recommend this 6mm grinder plate to anyone looking to maintain or improve the performance of their #20/22 grinder, especially for applications like summer sausage, salami, and snack sticks. It’s a smart purchase that enhances the entire grinding experience.