The Challenge of Agglomerates
One of the most common problems when dispersing powders into liquids is the formation of agglomerates. These clusters of particles, if left unaddressed, can significantly impact the appearance, texture, and performance of the final product.
“Fish Eyes” and Other Agglomerates
Agglomerates come in various forms, each presenting unique challenges. Gel-type agglomerates, for instance, arise when hydrocolloids like gums and thickeners are inadequately dispersed into liquids. Instead of breaking down and fully wetting out, agglomerates can form when dry powder particles become encapsulated within an outer gel coating. These are often referred to as “fish eyes” due to their gelatinous appearance.
In suspensions, another form of agglomerate emerges, where solid particles adhere to each other despite undergoing milling or pre-micronization. Although these agglomerates may be minuscule and imperceptible to the naked eye, they have a noticeable impact on the final product. With pigments for instance, agglomerates can result in undesirable color flecks within the product.
Benefits of Silverson Mixing Technology
- Enhanced Yield: By dispersing agglomerates rather than filtering them out, Silverson mixers maximize product yield and reduce waste, resulting in cost savings and improved efficiency.
- Optimal Ingredient Utilization: The efficient dispersion process ensures that all powder particles are fully hydrated, maximizing the utilization of raw materials and minimizing formulation discrepancies.
- Streamlined Production: Silverson mixers facilitate rapid and thorough dispersion, significantly reducing mixing times and enhancing overall production efficiency.
- Versatility and Adaptability: With a wide range of mixing capabilities, Silverson mixers are suitable for various applications across industries, providing versatile solutions tailored to specific processing needs.
Unlocking Efficiency with Silverson
For manufacturers seeking to streamline their production processes and achieve superior product quality, Silverson mixers offer a proven and reliable solution. By leveraging advanced mixing technology, businesses can overcome the challenges posed by agglomerates and optimize their manufacturing operations for greater success.