Machine For Soap Making Guide: Performance, Technical Features, and Applications Explained

Types of Machines for Soap Making

Choosing the right soap making machine is crucial for any soap production operation, whether you're starting a small artisanal brand or running a large-scale manufacturing facility. These machines automate key processes such as mixing, molding, cooling, and packaging, significantly improving efficiency, consistency, and output. Understanding the different types of machines available helps businesses match their production needs with the right equipment.

Small Scale Soap Making Machine

Ideal for startups and boutique soap makers producing limited quantities.

Advantages

• Low initial investment cost
• Compact size fits small workspaces
• Easy to operate and maintain
• Perfect for recipe testing and customization
• Enables handmade-quality production with machine efficiency

Limitations

• Limited production capacity
• Manual intervention often required
• Not suitable for high-volume demands
• Slower output compared to automated systems

Best for: Artisanal brands, local shops, hobbyists, and entrepreneurs starting a small soap business

Mid Scale Soap Making Machine

Balances automation and flexibility for growing soap businesses.

Advantages

• Higher output than small-scale machines
• Partial automation reduces labor needs
• Supports moderate customization between batches
• Scalable for expanding product lines
• Cost-effective for medium production volumes

Limitations

• Higher cost than small machines
• Requires more floor space
• May need trained operators
• Less efficient than fully automated systems

Best for: Expanding businesses, regional distributors, and companies offering diverse soap lines

Large Scale Soap Making Machine

Designed for industrial production with full automation and high throughput.

Advantages

• Maximum production capacity
• Fully automated from mixing to packaging
• Significant cost savings per unit
• Consistent product quality and shape
• Minimal labor required once operational

Limitations

• Very high initial investment
• Requires substantial factory space
• Inflexible for frequent recipe changes
• Complex maintenance and technical support needed

Best for: Large manufacturers, commercial brands, and export-oriented soap producers

Batch Type Soap Making Machine

Processes soap in discrete batches, allowing for recipe variation.

Advantages

• Enables customization between batches (scents, colors, additives)
• Good balance of automation and flexibility
• Easier to clean and reconfigure than continuous systems
• Ideal for seasonal or limited-edition products
• Lower risk in case of batch defects

Limitations

• Downtime between batches reduces efficiency
• Lower overall output than continuous machines
• Requires manual oversight for batch transitions
• Not ideal for mass-producing a single formula

Best for: Specialty soap makers, organic brands, and companies with diverse product portfolios

Continuous Type Soap Making Machine

Operates non-stop for uninterrupted, high-volume soap production.

Advantages

• Maximum production efficiency
• No downtime between batches
• Lowest cost per unit at scale
• Consistent product uniformity
• Highly automated with minimal labor input

Limitations

• Very high capital and installation cost
• Requires large factory footprint
• Inflexible—only suitable for one formula at a time
• Long changeover time when switching products

Best for: Mass-market soap brands, industrial producers, and companies with stable, high-demand products

Machine Type	Production Scale	Automation Level	Flexibility	Ideal For
Small Scale	Low (10–100 kg/day)	Manual to Semi-Auto	High	Startups, artisans, local markets
Mid Scale	Medium (100–500 kg/day)	Semi-Automated	Medium	Growing businesses, regional sales
Large Scale	High (500+ kg/day)	Fully Automated	Low	Commercial brands, mass production
Batch Type	Variable	Semi to Fully Auto	High	Diverse product lines, custom soaps
Continuous Type	Very High	Fully Automated	Low	Single-product mass production

Expert Tip: When selecting a soap making machine, consider not only your current production needs but also your growth projections. A mid-scale batch machine often provides the best balance for businesses planning to expand while maintaining product variety.

Industrial Applications of Machines in Soap Making

Modern soap manufacturing relies heavily on specialized machinery to ensure consistency, scalability, and product quality across various types of soaps. From mass-produced bar soaps to niche medicated formulations, industrial machines streamline production, enhance safety, and meet diverse consumer and commercial demands. These systems provide precise control over chemical reactions, temperature, mixing, and packaging—critical factors in delivering reliable, high-quality soap products at scale.

