An auger is the screw-shaped part inside a slow (masticating) juicer that crushes and presses fruits and vegetables to extract juice. It turns slowly, usually around 40–110 RPM, compared with thousands of RPM in a centrifugal juicer. The auger’s design, material and orientation decide how well a juicer handles leafy greens, hard roots and soft fruit.
Quick answer: The auger is the rotating screw in a masticating juicer. Single-auger juicers (vertical or horizontal) are the most common and versatile. Twin-gear juicers use two interlocking gears instead and are best for greens. Look for an auger made from a strong, BPA-free plastic such as Ultem or Tritan, or stainless steel.
How an Auger Works
- Produce drops into the chute and is caught by the auger’s spiral threads.
- As the auger turns, it crushes the produce against a screen or chamber wall.
- Juice flows through the fine screen; dry pulp is pushed out of a separate outlet.
- Because it turns slowly, it creates little heat and foam, which helps juice keep its color and flavor longer.
Types of Augers
| Type | How it works | Best for | Trade-offs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horizontal single auger | Auger lies flat and pushes produce forward | Leafy greens, wheatgrass, nut butters | Small chute, more chopping |
| Vertical single auger | Auger stands upright; gravity feeds produce | Fruit, mixed juices, small kitchens | Can struggle with stringy celery unless cut |
| Twin gear (dual auger) | Two interlocking gears grind produce | Greens and fibrous vegetables, high yield | Slower, heavier, more expensive |
| Wide-chute vertical | Large auger with a cutting blade on top | Whole apples, less prep | Higher price |
For a deeper comparison of machines, see twin gear juicers, vertical juicers and the 3 major types of juicers.
Single Auger vs Twin Gear
| Single auger | Twin gear | |
|---|---|---|
| Yield on greens | Good | Excellent |
| Yield on soft fruit | Good | Fair |
| Speed | Faster | Slower |
| Cleaning | Easier | More parts |
| Price | Lower to mid | Higher |
Auger Materials
- Ultem (PEI): a very strong, heat-resistant engineering plastic used in many premium juicers. Often described as several times stronger than standard plastics.
- Tritan and other BPA-free plastics: common, durable and affordable.
- Stainless steel: used in some twin-gear juicers (for example Angel juicers). Very durable and easy to keep hygienic. Learn more in our Angel juicer FAQ.
Whatever the material, check that it is BPA-free; see what is BPA?.
Why the Auger Matters When Buying
- Speed (RPM): slower generally means less heat and foam; most slow juicers run between about 40 and 110 RPM.
- Warranty: quality brands often give long motor warranties and separate, shorter warranties on the auger and screens.
- Reverse function: lets you unjam fibrous produce by turning the auger backwards.
- Chute size: larger chutes save prep time but need a stronger auger.
Ready to choose? Compare models in our best masticating juicers, best juicers for greens and masticating vs centrifugal guides.
How to Clean and Care for an Auger
- Rinse the auger and screen straight after juicing, before pulp dries.
- Use the brush that came with the juicer on the screen mesh.
- Soak in warm water with a little vinegar monthly to remove mineral build-up.
- Check for cracks or worn threads; a damaged auger lowers yield and can break.
See our step-by-step how to wash a juicer and how to disassemble and assemble a juicer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an auger in a juicer?
It is the slow-turning screw in a masticating juicer that crushes and presses produce to extract juice.
Is a single auger or twin gear better?
Single augers are more versatile and easier to clean. Twin-gear juicers give higher yields from greens but are slower and pricier.
What RPM is best for a slow juicer?
Most slow juicers run between about 40 and 110 RPM. Lower speeds create less heat and foam, but design matters as much as speed.
Can an auger be replaced?
Yes, most brands sell replacement augers. Check your model number before ordering.
