2021/11
3.General Information
7
3.
General Information
3.1.
DESCRIPTION
This blender is comprised of a centrifugal pump that as an option feeds an in-line mixer. A device is installed at the
pump’s intake that is used for introducing solids, which are suctioned from the hopper inco
rporated on the frame.
This unit is approved for use with food products.
3.2.
PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
The suction created at the pump’s intake, suctions the powder added to the fluid from the hopper. Subsequently, the
flow passes through the centrifugal pump where a pre-mixture of the solid is created. Then, the flow passes through
the In-line mixer, where the mixing or dissolving is completed and if any lumps are present, it is completely destroyed.
The adding of solids can be regulated by means of a butterfly valve located at the base of the hopper.
The powder inlet pipe is dry during the operation of the blender.
If the inlet pipe is obstructed, first verify that the blender rotates in the proper direction and then verify that the flow
is sufficient.
The reasons why the powder can be moistened or wet down are the following:
•
Improper liquid inlet flow.
When the flow is low, which is normally created by the equipment feed
backpressure being too high, the flow may not be able to sweep the solids that are being added or even the liquid
may not be able flow up the pipe and into the hopper.
•
Improper pressure.
The differential pressure of the blender must be low (6-9 m), the same as the pressure at
the inlet to the blender, which must be negative but without resulting in cavitation since this would be
counterproductive.
•
High viscosity.
By nature, a viscous product causes a backpressure that can cause the equipment to move an
improper flow for its operation. A centrifugal pump drastically minimizes its flow if the viscosity of the product
increases.
•
High feed pressure.
A feed line that is too long or has a diameter that is too small, or if the viscosity is too high
will generate a very high backpressure.
To solve this problem the line should be properly sized. It is important that a negative pressure be maintained at the
inlet to the blender.
The amount of powder that can be added is very difficult to predict since it depends on a large number of variables.
Some of the most important variables are:
•
Humidity.
•
Fat content
•
Microscopic texture (soft, rough).
•
Density.
•
Fluidity (volume of air in the product)
•
Powder type (granular, flakes, fines, etc.)
The amount of powder that can be dissolved in the blender depends on the characteristics of the product.