Key Industrial Applications of Soap-Making Machinery

Production of Bar Soap

Industrial bar soap production utilizes automated batching and mixing systems that accurately combine lye (sodium hydroxide), water, and various oils (such as palm, coconut, or olive oil). These machines regulate temperature and agitation to facilitate saponification—the chemical reaction that turns fats into soap—ensuring uniform texture and hardness.

After saponification, the soap is passed through refining rollers and plodders to remove air pockets and homogenize the mixture. It is then stamped into consistent shapes using hydraulic presses, cooled, and packaged. This level of automation ensures each bar has identical weight, shape, and performance, making it ideal for large-scale distribution to retailers, hotels, and institutions.

Advanced systems also allow rapid changeovers between scents, colors, and additives, enabling manufacturers to produce multiple product lines efficiently without cross-contamination or downtime.

Making Liquid Soap

Liquid soap production involves a different saponification process, typically using potassium hydroxide instead of sodium hydroxide to create a soluble, gel-like product. Industrial machines precisely control the blending of oils, alkali, water, and additives under heated conditions to achieve complete dissolution and a smooth, lump-free consistency.

Modern liquid soap systems integrate inline pH sensors and viscosity monitors to maintain batch-to-batch consistency in texture and chemical balance. Once processed, the soap is filtered, cooled, and transferred to automated filling lines for bottling in various sizes.

Due to high output capacity, these machines support bulk production for commercial clients such as hospitals, schools, and retail chains. The ability to produce thousands of liters per hour makes industrial liquid soap lines essential for meeting large-scale hygiene demands.

Production of Powdered Soap

Powdered soap, commonly used in laundry detergents and industrial cleaning agents, is produced using spray-drying technology. In this process, a liquid soap base (often mixed with surfactants and builders) is atomized into fine droplets and sprayed into a hot chamber where moisture rapidly evaporates, leaving behind a light, free-flowing powder.

The entire operation is controlled by automated systems that regulate feed rate, temperature, airflow, and particle size. This ensures consistent granulometry and solubility, which are crucial for performance in washing machines and industrial applications.

Powdered soap is highly efficient for storage and transportation due to its low volume-to-cleaning-power ratio. Its uniform composition and long shelf life make it a preferred choice for institutional and commercial laundry services, where space and cost efficiency are paramount.

Medicated Soaps

Medicated soaps require strict compliance with pharmaceutical standards to ensure accurate dosing and efficacy. Industrial machines used in their production are equipped with precision metering systems that blend active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)—such as triclosan, tea tree oil, or antifungal agents—uniformly into the soap base.

These systems prevent ingredient segregation and ensure every bar delivers a consistent therapeutic dose. The controlled environment minimizes contamination risks and supports GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) compliance.

Commonly used in healthcare facilities, dermatology clinics, and pharmacies, medicated soaps are produced in large batches to meet demand for infection control and skin treatment protocols. Automated quality checks, including microbial testing and potency analysis, are integrated into the production line to guarantee safety and effectiveness.

Specialty and Niche Soaps

For artisanal or premium markets, specialized machinery enables the production of unique soaps with distinct textures, shapes, and natural ingredients. Cold-process soap machines maintain lower temperatures to preserve the integrity of essential oils, vitamins, and botanicals, enhancing the product's therapeutic and aesthetic appeal.

Extrusion and molding systems allow for intricate designs, logos, or layered effects that differentiate luxury brands on retail shelves. Compact, modular machines give small manufacturers the flexibility to produce limited batches with high customization while maintaining hygiene and repeatability.

These soaps often target eco-conscious consumers, spas, or gift markets, where perceived quality and exclusivity justify higher price points. Despite smaller output, automation ensures consistent curing times, accurate additive ratios, and professional packaging, supporting brand reputation and customer satisfaction.

Soap Type	Primary Machinery	Output Capacity	Key Advantages
Bar Soap	Mixers, Plodders, Hydraulic Presses	500–5,000 bars/hour	Consistent shape, scalable production, easy packaging
Liquid Soap	Reactor Tanks, pH Sensors, Filling Lines	1,000–10,000 liters/hour	Smooth texture, bulk distribution, hygiene compliance
Powdered Soap	Spray Dryers, Blenders, Sieving Units	500–3,000 kg/hour	Space-efficient, long shelf life, fast dissolving
Medicated Soap	Precision Dosing Systems, GMP-Compliant Lines	Variable (batch-controlled)	Uniform API distribution, regulatory compliance
Specialty Soap	Cold-Process Units, Extruders, Molds	50–500 units/hour	Custom designs, natural ingredient retention

Benefits of Industrial Soap-Making Machines

Consistency: Automated controls ensure every batch meets exact specifications for texture, scent, pH, and performance.

