- The combination of a tank with an agitator and an inline high-shear homogenizer is often seen in processes where initial mixing and agitation are required in the tank, followed by further homogenization and particle size reduction using the high shear homogenizer in the pipeline.
- The tank with agitator provides initial mixing, ensuring uniform distribution of components within the liquid.
- The inline homogenizer further enhances homogeneity by reducing particle size and promoting finer emulsions or dispersions.
- The combination of agitation and high-shear homogenization results in a more consistent and higher-quality end product with reduced variations in particle size and distribution.
COMPONENTS AND FEATURES:
-
Mixing Vessel:
- The primary vessel for holding materials is often equipped with a bottom homogenizer. This vessel may have a conical or dished bottom to facilitate effective mixing and draining.
-
Inline Homogenizer:
- An inline emulsification system usually consists of a high-shear mixer or emulsifier positioned along the processing pipeline. This component creates stable emulsions by reducing droplet size and promoting thorough mixing of immiscible liquids.
-
Agitation Systems:
- Agitators or impellers promote overall mixing and prevent sedimentation. Mechanical agitator, which can be a propeller, turbine, paddle, or anchor-type, depending on the application requirements.
-
Variable Speed Control:
- Adjustable speed settings for the homogenizer, inline emulsifier, and other agitators to cater to different viscosities and material characteristics.
-
Material Handling Systems:
- Systems for the controlled addition of raw materials into the mixing vessel may involve pumps, metering devices, and automated feeding systems.
-
Instrumentation and Control Systems:
- Sophisticated control systems monitor and control parameters such as temperature, pressure, and mixing speed, ensuring precision in the processing.
-
Heat Transfer Equipment:
- Heat exchangers or jacketed vessels to control the temperature of the process when necessary.
-
Cleaning-in-Place (CIP) Systems:
- Automated systems for cleaning the equipment, ensuring hygiene, and preventing cross-contamination between batches.
-
Material Compatibility:
- The use of construction materials that are compatible with the processed substances, often involving stainless steel or other corrosion-resistant alloys.
-
Safety Systems:
-
- Emergency shutdown systems, pressure relief valves, and protective measures to ensure operator safety.
APPLICATIONS:
-
Pharmaceuticals:
Homogenization of drug formulations, and creation of stable emulsions for injectable drugs.
-
Food and Beverage:
Production of stable emulsions, dispersion of additives, and reduction of particle size in various food products.
-
Cosmetics:
Homogenization of cosmetic creams, lotions, and emulsions.
-
Chemical Industry:
Mixing and homogenizing of chemicals, production of stable dispersions.
-
Biotechnology:
Cell disruption for the extraction of intracellular components, and homogenization of biological samples.
The combination of agitation and high-shear homogenization ensures consistent product characteristics, crucial in industries like pharmaceuticals and food production.
