Abstract: In a mixing machine having a cylindrical mixing chamber in which a centrifuging agitator coaxially rotates on a horizontal axis, an inlet duct for dry mix material and liquid curves downwardly and towards one end wall of the chamber and an outlet duct for mixture curves downward and away from said end wall. Material to be mixed thus enters the chamber in substantially horizontal flow through an inlet port in said end wall, all portions of said port being spaced radially inwardly from the cylindrical chamber wall and below the level of the chamber axis. Mixture leaves the chamber in substantially horizontal flow through an outlet port wholly spaced below the inlet port and extending down to the level of the bottom of the chamber. Centrifuging action maintains a pressure difference between the ports that assures fast movement of materials through the mixing chamber to prevent plugging of the machine when mashed potato mix is used.

Abstract: A head for a beverage mixing and dispensing machine comprises a block having bores that define a water inlet connectable with a source of pressurized water, a concentrate inlet connectable with a substantially unpressurized concentrate source, and a venturi aspirator. Mixed water and concentrate flow from the aspirator to a holding chamber in the block that opens downwardly to an outlet spout. A recirculation passage in the block brings mixed liquid back to the aspirator from the holding chamber. Proportioning of concentrate to water is adjusted by a needle valve controlling communication between the holding chamber and the recirculation passage. The head block is readily removably locked to a cabinet that accommodates ducts and control mechanism.