Scalability: Machines can be configured for small-batch artisanal runs or high-volume industrial output.

Safety: Enclosed systems reduce worker exposure to caustic chemicals like lye and minimize spill risks.

Efficiency: Reduced labor costs, faster production cycles, and minimal waste compared to manual methods.

Quality Control: Integrated sensors and testing protocols maintain compliance with health, safety, and industry standards.

Important: Proper maintenance and calibration of soap-making machinery are essential to prevent contamination, ensure accurate dosing, and extend equipment lifespan. Operators should follow manufacturer guidelines and adhere to food-grade or pharmaceutical standards where applicable. Investing in training and automation not only improves product quality but also enhances workplace safety and regulatory compliance.

Comprehensive Guide to Soap Making Machine Specifications and Features

Choosing the right soap making machine is essential for achieving consistent quality, maximizing efficiency, and scaling production—whether you're launching a small artisan brand or operating a commercial manufacturing facility. Understanding the technical specifications and functional features helps match the equipment to your production goals, ingredient types, and operational environment.

Production Capacity

Production capacity determines how much soap a machine can produce per batch or per hour. This is one of the most critical factors in selecting equipment that aligns with your business scale.

• Small-scale units: Ideal for startups, crafters, or R&D, producing 5–20 kg per batch
• Mid-range systems: Suitable for growing brands, handling 50–200 kg per cycle
• Industrial machines: Designed for high-volume output, capable of 500+ kg per hour
• Batch vs. continuous flow systems offer flexibility depending on product variety and consistency needs

Key consideration: Match capacity to current demand with room for growth to avoid over-investment or bottlenecks

Power Requirements

Soap making machines require electrical power to operate mixers, heaters, and control systems. Power needs vary significantly based on size and automation level.

• Small tabletop models typically run on standard 110–120V outlets (1–2 kW)
• Larger industrial units may require 220–480V three-phase power (5–20+ kW)
• Energy-efficient models include variable speed drives and insulated chambers to reduce consumption
• Consider backup power options for continuous operations in areas with unstable grids

Pro tip: Verify your facility’s electrical infrastructure before purchasing high-power equipment

Construction Materials

Durability and chemical resistance are paramount in soap machine construction due to exposure to caustic substances like lye (sodium hydroxide) and fatty acids.

• Stainless steel (304 or 316 grade): Most common—resists corrosion, easy to clean, and food-grade safe
• Coated carbon steel: Lower-cost alternative but less resistant to long-term alkali exposure
• Seals and gaskets made from EPDM or silicone withstand high pH and temperature fluctuations
• Polished interior surfaces prevent residue buildup and simplify sanitation

Technical note: 316 stainless steel is recommended for liquid soap or medicated formulations with added chemicals

Machine Dimensions & Footprint

The physical size of the machine impacts workspace planning, ventilation, and workflow efficiency.

• Compact benchtop units: ~24" x 18" – perfect for small labs or kitchens
• Freestanding industrial models: up to 6 ft x 4 ft, requiring dedicated floor space
• Vertical designs save floor area in space-constrained facilities
• Include clearance for loading, maintenance, and heat dissipation when planning layout

Space-saving tip: Modular or stackable systems allow phased expansion without relocating equipment

Control System & Automation

Modern soap machines come with advanced control systems that enhance precision, repeatability, and ease of use.

• Manual controls: Simple dials and switches for basic mixing and timing
• Digital PID controllers: Maintain exact temperatures during saponification
• Programmable logic controllers (PLCs): Automate full cycles including mixing, heating, and cooling
• Touchscreen interfaces store recipes and monitor batch data for quality control

Smart feature: Data logging capabilities support compliance and batch traceability for commercial operations

Warranty & Support

A strong warranty reflects manufacturer confidence and protects your investment against defects and early failures.

