Turbulence intensity

The turbulence intensity in powder mixing describes the degree of swirling of powder particles. It is a measure of the intensity of the disordered particle motion in the mixing chamber. High turbulence intensity leads to rapid mixing, but also to increased dust generation and particle stress.

Low turbulence intensity corresponds to an ordered shear flow. The particles move predominantly along defined flow paths. This leads to low-dust operation and reduced breakage of sensitive particles.

The turbulence intensity is determined by the geometry of the mixing tool, the rotational speed, the fill level, and the product properties. Cutting rotors and high-speed tools generate high turbulence intensities. Mixing screws and convective bulk material flows, on the other hand, generate a low turbulence intensity that enables gentle product transport.