Impinger Ovens
Impinger Ovens Details & Uses
Impinger ovens are perfect for quickly baking, toasting, or broiling. Because they operate with conveyor systems, impingement ovens are capable of the massive throughput needed for high-volume venues. These ovens use a combination of intense radiant heat and targeted blasts of hot air to rapidly cook food as it passes through the cooking cavity – a production style that's excellent for crisping chicken wings, melting cheese onto pasta, baking cookies, and more. However, the most popular use for an impinger oven is cooking pizza, which is why you may also hear these units referred to as a pizza impinger.
The amount of product you can cook with an impinger conveyor oven is determined by the size of the unit, the type of food you're cooking, and the width, length, and speed of the conveyor belt. Large models designed for high-volume throughput are typically freestanding machines that rest directly on the floor, also known as floor models. Smaller units, known as countertop models, are designed for low- to medium-volume throughput in a compact footprint; this type of impinger oven can be set up on a table, counter, or other temperature-resistant surface.
If you're looking for an impinger pizza oven, consider the belt width to ensure it can accommodate the largest pizza you sell. If you cook a range of items in the oven, look for a model with a high degree of temperature and belt speed control, so you can adjust the cooking cycle based on the product. Remember impingement ovens need ample room for the conveyor to operate, so you should measure the area where the unit will be installed to ensure a good fit. Last but not least, check the utilities in your kitchen to verify whether you have gas or electric connections and whether any modifications are necessary to install the oven with the existing utilities.
Common Questions About Impinger Ovens
How does an impinger oven cook food?
Impinger ovens cook food by using radiant heat combined with high-velocity hot air, which blows directly onto the food as it passes through a conveyor. This method quickens cooking time and creates a crisp, evenly cooked product. It's especially effective for items that benefit from a crispy texture, like pizza and chicken wings.
What factors determine the size and throughput of an impinger oven?
The size of an impinger oven, along with the conveyor belt's width, length, and speed, determine the cooking capacity. Large, freestanding models are ideal for high-volume cooking, while smaller countertop models are suited for low- to medium-volume operations. The conveyor belt size is also important, especially for pizza ovens, as it must accommodate your largest pizza.
What should I consider when choosing an impinger oven for pizza?
When selecting an impinger pizza oven, ensure the belt width can fit the largest pizza you plan to cook. If you plan to use the oven for a variety of products, look for a unit with adjustable temperature and belt speed controls. This will allow you to customize the cooking cycle for different items.
What are the space and installation requirements for impinger ovens?
Impingement ovens require ample space for the conveyor to operate. Measure your kitchen area to ensure the oven will fit comfortably. Also, check your existing utilities (gas or electric) to verify compatibility and determine whether modifications are necessary for installation.
Advantages of Impinger Ovens
Impinger ovens are known for their speed and versatility. The combination of radiant heat and directed hot air allows for faster cooking times, making them ideal for high-volume settings. They provide crisp, even results, especially for pizzas and other items that benefit from a crispy texture. Impinger ovens come in both freestanding and countertop models, allowing you to choose the best size and configuration for your kitchen's needs. They also offer flexibility with adjustable temperature and speed controls, enabling you to adapt the cooking process for different types of food.