• Standard warranties range from 1 to 3 years on parts and labor
• Premium brands offer extended coverage (up to 5 years) on critical components like motors and tanks
• Look for responsive technical support, spare parts availability, and training resources
• Some suppliers provide on-site service or remote diagnostics

Buyer’s advice: Prioritize brands with proven after-sales support over lowest upfront cost

Key Functional Features of Soap Making Machines

• Advanced Mixing Systems: High-torque mixers with variable speed control ensure thorough blending of oils, lye, water, and additives like essential oils or exfoliants. Some models include dual-agitator designs for homogenizing thick emulsions.
• Integrated Heating Elements: Built-in heaters accelerate saponification by maintaining optimal temperatures (typically 90–110°F). Jacketed tanks provide uniform heat distribution without hot spots.
• Multi-Format Shaping Capabilities: Machines can be configured to produce solid bars via molds, liquid soap through filling systems, or powdered detergents using drying and granulation attachments.
• Scalability & Batch Consistency: Automated systems deliver identical results across batches, crucial for branding and regulatory compliance. Scale-up from prototype to production is seamless with modular designs.
• Versatile Ingredient Handling: Compatible with a wide range of raw materials including vegetable oils (olive, coconut), animal fats, synthetic surfactants, fragrances, colorants, and active ingredients for medicated or therapeutic soaps.
• Safety Features: Include emergency stop buttons, lid interlocks, overheat protection, and fume ventilation to ensure operator safety when handling caustic chemicals.

Professional Recommendation: For new entrepreneurs, consider a mid-capacity, semi-automated machine with stainless steel construction and digital controls. It balances affordability with professional-grade performance. As you scale, invest in fully automated, PLC-controlled systems with integrated heating and cooling for maximum efficiency and consistency.

Machine Type	Capacity Range	Key Features	Ideal For
Benchtop Mixer	1–10 kg/batch	Manual operation, basic heating, compact size	Artisans, hobbyists, product testing
Semi-Automatic Unit	20–100 kg/batch	Digital controls, PID heating, stainless tank	Small businesses, boutique brands
Full-Auto Production Line	200–1000+ kg/hour	PLC automation, continuous flow, CIP cleaning	Commercial manufacturers, contract producers
Liquid Soap System	50–500 L/batch	Emulsification pumps, viscosity control, filling integration	Personal care brands, liquid hand soap producers

Additional Considerations When Selecting a Soap Making Machine

• Cleaning & Maintenance: Look for CIP (Clean-in-Place) systems or easily disassembled components to reduce downtime and labor costs
• Noise Levels: Industrial mixers can generate significant noise; consider sound-dampened enclosures for shared workspaces
• Expandability: Choose machines with upgrade paths for future additions like cooling jackets or filling lines
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure equipment meets FDA, CE, or ISO standards if selling commercially
• Eco-Friendly Options: Energy-efficient motors, water recycling systems, and low-waste designs support sustainable manufacturing goals

How to Choose the Right Machine for Soap Making

Selecting the appropriate soap-making machine is a crucial decision that impacts your production efficiency, product quality, and long-term profitability. Whether you're starting a small artisanal brand or scaling up an established business, understanding the key factors in machine selection ensures you invest wisely. This comprehensive guide breaks down the essential considerations to help you choose the ideal equipment for your soap production needs.

Important Note: The wrong machine choice can lead to wasted materials, inconsistent product quality, and operational bottlenecks. Take time to assess your current and future production goals before making a purchase.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Soap Machine

1. Scale of Production

   Your monthly output requirements are the primary determinant of the machine type. Small batch machines (e.g., hand-mixing tanks or mini-extruders) are ideal for startups or craft producers making under 500 bars per month. For medium-scale operations (500–5,000 bars/month), semi-automated systems with consistent mixing and molding capabilities are recommended. High-volume producers requiring thousands of bars daily need fully automated continuous production lines with integrated mixing, extrusion, cutting, and cooling systems.

2. Type of Soap

   The formulation and consistency of your soap dictate machine compatibility. Basic cold or hot process bar soaps can be made with simple mixers and molds. For liquid soaps, you’ll need emulsification tanks, homogenizers, and filling systems. Powdered soaps require spray dryers or granulation equipment. Medicated or specialty soaps may need precise temperature control, vacuum chambers, or sterile processing environments. Ensure the machine supports your specific soap chemistry and texture requirements.

