Slicer spare parts: original or compatible?

For a meat slicer, a compatible (aftermarket) part is perfectly fine for wear parts that are chosen by size, such as blades, belts, feet, knobs and sharpening stones, as long as every dimension matches. For electrical and safety components (switches, capacitors, motors, microswitches, electronic boards, blade cover and blade guard ring) you should fit the original (OEM) part or a part stated as equivalent for that exact model, because the machine's CE conformity depends on them. Either way, you always start from the same place: the brand, model and serial number on the data plate.

This guide explains what "original", "compatible" and "universal" really mean, which commercial slicer spare parts you can choose freely and which you cannot, and how to identify the right part for RGV, Berkel, Sirman and Fama slicers without ordering twice.

Original, compatible and universal spare parts: the differences

These three words appear in almost every slicer parts catalogue, but they mean different things.

• Original (OEM): the part supplied by the machine's manufacturer or its official supplier, with the part number listed in that model's spare parts catalogue. It is designed and tested together with the machine.
• Compatible (aftermarket): made by a third party to replace a specific part on one or more models, with the same dimensions and function. Blades sold "for RGV, FAC, Sirman and compatibles" are a typical example: the same disc fits several brands because the mounting dimensions are identical.
• Universal: a generic component not designed for any particular machine, which has to be adapted or is chosen on just a couple of characteristics (for example any "4-contact" switch). This is the category that needs the most care, because "it fits" does not mean "it is suitable".

Many part names (gauge plate, slice deflector, sharpener housing, blade cover tie rod, product pusher) are explained in our guide to the terms used to identify the right spare part: knowing them helps a lot when you are looking for a part in an exploded view.

When a compatible slicer spare part is fine

Aftermarket parts make sense for replacement parts that work "by size" and play no role in the safety devices. What matters here is an exact dimensional match and good material quality, not the logo.

• Blades: a compatible blade with the same diameter, centre hole, number and position of holes and height as the original fits and works the same way. For materials (C45 for light use, 100Cr6 for heavy use) see our guide on which slicer blade material and type to choose.
• Belts: flat, toothed and V-belts are identified by their code and dimensions (width, length, number of ribs or teeth). If the code matches, the belt is interchangeable.
• Feet, knobs and handles: what counts is diameter, thread and screw length.
• Sharpening stones: chosen by diameter, thickness, bore and grit (coarse for sharpening, fine for deburring).
• Bearings and bushings: standard components, identified by the code printed on the ring or by their dimensions.

There are also aftermarket ranges dedicated to one brand, such as our Berkel compatible spare parts, which are especially useful for older or discontinued models where the original is no longer available.

When you need the original part: safety and CE conformity

A commercial slicer placed on the EU market is designed under the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, which will be replaced by the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 from 20 January 2027. The harmonised standard for slicing machines with a powered circular blade larger than 150 mm in diameter is EN 1974 (revised in 2020). It sets the safety and hygiene requirements and explicitly lists, among the machine's parts, the blade cover, blade guard ring, sharpener, carriage, product pusher and electrical control components.

The new Regulation defines a "substantial modification" as a physical or digital change, not foreseen by the manufacturer, that creates a new hazard or increases an existing risk: whoever makes it takes on the manufacturer's obligations. On top of that, in Italy any business with employees must keep its work equipment safe through proper maintenance (Legislative Decree 81/2008, art. 71). So for the components below the rule is simple: original, or a part the supplier states is equivalent for that exact model.

Electrical components

• Switches and push-button panels: besides switching the slicer on and off, on many models they stop it from restarting by itself after a power cut (no-volt release coil). A universal switch without that function removes a safeguard. One example is the 6-contact switch with LED fitted to several RGV slicers.
• Capacitors: capacitance (µF) and voltage must match the old capacitor or the motor plate. A different value affects starting and can overheat the winding; see for instance the 8 µF capacitor for 230 V motors.
• Motors: power, voltage (230 V single-phase or 400 V three-phase), speed, flange and shaft must match the model.
• Microswitches and sensors: where fitted, they check that guards or moving parts are in place. Never bypass them or replace them with a different type.
• Electronic boards: specific to brand, model and often production series.

