Mixer international

Types of mixer internationals

A mixer International is an equipment used to combine and uniformly mix two or more components with different physical and chemical properties. According to the template provided, the types of mixer internationals can be classified based on the following:

• Mixing method: They can be either static or dynamic mixers. International static/mixer pipes are used to blend fluids flowing through pipelines. Blending is achieved by inserting baffles into the pipe. On the other hand, dynamic mixers have moving parts that actively mix the material, usually incorporating an assembly fitted inside the mixer.
• Action on the material: Mixer Internationals can be kneaders, grinders, or stirrers. Kneaders are used to mix thick and viscous materials. They combine pressure and shear forces to evenly mix items that have low fluidity at high temperatures. Rotary shearing blades are employed by grinders to break down solid materials into smaller particles and more uniform sizes. Rotary stirrers are used to mix liquids and low-viscosity materials. An electric motor rotates a stirring paddle which moves the material around.
• The geometry of the mixer: Mixer Internationals can be paddle, propeller, or ribbon blenders. Primarily used to mix solids with moisture or liquid additives in the form of vertical and horizontal cylinders, paddle and propeller blenders are used to mix viscous liquids.
• Orientation of the mixer shaft: It can be a top or bottom entry mixer. Top entry mixers are installed from the top side of the tank or vessel, while bottom entry are installed from the bottom side.
• The type of materials being blended: Powder mixers are generally used to mix powders such as cement, lime, and gypsum. Moreover, concrete mixers are generally used to mix construction material such as cement, water, aggregate, and additives to ensure uniformity. Besides, a food mixer is used to process and combine food ingredients such as dough, batter, and pulp. An emulsifying mixer combines oil, water, and other ingredients to make emulsions like mayonnaise and salad dressings.
• Industrial Application: Chemical mixer internationals are used to process and mix chemicals, additives, and formulations. Paint mixers combine pigments, solvents, and additives to create uniform paint formulations. Biological mixers are used in medical laboratories for biological samples and reactions.

Specification and maintenance of mixer internationals

Specification

• Capacity

  Mixers are available in various capacities, from compact bench-scale units of a few liters to large industrial-scale mixers with capacities of several thousand liters.

• Mixing speed and power

  Mixers usually have adjustable speeds and rotation. The speed of the mixer can reach about 6,000~18,000 rpm; the mixing power is about 1.1~2.2KW or more, which is enough to mix and stir various foods and materials.

• Blade/Impeller design

  Diverse blade or impeller designs are suited for specific mixing requirements, including shearing, blending, emulsifying, and more.

• Control system

  Industrial food mixers include temperature, time, pressure, and other factors. Besides, some mixers are also equipped with an automatic control system that can realize the whole process of mixing operation automatically.

• Materials and build quality

  Food-grade mixer internationals are manufactured from stainless steel or other materials to withstand the demands of the food industry, including corrosion resistance, ease of cleaning, and hygienic design.

• Safety features

  Industrial food mixers generally have some inherent safety characteristics, such as overload protection, emergency stop switch, and other performance characteristics, to ensure safe operating procedures.

Maintenance

• Cleaning

  After each use, thoroughly clean the mixing kettles and accessories with warm, soapy water to prevent the residue from remaining in the mixing kettles. Pay attention to clean and wipe the surfaces, grooves, and corners of the mixing blades to avoid bacterial growth and contamination.

• Inspection and removal

  Regularly check the appearance of the food mixer for any signs of damage or wear. If there are damages such as cracks, off, or wear, they should be repaired or replaced in time to ensure safe operation and mixing effect. In addition, regularly check the mixer parts such as blades, bearings, and seals, remove the debris and residues, and keep them clean and lubricated.

• Lubrication

  Parts with frequent activity or friction should be lubricated periodically to ensure smooth operation and reduce wear.

• Pay attention to electrical components

  Maintain and clean the electrical components and circuits of food mixers. Ensure the electrical connections are firm and reliable, and keep the electrical boxes and components clean and dry.

Usage scenarios of mixer internationals

Mixer internationals are used in several industries. Here are some ways companies use the machines to mix their materials.