3. Budget and Return on Investment (ROI)

   Initial cost varies significantly: small manual units start around $500–$2,000, while industrial automated systems can exceed $50,000. Consider not only the purchase price but also operating costs (energy, maintenance, labor) and expected production volume. A higher upfront investment in a durable, efficient machine often pays off through reduced labor, consistent quality, and faster output. Calculate your break-even point to determine the most cost-effective option for your business model.

4. Space Requirements

   Measure your available workspace before selecting equipment. Compact tabletop mixers and molds fit in small kitchens or workshops (under 50 sq ft). Mid-sized units require dedicated production areas (100–300 sq ft) with access to utilities. Large industrial machines need high-ceilinged facilities (500+ sq ft) with reinforced flooring, proper ventilation, and plumbing connections. Don’t forget to account for storage space for raw materials, finished products, and cleaning supplies.

5. Customization and Flexibility

   Assess how frequently you plan to change formulations or product designs. Modular machines allow you to swap molds, nozzles, or mixing attachments for different shapes, colors, or fragrances. Programmable controls let you save recipes and adjust mixing speed, temperature, and cycle times. If you plan to offer diverse products, choose a system with high adaptability. Fixed-function machines are cheaper but limit your product development potential.

6. Ease of Use and Automation Level

   Consider your team’s technical skills and labor availability. Manual machines require constant supervision, physical effort, and training but offer hands-on control. Semi-automated systems reduce labor with timers and preset functions. Fully automated lines minimize human intervention, ensuring consistency and freeing staff for packaging or quality control. Automation reduces errors and increases throughput but may require technical training for operation and troubleshooting.

7. Reliability and Durability

   Look for machines built with food-grade stainless steel, corrosion-resistant components, and commercial-grade motors. Check customer reviews, warranty terms, and average lifespan. Machines from reputable manufacturers with proven track records in the cosmetics or chemical processing industry tend to offer better long-term reliability. Durable equipment reduces downtime and maintenance costs, directly impacting your production schedule and profitability.

8. Technical Support and Warranty

   Post-purchase support is critical, especially for complex systems. Choose suppliers who offer installation assistance, operator training, and accessible customer service. A minimum 1-year warranty is standard, but extended coverage (2–3 years) on critical components like motors or control panels provides added security. Availability of spare parts and local service technicians can prevent prolonged production halts during breakdowns.

Factor	Small-Scale Needs	Medium-Scale Needs	Large-Scale Needs
Production Volume	Up to 500 bars/month	500–5,000 bars/month	5,000+ bars/day
Machine Type	Manual mixer + molds	Semi-auto extruder + cutter	Full automation line
Estimated Cost	$500–$5,000	$5,000–$25,000	$25,000–$100,000+
Space Required	10–50 sq ft	50–300 sq ft	300–1,000+ sq ft
Labor Needs	1–2 people, hands-on	2–3 people, partial automation	3+ people, monitoring systems

Expert Tip: Before committing to a large investment, consider renting or leasing a machine for a trial period. This allows you to test performance, workflow integration, and maintenance needs without full financial exposure. Many suppliers offer demo units or rental programs for evaluation.

Additional Recommendations

• Always request product samples or video demonstrations from the manufacturer
• Verify compliance with local health, safety, and environmental regulations
• Plan for future scalability—choose a machine that can grow with your business
• Factor in cleaning and sanitation requirements; easy-to-clean designs reduce contamination risks
• Join soap-making communities or forums to get real-world feedback on different machines

Choosing the right soap-making machine is a strategic decision that balances immediate needs with long-term growth. By carefully evaluating your production goals, budget, and operational constraints, you can select equipment that enhances efficiency, ensures product consistency, and supports the success of your soap-making venture. When in doubt, consult with industry experts or equipment specialists to make an informed choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Soap Making Machines

Q1: What is the main job of a machine for making soap?

The primary function of a soap making machine is to automate the entire soap production process—from mixing raw ingredients to shaping and often packaging the final product. These machines blend key components such as lye (sodium hydroxide), oils, fragrances, and additives in precise ratios to ensure consistency and quality. Once the mixture reaches the desired texture, it is poured into molds where it solidifies into bars. Many advanced models also include automatic demolding, cooling, and wrapping systems.

By automating these steps, soap making machines significantly increase production efficiency, reduce labor costs, and maintain uniform product quality—making them essential for both small-scale producers and large commercial operations.

