Homogeneous Bulk Solids Mixing Without Product Degradation
Achieving a homogeneous blend while protecting sensitive powders and granulates is one of the key challenges in bulk solids processing.
Achieving a homogeneous blend while protecting sensitive powders and granulates is one of the key challenges in bulk solids processing. Differences in particle size, bulk density and flow characteristics can affect blend quality, while excessive mechanical stress may alter product properties. With its MIXOMAT range, FUCHS Maschinen AG offers tumble mixers designed for applications ranging from laboratory use to industrial production.
Gentle Mixing for Sensitive Products
Whether in the chemical, pharmaceutical or food industry, mixing processes require consistent, reproducible results while preserving product quality. Sensitive powders and granulates demand mixing technologies that ensure homogeneous blending without damaging particle structure.
The MIXOMAT tumble mixers operate according to a three-dimensional mixing principle. The mixing container is filled to a maximum of 70% of its volume and rotated upside down during the preset mixing cycle. Because the container is mounted at an angle, the material follows a three-dimensional tumbling motion, continuously redistributing the product throughout the mixing process.
Unlike conventional forced mixers, the system does not rely on high-speed mixing tools, resulting in gentle product handling with minimal mechanical stress. If required, a mixing cross mounted inside the lid can further accelerate the blending process.
Since only the mixing container, its lid and, where applicable, a mixing baffle come into contact with the product, cleaning requirements are significantly reduced. Where dedicated containers are assigned to individual products, intermediate cleaning between batches can often be avoided.
Modular Mixer Range
The MIXOMAT series covers a wide range of container sizes and applications.
The MIXOMAT mini is designed for batch sizes between 0.5 and 2 litres and is particularly suitable for laboratory work, product development and small production batches. The compact stainless-steel unit is supplied with polypropylene containers in 0.5, 1 and 2 litre sizes.
For container capacities from 3 to 25 litres, the MIXOMAT A is available. It can be supplied either as a benchtop model or as a mobile version and is available with single- or double-sided container mounting.
The MIXOMAT B covers production applications with container sizes from 30 to 400 litres. Typical applications include blending and homogenising powders and granules, colouring bulk materials, re-suspending settled liquids and dissolving solids in liquids. Mobile versions as well as ATEX-certified models for Zones 2/22 and 1/21 are available.
For applications requiring high hygienic standards, FUCHS offers the electrically tilting MIXOMAT C. The MIXOMAT C-HE version features a sealed tilting shaft and a fully enclosed housing, making it suitable for cleanroom environments.
Food Industry Application
An international food manufacturer uses the MIXOMAT C-HE to blend powdered premixes. The products have an average particle size of less than 300 µm and a fat content of between 10 and 12%. Batch sizes are approximately 60 kg, with around 25 batches processed each week.
Raw materials are weighed manually before being transferred directly into the mixing container. The mixer is equipped with a mechanical lifting and clamping system for 200-litre drums, improving ergonomics and simplifying the handling of heavy containers. According to the user, previous positive experience with MIXOMAT systems at other production sites played an important role in the investment decision. Additional factors included the high mixing quality, gentle product handling and straightforward operation.
Reproducible Mixing Processes
The mixers are equipped with an integrated PLC control system featuring a touchscreen interface. Mixing time, rotational speed, lifting and lowering functions can all be programmed via the control panel. Product-specific recipes can also be stored and recalled to ensure reproducible production processes.
Two drum clamping systems are available. The HR holder uses a quick-release locking mechanism that prevents accidental opening during operation. For containers with slightly different diameters, the SP holder uses SpanSet straps, providing greater flexibility when handling different drum types.
Gentle Blending from Laboratory to Production
With the modular MIXOMAT product range, FUCHS Maschinen AG offers tumble mixing solutions for the gentle blending of powders, granules and other bulk solids. The three-dimensional tumbling principle enables homogeneous mixing while minimising mechanical stress on the product, making the system suitable for laboratory applications as well as industrial production environments with demanding hygiene and quality requirements.