• Food processing: Food factories use mixer internationals to mix cake batters, doughs, sauces, chopped ingredients, confectionery components, custards, pastry mixes, fillings, etc. The kind of mixer international used for each of these applications will depend on the consistency of the batter or mix at hand. For instance, a planetary mixer will do an excellent job mixing cake batters and confectionery components, while a spiral mixer will be used for thicker doughs.
• Construction: Construction companies use heavy-duty mixer internationals to mix cement and concrete at large volumes, thereby improving the material's consistency and quality. Construction mixer internationals are equipped with powerful motors capable of mixing heavy-duty materials like concrete. They also have different speed settings, which allow operators to use the appropriate speed for the exact material to be mixed.
• Beauty and cosmetic: The beauty industry relies heavily on mixer internationals to create smooth and homogeneous mixtures for various products like moisturizers, creams, lotions, and make-up items. Because the beauty and cosmetic industry has very high standards for products to be used on the skin and face, mixer companies like Gemfant often include in their product descriptions that their beauty mixer internationals come with anti-bacterial properties. This is to ensure that products made with the mixer are safe for use.
• Chemical processing: Mixer production companies looking to sell their products in the chemical processing industry will ensure their mixers have high corrosion resistance and durability. Chemical processing industries will use mixer internationals to mix chemicals, pigments, dyes, and other materials like adhesives and sealants. Products like the vibrant color sealant will have to be mixed using mixer internationals to achieve the desired color seal.
• Pharmaceuticals: The pharmaceutical industry often utilizes mixer internationals to achieve uniformity in blending powdered ingredients for tablets, capsules, and formulations. The has to be homogeneity and consistency when mixing pharmaceutical products. Therefore, the mixer is made with precision engineering and hygienic design to ensure accurate mixing without compromising the product.
• Lubrication oil: Oil companies use mixer internationals to produce lubricating oil. The lubricant oils must be well-mixed so they can perform their functions well when used in cars or machines.

How to choose a good international mixer

• Mixer's scale

  International mixing machines are suitable for different scales. According to the applied industries, they can be divided into three mixing machines: small mixers for home use, commercial mixers, and industrial mixers. For example, flour mixers for bakeries are considered a commercial mixer, while cement mixers would be an international industrial mixer. Big-scale factories use them. Pay attention to what kind of scale the mixer is suitable for.

• Speed control

  Some items an international mixer might need to mix require fast or slow speeds. Selecting a mixer with speed control is essential, as it will allow business owners to change speeds depending on the product being mixed. Moreover, international mixers with different speed settings can provide a more consistent and better-quality mixture.

• Attachment

  An international mixer usually comes with various attachments. Each attachment is suitable for a specific mixing task. For example, a paddle attachment is best used for general mixing, a dough hook for kneading dough, and a whisk attachment for whipping ingredients. Selecting a mixer with attachments for an item's specific needs is essential.

• Product volume

  The size of the mixing bowl or container that comes with the mixer is called the product volume. It indicates how much mixture the machine can hold at once. For businesses, choosing a mixer with a suitable product volume is vital to ensure efficiency in the production process.

• Durability

  An international mixer works 24/7 in most commercial settings. Overseas buyers should get a mixer that is built to last with quality, durable materials. It should also be easy to maintain and repair, as this will keep long-term operating costs low.

• Safety features

  An international mixer with safety features is essential for protecting the staff and company. Safety features include a thermal overload protector, which stops the machine from overheating, or a locked lid during operation. Selecting a mixer with these features is a smart and safe choice for the workplace.

Q&A

Q1: What types of food does an industrial food mixer process when mixing under heavy loads?

A1: Industrial food mixers are used in bakeries and restaurants, usually mixing dough for pizza and bread, which is a heavy load. They also whip cream and egg whites, mix cake and cookie batter, and produce emulsions like mayonnaise.

Q2: How long can industrial mixer's run continuously?

A2: Most industrial mixers can run continuously for 3 to 4 hours. Heavy-duty models run for 6 to 8 hours, while some specialized mixers for 24 hours or more without stopping. Their parts are designed for that long.

Q3: Do industrial mixers have safety features?

A3: Yes, industrial food mixers have safety features like interlocks that prevent them from operating unless the bowl is in place and guards are added. Overload protection is another feature. Some mixers with a fragile motor have thermal overloads that detect overheating and shut down the mixer.

Q4: Can an industrial mixer emulsify and homogenize?

A4: No, an industrial mixer cannot perform emulsification and homogenization. It is mixing different liquids and solids to form a stable mixture and breaking down fat droplets to produce fine particles. Homogenization requires high-pressure equipment, not mixers.