Colloid Mill
Principle
Colloidal mill works on the principle of rotor-stator
The size reduction is affected due to shearing, when the material is passed between the narrow gap of milling surfaces of rotor and stator. A rotor turns at high speeds of 3000 – 20000rpm.
The high levels of hydraulic shear applied to the process liquid disrupt structures in the fluid. Colloid mills are frequently used to increase the stability of suspensions, emulsions and can also be used to reduce the particle size of solids in suspensions
Higher shear rates leads to smaller droplets of 1 micron. Based on a rotor rotating at high speed and very close to a conical stator, the particle size is done by modifying the gap between the rotor and the stator.
Construction of Colloid Mill
• A colloidal mill consist of a high speed rotor and a stator with a conical milling surfaces between
• Which is an adjustable clearance ranging from 0.002 to 0.03 inches
• The rotor speed is 3000 to 20000 rpm. The material to be ground should be pre milled as finely as possible to prevent damage to the colloidal mill
• Rotors and the stator may be smooth surfaced or rough surface. With the rotor and the stator there is a thin uniform film of material between them and it is subjected to the maximum amount of shear
Working
The material is placed into the mill though the inlet hopper. It is then passed through the narrow gap between the rotor and stator and thus reduced the fine particle size
A colloid mill is a hydraulic shear producing device
The colloid mill works to reduce the size of the suspended droplets. The mill allows the solid particles to become so small
The process of colloid milling is done through the addition of the heavier liquid into the chamber of the mill that performs the shearing process. Once the heavier liquid has been added the lighter material whether it
is a solid mass or a liquid of different viscosity is added to the material to start the mill. When the milling portion of the function takes place, the materials are both stirred together within the mill at a high rate of speed
In other model the stator remains constant and the rotor will do the function of rotation.
It creates the amount of hydraulic shear needed to break down the materials
Advantages
• High throughput with excellent grinding result
• Infinitely adjustable gap settings between rotor/stator for control of particle size reduction
• Suitable for products of high viscosity range
• Capable of operation under pressures up to 16 bar
• High-value seal with wear-resistant materials
• High quality surface finishes for easy cleaning
• Other materials and finishes are available upon request
• Machine is self-draining
• Low noise levels
Disadvantages
• Requires high power for the running of the colloidal mill
• Using of wet materials
• Consumes more energy
Applications
Colloid mill is used for preparing suspensions, emulsions and ointments
Capable of producing pharmaceutical products with reduced particle size < 1 μ
Colloidal mill can be sterilized so it can be used in the production of sterile products
FAQs
- What industries benefit most from colloid mills? Colloid mills find extensive use in the food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries.
- How does a colloid mill contribute to environmental sustainability? Colloid mills can contribute to sustainability through efficient processes and the exploration of eco-friendly alternatives.
- Are there safety concerns associated with colloid mill operation? Yes, operator safety is crucial, and strict adherence to guidelines and safety measures is essential.
- What factors should be considered when choosing a colloid mill? Particle size requirements, material viscosity, and industry-specific needs are crucial factors to consider.
- What are the future trends in colloid mill technology? Continued technological advancements and emerging applications are key trends shaping the future of colloid mills.
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