Definition
Kuaishou disperser is a laboratory instrument used to achieve rapid mixing, dispersion, homogenization and dissolution of materials. It generates strong shear forces, impact forces, and turbulence in the container through a high-speed rotating dispersion disc or rotor, thereby breaking up solid particles and distributing them evenly in the liquid medium, forming a stable suspension or emulsion. This equipment plays an important role in sample preparation and process development in many industrial and scientific research fields such as coatings, inks, cosmetics, food, and nanomaterial preparation.
Principle
Kuaishou disperser works based on the principle of combining high-speed mechanical shearing with hydraulic shearing. The motor drives the spindle to rotate at high speed, driving the movement of the dispersion disc mounted on the shaft end. When it rotates at high speed, the serrations or holes on the edge of the disc will exert strong mechanical shear force on the material, breaking the agglomerated solid particles. At the same time, the rotation of the dispersion disc drives the liquid to form a high-speed vortex, generating huge hydraulic shear force, causing violent collision and friction between particles and liquid medium and between particles and particles, so as to achieve fine dispersion and uniform mixing. The whole process can be simplified into mechanical energy and converted into fluid kinetic energy and surface energy, which ultimately reduces the interfacial tension of the system and achieves a dispersed and stable state.
Measurement and evaluation methods
The evaluation of dispersion often relies on the determination of multiple physicochemical indicators of the final dispersion system. Particle size distribution is the core index, which can be measured by laser particle size analyzer to characterize the degree of dispersion with characteristic particle size parameters such as D50 and D90. System stability can be assessed by observing the resting delamination time, measuring the settlement rate, or analyzing the changes in backscattered light using a multiplex light scatterometer. The change in viscosity can be measured before and after dispersion using a rotary viscometer, and the uniformity of dispersion can be judged by sampling multiple points to determine the solid content or by observing the microscopic topography using a microscope. For emulsion systems, their particle size and zeta potential can also be determined to evaluate dispersion stability. These methods are implemented according to the standards followed by the specific application area, such as ASTM, ISO or GB standards.
Influencing factors
The dispersion effect is affected by multiple factors. In terms of equipment parameters, the diameter, tooth structure, rotational speed, and the immersion depth and eccentric position of the dispersion disc in the container are key variables. Generally, the higher the rotational speed, the greater the shear force provided, but avoid excessive heating or the introduction of air bubbles. The process parameters include dispersion time, temperature control, and dosing sequence and method. The material properties are more significant, including the initial particle size, hardness and concentration of the dispersed phase particles, as well as the viscosity, surface tension and chemical properties of the continuous phase liquid. The type and amount of dispersant or surfactant in the formulation can significantly change the interfacial properties, thereby affecting the dispersion efficiency and final stability. In addition, the shape and size of the container need to be matched to the dispersion disc to ensure an efficient flow field circulation.
Applications
Kuaishou disperser has a wide range of applications. In the coatings and inks industry, it is used to evenly disperse pigments and fillers in resin bases. In the field of cosmetics, it is used to prepare creams, lotions, ensuring even distribution of active ingredients. In the food industry, it is used to manufacture sauces and condiments to achieve ingredient homogenization. In the research and development and production of new materials such as nanomaterials, lithium battery slurry, and ceramic slurry, it is a key pretreatment equipment to achieve nanoparticle dispersion and prevent agglomeration. In addition, R&D and quality control in chemical, pesticide preparations, adhesives and other industries also play an important role.
Selection considerations
Choosing the right Kuaishou disperser requires comprehensive consideration. First, it is necessary to clarify the properties of the treated material, such as viscosity range, solids content, particle hardness and sensitivity to shear heat. According to the viscosity of the material and the throughput, determine the power and torque output capacity of the required motor. The speed range should cover the entire process from initial wetting to high-speed dispersion, and the choice of wide-speed or fixed-speed model depends on process flexibility requirements. Dispersion disc materials (e.g., stainless steel, carbide) need to consider wear resistance and chemical compatibility. Safety features of the equipment, such as overload protection, emergency braking, and the need for vacuum degassing or lifting adjustment, should also be determined based on the actual process environment. In addition, ease of cleaning and maintenance, operating noise levels and compliance with relevant safety standards are also important practical considerations.