The demands placed on modern mixing systems are constantly increasing. In addition to a high degree of homogeneity, short mixing times, low energy consumption, gentle processing of the product and easy cleaning are required. The GloMix Glaxiaris® ball mixer takes an innovative approach to this: it combines a spherical mixing chamber with a mixing axis inclined at 23°. This design is based on natural principles of movement and combines the advantages of horizontal and vertical mixing technology in a single system.
Das Prinzip der Achsneigung
The key feature of the Glaxiaris® mixer is its mixing axis, which is inclined at an angle of 23°. This inclination is inspired by the Earth’s axis and generates a complex three-dimensional movement of the product during the mixing process. Instead of a purely horizontal or vertical flow of material, the following occur simultaneously:
- axial movements
- radial movements
- tangential movements
This ensures that the mix is continuously guided through the mixing chamber along new paths. Dead zones and preferred flow paths are minimised, resulting in a particularly uniform distribution of all components.
Whilst conventional mixers often operate in only one main flow direction, the axial tilt of the Glaxiaris® creates a three-dimensional redistribution of the product. This significantly improves the mixing quality and achieves a homogeneity of over 99 per cent.
A combination of horizontal and vertical mixing techniques
A key unique selling point of the Glaxiaris® mixer is that it combines the advantages of horizontal and vertical mixing systems. Two independently controllable mixing tools are mounted on a common shaft and generate two separate mixing flows.
Advantages of horizontal mixing technology
Horizontal mixers are typically characterised by:
- high shear forces
- rapid mixing
- effective incorporation of liquids
- intensive product processing
Sie eignen sich besonders für anspruchsvolle Mischaufgaben, können jedoch bei empfindlichen Produkten zu höherem Energieeintrag und stärkerer Produktbeanspruchung führen.
Advantages of vertical mixing technology
Vertical mixers, on the other hand, often offer:
- gentle product handling
- low tendency to segregate
- good residual discharge
- low energy consumption
However, mixing times are often longer than with horizontal systems.
Synergy at Glaxiaris
Thanks to its inclined axis and spherical mixing chamber, the Glaxiaris combines both operating principles:
| Horizontal benefits | Vertical advantages |
|---|---|
| thorough mixing | gentle handling |
| fast mixing times | low energy consumption |
| good fluid distribution | complete emptying |
| high process dynamics | low product load |
The axis inclination ensures the crucial transition between the two flow patterns. The product is neither pushed exclusively horizontally nor circulated purely vertically, but is moved continuously in three dimensions.
The effect of the spherical shape in conjunction with the axial tilt
The effect of the axial tilt is further enhanced by the spherical mixing chamber.
For a given volume, a sphere has the smallest surface area of any container shape. This offers several advantages:
- lower friction losses
- reduced energy consumption
- less product build-up
- easier cleaning
- more uniform product movement
The inclined axis makes optimum use of the sphere’s symmetrical geometry and ensures virtually ideal product flow within the mixing chamber.
Practical implications for the mixing process
Axle inclination has a positive effect on numerous process parameters:
Greater homogeneity
The three-dimensional movement ensures that the materials being mixed are distributed evenly. Homogeneity levels of over 99% are achieved.
Shorter mixing times
The continuous recirculation of the product accelerates the mass transfer within the mixing chamber.
Gentle processing
Sensitive raw materials such as herbs, spices, tea leaves and food supplements are not subjected to unnecessary mechanical stress.
Improved liquid dispensing
Liquids can be incorporated evenly during the mixing process, without the formation of lumps or localised overdoses.
Complete emptying
The inclined design makes targeted use of gravity, thereby minimising product residue.
Conclusion
The 23° axial inclination of the GloMix Glaxiaris® ball mill is far more than just a design feature. It forms the central element of a mixing concept that combines the advantages of horizontal and vertical mixing technology.
Through the combination of:
- inclined mixing axis,
- spherical mixing chamber,
- independent mixing flows and
- three-dimensional product movement
achieves a high degree of homogeneity, short mixing times, low energy consumption and gentle processing of the product. Compared with conventional horizontal, vertical or free-fall mixers, the axial inclination offers significantly improved product flow and enables particularly efficient use of the mixing chamber. The Glaxiaris® ball mill thus represents an innovative approach in modern industrial mixing technology.