Mixing vessel

The mixing vessel forms the central process space for holding the material to be mixed. Its geometry is designed so that the rotating mixing tool can mix the entire volume thoroughly and reproducibly. The shape of the container influences the flow pattern and the design of the mixing tools.

Mixing containers can be stationary. One or more mixing tools rotate inside them. Such devices are referred to as compulsory mixers. The tool transfers mechanical energy directly into the bulk material and generates defined shear and displacement flows.

There are also free-fall mixers. Here, the mixing container itself is the moving element. It is mounted horizontally or at an angle and is set in rotation by an electric motor.

Gravity and the relative movements in the mixing chamber result in gentle, largely shear-free mixing. Free-fall mixers can also be designed as horizontal pipes. IBC bulk containers can also be used as container free-fall mixers. The container is securely fixed in a device and rotated around a horizontal axis. In addition to rotation, other forms of movement such as tumbling or swivelling can take place to intensify the mixing process.

During continuous mixing, the product flows continuously through the mixing chamber. In horizontally aligned mixing vessels, the mixing tools also perform a conveying function. They transport the mixture axially through the apparatus, while radial and tangential circulation ensure homogeneity.

In amixon^® mixers, the mixing vessel is usually an upright cylinder. Alternatively, it can be conical in shape or consist of two cylinders that merge into one another. amixon^® also manufactures hollow sphere mixers. In this design, an internal hollow sphere forms the mixing chamber in which a helical mixing tool rotates.

Another type of mixing vessel uses a cylindrical mixing chamber that rotates around a vertical axis. Rotating or static mixing tools protrude into the vessel from above. This design also exists in an inclined form and is often used for pasty bulk materials. Here, a lot of energy is input for deagglomeration.

Forced mixers are usually filled from above. The product is discharged via a discharge fitting in the bottom of the mixing vessel, which is typically designed as a flap or slide.