Features to Look For in an Industrial Mixer
In a world of mass manufacturing and complex mixing processes, many features are essential when purchasing an industrial mixer. Depending on the industry, these features can include safety features, a bowl scraper, gear or variable-speed drives, and programmable instrumentation. In addition, you can specify other features, such as a unique lining material or extruder feed. Other options include an agglomerator, coater, milling capability, or granulator.
Bowl scraper
An industrial mixer can be difficult to use if the bowl is large. In addition, the heavy-duty mixing bowl can be difficult to scrape while the machine runs. Moreover, continuous scraping can be time-consuming and cause your final product to contain too much flour. An industrial mixer should have a bowl scraper to avoid these problems. This tool is used to remove excess batter and clean the mixing bowl. It is also used to stir ingredients in the mixing bowl.
The scraper may perform additional functions, such as cleaning the bowl. Generally, scraping edges are pressed against the mixing bowl’s interior through the mandrel’s concave shape. The scraping edge is held in intimate contact with the wall of the mixing bowl by elastomeric. The scraper’s boot has a similar cross-section and sufficient friction to keep the mandrel in position while mixing.
Gear drive
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty industrial mixer, you’ll want to look into a gear drive. While belt-driven mixers are cheaper and easier to install, they’re not as reliable. They’re also more likely to break down or loosen over time, resulting in less power and a weaker rotation. In addition, gear-driven mixers typically require more frequent repair and maintenance. Globe Food Equipment offers both types of mixers.
A Falk RAM mixer gear drive is a high-quality gear reducer for various mixing applications. This gear-driven mixer features a C-Face motor adaptor, a configurable mounting system, and no-leak drywall to isolate the output shaft from the oil sump. It can be used for side or top-entry mixing. It is also available with a high-temperature oil-resistant bearing.
Variable speed drive
An industrial mixer’s control system includes a variable-speed drive. The drive motor’s speed can be adjusted between low and high speeds using a timer control 76. A timer control enables the mixer’s operator to implement multiple speed settings. When the bowl receiving portion 20 is raised, the sensor switch S1 activates the mixing mechanism. Upon receiving the signal, the mixer’s control system transmits a run signal to the drive assembly.
Commercial kitchens operating on oil rigs or ships might want to consider a marine-grade model, including tamper-proof screws and a power switch lockout. Unfortunately, these custom packages require additional fees. But if a commercial mixer is a right choice, a variable-speed drive can significantly improve the productivity of your kitchen.
Safety features
When choosing a mixer, finding one with the right safety features is essential. During the mixing process, a worker’s hand, clothing, or utensils may contact the rotating parts. Several incidents have occurred where a worker’s apron, gloves, or tie entangled in the machinery. In addition, utensils have come into contact with rotating parts and been ejected. While it’s unlikely that a worker will come in contact with these parts, it is vital to ensure they are properly guarded against the risks.
Before beginning mixing operations, always read the user’s manual and lock the locking wheels. Mixers use a lot of power and high speeds. If you plan to mix flammable substances, ensure the mixing drum is far away from water or other liquids. Electricity is dangerous, so always keep a safe distance from it. A good rule of thumb is to keep electrical equipment out of reach of children and animals. Having a second person present while mixing chemicals is always a good idea.
Fluid behavior
The Couette analogy concept has been used to describe the geometry of complex mixers and was successfully applied to a helical ribbon impeller by Choplin. Choplin developed an autoclave fitted with a helical ribbon impeller and a torque sensor to calibrate the device with different fluids. Then, using a numerical approach and geometric constants, Choplin developed and applied a Couette analogy concept to industrial mixing systems.
Shear-thinning is characteristic of most non-Newtonian fluids. Shear-thinning fluids exhibit a vanishing viscosity in the region of the mixing impeller. The viscosity curve shows that the amount of non-Newtonian fluid varies with the rotational speed of the mixer.
