Three-dimensional vibrational mixing

When working with disperse solid matter systems, one uses the effect of vibration in numerous processes. Solid matter mixing with vibration has only occurred in very simple units up to now. By means of the 3D-vibrational mixer from the company Kuston, Kleve, the influence of vibration on bulk materials and new mixing techniques are demonstrated. The 3D-vibrational mixer is suitable for liquids and solids, does not require mixing tools that need to be cleaned, and does not carry out rotary motions which would hinder incoming lines. It is used for mixing small amounts, where the mixing tank can be used simultaneously as the transportation container, so that a transfer is unnecessary. With the aid of 4 linear motors, the vibrational amplitudes and the frequencies can be varied within wide boundaries in all three spatial directions. By analyzing the vibrational system by means of Lissajous figures, it can be demonstrated that the optimal mixing effect occurs in the case of small frequency differences between the three axes. For free-flowing bulk materials, the best possible mixing state, the uniform coincidence mixing, is achieved after 2 min.