Blade guards

The blade cover, blade guard ring, blade cover tie rod, carriage hand guard and sharpener guards are safety devices in their own right. They must have the same geometry as the original: a ring that leaves more of the edge exposed, or a blade cover that does not lock properly, means the machine is no longer compliant.

To work out which electrical part has failed before you order it, see slicer won't start or keeps stopping.

Table: original or compatible, part by part

How to find the right spare part for your slicer

1. Read the machine's data plate

The data plate, usually on the back or under the base, shows brand, model, serial number, year, voltage and power. Take a photo of it and keep it to hand when you order: the serial number tells apart different series of the same model, which sometimes use different parts.

2. Check the exploded view or technical sheet

The exploded view is the drawing with every part numbered. Some manufacturers leave it out of the manual: RGV, for example, refers owners to its website for exploded views. For the most common models we have put together slicer spare parts technical sheets that link every part to its catalogue code, including the RGV Lusso 250 parts sheet and the Berkel Home Line HL200 and HL250 parts sheet, plus sheets for the Sirman Mirra and Fama gravity slicers.

3. Measure the blade: what 250/40/3/210/17.5 means

In our catalogue blades are described by five measurements in millimetres, in the order E/F/V/I/H. Take the 250/40/3/210/17.5 C45 blade:

• E = 250: outside diameter of the blade;
• F = 40: centre hole diameter;
• V = 3: number of fixing screw holes;
• I = 210: inner size, i.e. the diameter of the area under the blade cover;
• H = 17.5: blade height (overall thickness).

If even one measurement does not match, do not fit the blade: a different centre hole will not sit true on the hub, and a different inner size leaves an abnormal gap to the guard ring. Remember that a blade sharpened many times loses a few millimetres of diameter: measure the centre hole, holes and height, which do not change, and take the nominal diameter from the data plate or the technical sheet.

RGV, Berkel, Sirman and Fama spare parts

Most searches concern four brands, each with its own section in our catalogue:

• RGV spare parts: slicers from 195 to 370, Duetto Plus, graters and vacuum sealers.
• Berkel spare parts: BS932/933, Home Line, Futura and Premiere models.
• Sirman spare parts: slicers, cutters, meat mincers and graters.
• Fama spare parts: gravity slicers, meat mincers, graters and vegetable cutters.

Spare part ordering checklist

1. A photo of the data plate showing brand, model, serial number and voltage.
2. A photo of the part to be replaced, including any printed codes.
3. The part's position in the exploded view or the model's technical sheet.
4. For blades, belts and stones: every dimension, not just the diameter.
5. For electrical parts: the rated values (µF, V, W, number of contacts).
6. If the part is a safety device: original or model-specific only.
7. If the job involves the motor, wiring or guards and you lack experience, leave it to a technician.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I find RGV slicer spare parts?

In our RGV spare parts section, organised by model (195, 220, 250, 275, 300, 350, 370 and the Ausonia, Mary and Duetto Plus ranges). If you are not sure of the model, start from the data plate and the matching technical sheet.

Does a compatible blade cut as well as the original?

If all five measurements match and the material suits your workload, the blade fits and works the same way. Cutting quality then depends mostly on sharpening and on the condition of the blade guard ring.

What does 250/40/3 mean in a slicer blade name?

250 mm diameter, 40 mm centre hole, 3 fixing holes. The last two figures of the full code give the inner size (under the blade cover) and the blade height.

Can I fit a universal switch to my slicer?

It is not advisable. Many slicer switches have a coil that prevents restarting after a power cut, and a generic switch may not. Use the original or one stated as equivalent for your model.

Where can I find the exploded view of my slicer?

In the instruction manual or on the manufacturer's website. For several RGV, Berkel, Sirman and Fama models you can use our spare parts technical sheets, which also give each part's catalogue code.

Who should replace electrical parts?

Blades, belts and stones are jobs a careful user can do. Motors, capacitors, boards and switches need electrical skills, and a business with employees must make sure its equipment stays safe after maintenance.

Conclusion

Compatible for what is chosen by size, original for what protects the operator: it is the simplest rule for spending wisely without compromising safety. If you are unsure about a part or would rather have the job done for you, in Rome and Lazio you can rely on our slicer repair and service.