A tumble blender is available in a variety of geometries, the most common being the V-shaped or double-cone configurations. The vessel is partially loaded with product and rotated at operating speeds in the range of 5 to 25 revolutions per minute. Diffusion is the main mechanism for mixing: batch materials cascade down, distributing particles over a freshly exposed surface as the vessel rotates on a horizontal axis.

In a V-shaped blender, the batch is continuously being split and recombined. In order to take advantage of this mixing and flow pattern, raw materials are generally loaded to the vessel in layers rather than side by side. Tumble blending is very low-impact and appropriate for processing abrasive solids. It is also commonly used in making precise blends containing trace components (<1%) or ingredients that are vastly dissimilar in size and density.

The geometry of the V-shaped and double-cone vessels allows complete discharge of the blended material. Both designs however require a large footprint to accommodate the mixer base, as well as ample overhead space for the vessel to rotate. In certain installations, this type of equipment is operated from within a dedicated room to ensure safety.

A few examples of typical end products include:
Metal powders
Cereal
Face powders
Detergents
Bakery mixes
Ceramic powders
Plastics
Milk powders
Fertilizers

We stock 5, 10 and 15 cu. ft. models for either rental or purchase. They are also available for no-charge trials in the Ross Test and Development Center.

Call 1-631-234-0500 or Email to obtain additional information

Ross Corporate Website

Ease of cleaning
The tumble blender is easily accessible for cleaning. Smooth finishes should be specified on the wetted surfaces to improve cleanability.

Reduction of lumps
The gentle blending action of the rotating vessel alone is not suitable for breaking down tough lumps in the batch. A high speed intensifier bar is required for applications that need sufficient shear to reduce the size of agglomerates. This intensifier bar is installed along the blender’s axis of rotation.

Solid/liquid mixing
Tumble blenders can be used for mixing low-viscosity, slurry-type applications where the liquids and solids are all added through the vessel cover. If the liquid phase is a minor ingredient in the blend, it can be continuously sprayed across the solids as the blender is rotating. To accomplish this, spray nozzles are installed on the intensifier bar designed for liquid addition.

Drying
Drying applications often benefit from having a jacketed vessel that is also rated for vacuum. Vacuum drying is an excellent method for drying heat-sensitive products because it requires lower heat to drive off moisture or solvents compared to drying under atmospheric conditions. Jackets are available on both design configurations.

Controls
The most basic controls allow you to start, stop and jog the motor. However,variable frequency drives are typically recommended as they allow soft start under full load conditions. They also enable adjustment of rotational speed so that the contents can slide or cascade to the lower portion of the rotating vessel at a controlled rate. If preferred, the blender can be programmed to shut off automatically after a certain number of revolutions.

Call 1-631-234-0500 or Email to schedule a test.