Equipment that performs a homogenizing function is an overhead stirrer. This device is one of the most popular among any other laboratory equipment. Such equipment can be used for ingredients that are characterized by different density, mass, structure.
general description
In order to successfully interact with all of these substances, there are a wide variety of modifications for the overhead mixer. Most often, an overhead stirrer is used to mix several components into a homogeneous mixture having a very high viscosity. The use of this particular unit is due to the fact that the power of its motor is quite high, which helps it cope with substances that have a high density and viscosity. This device has several of the following features:
- Due to the high power of the device, the homogenization process is quite fast.
- Cost-effective use of the device.
- It is possible to adjust the speed with which the overhead mixer will mix the substances.
- The device is unpretentious to laboratory glassware. In other words, you can mix substances poured into flasks, glasses, flasks and other devices.
- It is possible to use a mixer in order to produce dispersions and emulsions that are used for research purposes or in pharmaceuticals.
Digital devices
Digital overhead stirrers are currently available. Their peculiarity lies in the fact that they are much simpler in terms of configuration. In addition, they differ from mechanical ones in that their homogenization rate, and therefore their productivity, is higher. The speed and volume of the substance to be processed depends on the motor power of the device. Those models that have the highest mixing speed are most often used for mixing aqueous solutions. Devices operating at low speeds are used to homogenize more viscous substances.
The working element in this equipment is the nozzle, which carries out homogenization and crushing. The same nozzle cannot be used permanently, they must be changed. In modern models, when this element is changed, the mixing parameters are set under the control of automation, as well as under the influence of measuring instruments.
Description of the positive qualities of the design
The main advantage of the overhead laboratory mixer was that its working bodies, that is, the drive and the shaft seal assembly, are located in the "dry zone". This arrangement significantly increases the life of the equipment, and also simplifies the possible repair and replacement of failed parts.
In addition, it can be noted here that the use of overhead drives is not limited only to the laboratory. They are successfully used in food, cosmetic, chemical and other industries.
Fixture design
The overhead laboratory stirrer with a tripod consists of the following elements: an electric motor (gear motor), a thrust bearing, an end seal assembly, as well as a shaft and the stirrer itself. It should be noted that the shaft and the mixer are made of stainless steel, as they will be in the liquid during operation. The steel grade used to manufacture these parts is AISI 304 and 316, which has passed all sanitary and hygienic tests. It is important to understand that some structural parts are selected depending on the purposes for which the device will be used. Such elements include a high-speed or low-speed drive, type of mixer, size.
Among the common advantages of these devices are the following:
- A wide range of uses.
- Long service life.
- Fully sealed seal assemblies.
- The design of the device complies with all sanitary and hygienic requirements.
- The material used for manufacturing is stainless steel of technical and food type.
Domestic Agitators
A quite common example of domestic production was the mixer with one tripod model PE-8100. The purpose of this equipment is to mix the liquid in flasks, glasses, bottles and other tanks. Also with its help the ability to prepare emulsions and dispersions.
The mixing element for the overhead stirrer of this type is additionally equipped with an integrated control unit, which has a large liquid crystal display. There is a function memory settings, as well as protecting the engine from overheating or overload. In addition, there is the possibility of additional timer setting. There is an advanced model of this device on the market that is ergonomically designed.
Overhead stirrers Heidolph
This company is engaged in the production of Hei-TORQUE powerful mixers. Manufacturers of this equipment adhere to safety standards.
- The first is a smooth start. This possibility seems insignificant, but it is precisely this that allows you to avoid splashing the substance at the start of work. If you remove this function, then there may be a loss of research products. The increase in speed is gradual.
- The devices also have additional shaft protection, which protects against the occurrence of a variety of accidents.
- The motor is a sparkless type mixer, which allows it to be used in an environment characterized by the presence of explosive vapors.
- There is an automatic motor protection against overheating, which helps a lot in cases where the device is used for a long time in continuous mode. When critical temperatures are reached, the equipment will shut itself down.
- The device starts and stops using the touch panel, which helps to avoid accidental starts or stops during operation.
Savings in the use of equipment
Heidolph has taken care to minimize the economic costs of operating the device. The reduction in material costs is largely achieved due to the fact that the housing is completely sealed. This protects it from penetration of dust, moisture or aggressive vapors. Such a device extends the life of the mixer by an average of 10 years. Naturally, in this case, repair of the overhead drive mixer is also carried out much less frequently, since there is no internal corrosion.
Reviews on the use of these devices are mostly positive. If the correct power is selected, then there are no problems in operation. As for the mechanical device, the owners are also generally pretty. It is noted that it is not difficult to disassemble and clean the equipment. Some noted that they have been using the same devices for more than 10 years.