Plastic vs. Metal Malt Collars
Why plastic is the better choice for your mixer, cups and operation
A malt collar should help contain the product—not damage the equipment used to make it or the shake cups.
Metal malt collars can create metal-on-metal contact with the mixer spindle. Published equipment manuals warn that this contact can wear mixer components, sharpen spinner edges and result in damaged cups.
PlasTech manufactures durable plastic malt collars for commercial shake and frozen-dessert operations. Our collars eliminate the damaging metal-on-metal contact associated with metal collars while helping operators reduce splashing and keep production moving.
*Equipment recommendations vary by model. Always follow the operating and safety instructions provided for your specific mixer.
Equipment Manuals Warn About Metal Contact
This information was recently brought to our attention by a PlasTech customer, and we verified it in published customer equipment manuals.
Metal Contact Can Wear the Mixer Spindle
Published commercial mixer manuals warn that contact between metal containers or collars and the rotating mixer spindle can cause wear and damage over time. Using plastic helps avoid this metal-on-metal contact.
“Use only paper or plastic mixing containers.”
Metal Contact Can Sharpen Spindle Edges
Repeated metal-on-metal contact can wear the mixer spindle and sharpen its outer edge over time. A sharpened spindle edge may cut or damage paper and plastic shake cups, leading to product loss, additional cleanup, and equipment maintenance.
“Use only plastic malt collar. Replace spinner.”
Why Commercial Operators Choose Plastic
Protect mixer components
Plastic avoids the metal-on-metal contact associated with mixer spindle wear, helping protect the spindle and reduce the potential for sharp outer edges to develop over time.
Help prevent cup damage
Metal malt collars can create metal-on-metal contact with the mixer spindle. A damaged spinner may cut through the side of a paper or plastic shake cup, creating product loss, cleanup and service delays.
Lightweight and operator-friendly
Plastic malt collars are lighter and easier for employees to handle throughout a busy shift.
Built for commercial use
PlasTech malt collars are manufactured in the USA for restaurants, ice cream shops, frozen-dessert operations and foodservice distributors.
Safety First!
Unlike metal malt collars, which can wear against the mixer spindle over time and sharpen its outer edge, PlasTech Malt Collars are made from durable plastic that does not create the same metal-on-metal wear—helping protect the mixer spindle and creating a safer environment for employees.
Plastic vs. Metal at a Glance
| Consideration | PlasTech Plastic Malt Collar | Metal Malt Collar |
|---|---|---|
| Mixer Contact | Avoids metal-on-metal contact with mixer spindle. | Can create metal-on-metal contact with the mixer spindle. |
| Equipment Protection | Helps reduce wear caused by metal-on-metal spindle contact. | Metal contact can contribute to mixer spindle wear over time. |
| Cup Protection | Helps avoid conditions that can lead to damaged or cut shake cups. | Spindle wear caused by metal contact can create sharp edges that may damage or cut shake cups. |
| Handling | Lightweight and easy for employees to handle. | Can be heavier and more rigid. |
| Available Options | Multiple sizes and colors available. | Options vary by supplier. |
| Manufacturing | Made in the USA. | Country of origin varies. |
Ready to Make the Switch to Plastic?
PlasTech Malt Collars are made in the USA for restaurants, ice cream shops, drive-ins, and commercial foodservice operations. Reduce metal-on-metal spindle contact while keeping milkshake preparation cleaner and more efficient.