Solutions to Batch Mixing Issues

Inefficiencies in batch mixing operations manifest themselves in a number of ways such as long cycle times, frequent reworks, defects or low product quality, difficulties in maintaining temperature, losses in raw material or finished product, and intensive clean-up, to name a few. This white paper presents some strategies for improving commonly encountered batch mixing problems. Because mixing processes vary from one application to another – with different objectives, design configurations, rheologies, operating limitations, etc. – there are no fix-all solutions that will apply to every situation. A particular type of agitator or level of mixing intensity may be beneficial to one formulation but detrimental to another product. The ideas discussed in this paper are recommendations of Ross mixing experts based on the company’s collective experience as a mixing equipment provider to the process industries for over 169 years. Mixer testing and simulation trials are encouraged to confirm the suitability of a specific mixing strategy.