Designed for automatic ingredient additions and high-speed mixing, the pictured Solids/Liquid Injection Manifold (SLIM) Mixer is piped to a 400-gallon jacketed tank and mounted on a compact skid. Flow meters, load cells, solenoid valves, level sensors and thermocouples are all integrated into a PLC Recipe Control Panel. Each ingredient addition and each step in the mix, drain and clean cycles are pre-programmed so that mixer speed, mixing time, temperature set-point, composition and batch weight are accurately replicated and recorded in every run.

The SLIM Mixer works by pumping liquid from the tank while simultaneously drawing powders from a stainless steel hopper. As the liquid stream enters the rotor/stator assembly, it immediately encounters the powder injection at the high shear zone. The resulting mixture is expelled through the stator openings at high velocity and recirculated back into the tank. In just a few short turnovers, solids are completely dissolved or brought down to the desired particle size.

Compared to traditional batch mixing, the automated SLIM skid system can cut process times by 80% or more. By introducing solids sub-surface where they are instantly subjected to vigorous agitation, issues like floating powders, excessive dusting and formation of stubborn agglomerates are eliminated. It allows manufacturers to achieve consistent product quality in a very repeatable and cost-efficient manner.