Charles Ross & Son has introduced the VersaMix multi-shaft mixers with solids/liquid Injection manifold (SLIM) technology, designed to enable efficient large-scale powder dispersion into low-viscosity liquids including resins, oils, melted waxes, emulsions, and aqueous solutions.
The VersaMix Model VM-600 is a 600-gal capacity dual-shaft mixer designed for deep vacuum levels. Featuring a high shear mixer with SLIM technology, the rotor/stator assembly of the VM-600 creates suction to draw solids sub-surface, directly into the high-shear zone. This method of material addition accelerates powder wet-out and minimises issues like agglomeration (fisheyes), floating powders and dusting, the company says.
The second agitator is a two-wing anchor equipped with hinged Teflon scrapers for consistent heat transfer across the vessel sidewalls and bottom which could be jacketed for temperature control. After the powder induction step, the VM-600 can reportedly handle a significant increase in viscosity because the combined mixing action of anchor and high shear mixer ensures adequate turnover. The finished product may take on the consistency of a thickened gel, paste or slurry. The machine can be supplied with a third agitator, such as a sawtooth disc blade or a screw auger.
Operated from a 15” HMI touchscreen with a customisable recipe system, the mixer allows for batching based on speed, time, temperature and vacuum pressure. Digital valve controls; printing of batch ticket; interface with pumps and load cells; and other functions are also programmed into the mixer control panel.
