MIXERS | MACHINERY
Mixing things up
Mixing equipment manufacturers are looking to improve up-time while technology is in development aiming to lift distributive mixing. Jennifer Markarian reports
Mixing is key for many applications in compound and masterbatch production so container mixers, high intensity mixers, continuous mixers and even static mixers are important pieces of equipment. While the basic mixing function remains fairly consistent, equipment suppliers have been improving cleanability and productivity, while the addition of various sensors and control systems aims to enable predictive maintenance and remote monitoring — a move in part a response to the global pandemic. Looking first at the commercial side of the mixing business, Germany-based Zeppelin Systems acquired MTI Mischtechnik in January 2021, bringing together the MTI and Henschel- Mixers lines of heating, cooling, and universal mixers for plastics processing. The two companies had largely served different markets in terms of geography and technology, according to Zeppelin, but as part of combined entity will now be able to exploit synergies in R&D. The company is also planning to set up spare parts stock in the US to allow direct spare parts supply in the US within 24 hours. In technology terms, Zeppelin Systems
Sales Director Mixing Technology, Dr Stephan Poller highlights the attributes of its CMQ container mixer, which has been designed to address the key needs of blending operations for plastics compounds and masterbatch- es, including productivity and fast cleaning for high machine availability. “The patented mixing tool guarantees high colour strength through high
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dispersion [using an] airfoil mixing arm with winglets [for] fast, effective homogenisation,” he says. “The combination of flat panel mixing head and airfoil mixing tool with high bottom and wall clearance reduces cleaning times by up to 80% compared to conventional container mixers,” Poller adds. He says that the user can easily access all areas of the mixer without having to dismantle the attachments and the tool. In addition, different containers can be used for different batch sizes. Poller says that predictive maintenance is also an
area of development. The ability to predict and plan maintenance can eliminate sudden malfunctions and help to minimise downtime and improve productivity. He says Zepplin’s mixers use accelera- tion sensors in the bearings that can be used to provide an early warning sign of potential required maintenance. In addition, sensors located in the air-flushed shaft seals monitor air volume and warn users when sealing rings need to be replaced.
Flexibility demands Key demands for container mixers in blending operations for plastic compounds
IMAGE: MTI/ZEPPELIN SYSTEMS
Left: A Flex-Line heating cooling mixer from MTI, which is now part of Zeppelin Systems
Main image: Zeppelin Systems says its easy-to- clean container mixers meet demands for high flexibility and machine availability
November 2021 | COMPOUNDING WORLD 43
IMAGE: ZEPPELIN SYSTEMS
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