Q2: How does mixing happen in a soap making machine?

Mixing is a critical phase in soap production, and modern machines use high-performance mechanical agitators or industrial-grade mixers to ensure thorough blending. The machine combines base ingredients—such as vegetable oils, animal fats, lye solution, and water—into a homogeneous emulsion known as "trace."

These mixers are designed to operate at variable speeds and durations depending on the soap type (e.g., cold process, hot process, or melt-and-pour). Some systems incorporate temperature-controlled mixing chambers to optimize saponification—the chemical reaction that turns fats and lye into soap. This precision prevents separation, ensures even distribution of additives (like essential oils or exfoliants), and enhances the final product’s texture and performance.

Q3: What role does heating play in the soap making process?

Heating plays a vital role, especially in hot process soap making and liquid soap formulation. Machines equipped with integrated heating elements raise the temperature of the soap mixture to accelerate saponification, reduce processing time, and achieve a more stable end product.

Precise digital thermostats allow operators to maintain optimal temperatures (typically between 80°C and 100°C) throughout the reaction phase. Even heat distribution prevents scorching or uneven curing, which could compromise quality. For liquid soaps, prolonged heating with constant stirring ensures complete dissolution of potassium hydroxide and oils, resulting in a smooth, clear, and viscous product ready for dilution and bottling.

Q4: What are the common types of soap that these machines can produce?

Most industrial and semi-automatic soap making machines are engineered to handle three primary categories:

• Bar Soaps: The most common output, produced using compression or extrusion methods. Machines can create various shapes, sizes, and densities, including glycerin, natural, or medicated bars.
• Liquid Soaps: Designed for hand wash, body wash, or household cleaners. These require specialized reactors with heating and prolonged agitation to form potassium-based soaps (soft soaps).
• Medicated & Specialty Soaps: Machines can be calibrated to incorporate active ingredients like triclosan, tea tree oil, salicylic acid, or moisturizers for therapeutic or dermatological use.

While powdered soaps (such as laundry detergents) are less commonly produced on standard soap lines, some multi-functional systems can adapt with spray-drying attachments or granulation modules.

Q5: Can soap making machines easily switch between different soap types?

Yes, modern soap making machines are highly adaptable and designed for versatility. Most models feature programmable settings that allow quick transitions between soap formulations with minimal downtime.

Operators can adjust parameters such as mixing speed, temperature profiles, mold types, and cycle times via a control panel or touchscreen interface. Quick-release components and modular attachments (e.g., different nozzles for liquid soap or molds for bar soap) further enhance flexibility.

This adaptability enables manufacturers to run small batches of specialty soaps alongside large-volume production runs—ideal for businesses offering diverse product lines without investing in multiple dedicated machines.

Q6: What advantages do larger soap making machines offer over smaller ones?

Larger, industrial-grade soap making machines provide several key benefits for commercial producers:

• Higher Output: Capable of producing hundreds or even thousands of soap units per hour, supporting mass-market distribution.
• Full Automation: Integrates mixing, heating, molding, cooling, demolding, and packaging into a single continuous line, reducing manual labor and human error.
• Energy & Cost Efficiency: Lower per-unit production costs due to optimized energy use, reduced waste, and economies of scale.
• Consistent Quality: Advanced sensors and feedback systems monitor viscosity, temperature, and pH levels to ensure every batch meets strict quality standards.
• Scalability: Ideal for growing businesses aiming to expand production capacity without proportional increases in labor or floor space.

While initial investment is higher, the long-term return on investment makes large machines the preferred choice for established brands and contract manufacturers.

Q7: Is maintaining a soap making machine difficult?

No, maintenance is generally straightforward and user-friendly. Most machines are built with stainless steel or corrosion-resistant materials to withstand exposure to alkaline substances and moisture.

Regular upkeep includes:

• Cleaning mixing chambers and molds after each use to prevent residue buildup.
• Inspecting seals, gaskets, and moving parts for wear and tear.
• Lubricating motors and conveyors as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Calibrating sensors and control systems periodically for accuracy.

Many manufacturers provide detailed maintenance schedules, instructional videos, and customer support. Additionally, most industrial soap machines come with warranties covering parts and labor for 1–3 years, and replacement components are typically readily available. With proper care, these machines can operate reliably for over a decade.