Definition
A laboratory stir emulsifier is a type of laboratory equipment used to achieve efficient mixing, dispersion and emulsification of liquid-liquid or liquid-solid two-phase systems. It mechanically forms a homogeneous and stable emulsification system for one or more amorphic liquids, or refines and disperses solid particles in liquids. This equipment plays a key role in R&D and quality control in multiple industries.
How it works:
The core working principle of the equipment is based on a precise fit between the rotor and the stator rotating at high speed. The rotor rotates at high speeds driven by a motor, creating a strong shear force. The material is sucked into a narrow working chamber composed of rotor and stator, where it is subjected to high-frequency mechanical shear, turbulence and hole effects. This process quickly breaks the interface of the dispersed phase, allowing it to be uniformly dispersed in the continuous phase in the form of tiny particles or droplets, thus forming a stable emulsification or dispersion system. The shear rate of its core can be approximately described by the following formula:
γ = (π * D * N) / (60 * h)
where γ is the shear rate (s⁻¹), D is the rotor diameter (m), N is the rotor speed (rpm), and h is the clearance between the rotor and the stator (m).
Main measurement and evaluation methods
The evaluation of emulsification or dispersion often relies on the determination of physical indicators of the final product. Commonly used methods include: using a laser particle size analyzer to determine the particle size and distribution of dispersed phase particles or droplets; The settlement or delamination speed of the system is evaluated by stability analyzer or static observation method to judge the stability. The changes of rheological characteristics of the system before and after treatment were monitored by a viscometer. and direct observation of microscopic dispersion through a microscope.
Performance Factors
The final treatment effect of the equipment is affected by multiple factors. In terms of equipment parameters, the structural design of the stator, the rotor line speed, the shear clearance and the processing time play a leading role. The process parameters include the feeding sequence of the material, temperature control, and vacuum during processing. The properties of the material itself, such as the viscosity, density, interfacial tension and ratio of each phase component, are also the basis for determining the difficulty and effect of emulsification dispersion.
Applications:
Laboratory mixer emulsifiers are widely used in research and development fields that require fine mixing and dispersion. In the daily chemical industry, it is used to prepare samples such as creams, lotions and shampoos. In the field of food science, he is involved in the development of recipes for sauces, beverages and dairy products. In materials science, it is used in the development of dispersion processes for nanomaterials, coatings, inks. In addition, it is also a common equipment for formulation research, process optimization and quality control in product laboratories in agriculture, textile, petrochemical and other fields.
Key points to consider in selection
Choosing the right laboratory mixer emulsifier requires comprehensive consideration. First, it is necessary to clarify the characteristics of the experimental material, such as viscosity range, corrosiveness, and hygiene requirements. Secondly, determine the required shear strength and energy input of the equipment according to the particle size or droplet size requirements of the target product, which is related to the power and speed range of the motor. The structural material of the equipment, especially the material in contact with the material, must have corresponding corrosion resistance and wear resistance. Ease of operation, easy cleaning and maintenance design, and noise levels during equipment operation are also important considerations in a laboratory environment. Finally, the safety protection functions of the equipment and whether it complies with relevant electrical and mechanical safety standards cannot be ignored.