Patented and highly effective, the new energy-efficient Alfa Laval Hybrid Powder Mixer combines pump and powder dissolving technologies in a single versatile unit. It is the only hygienic mixer capable of drawing powder into the unit while simultaneously pumping the resulting process liquid at pressures of more than 4 bar using a single electric drive. When used in combination with the Alfa Laval Rotary Jet Mixer, it dramatically reduces energy consumption for the complete system compared to other powder mixing solutions that require up to four electric drives. In addition to significant energy savings, it also reduces processing time, thereby increasing productivity; it is also capable of mixing products at high dry matter concentration.

The Alfa Laval Hybrid Powder Mixer is the latest addition to the company’s range of hygienic agitators and mixers for batch production in dairy, food and beverage, personal care, biotechnology and pharmaceutical applications.

“Our new dual-stage in-line mixer enhances our portfolio, providing customers with greater processing versatility, reduced emissions, more energy savings and higher productivity,” says Murat Boztepe, Alfa Laval’s Application Manager responsible for the launch. “By driving innovation, we support customers in their quest to ensure product safety as well as profitability.”

Lower total cost of ownership
Investment in an Alfa Laval Hybrid Powder Mixer results in lower total cost of ownership compared to conventional powder dissolving systems.

“Upfront investment costs are lower, considering the integration of tank, mixer and electrical installation,” says Boztepe. “Ongoing costs are lower, too, due to reduced energy consumption and less maintenance due to fewer components.”

Plus the Alfa Laval Hybrid Powder Mixer can be used a CIP (Cleaning-in-Place) pump and a discharge pump, further reducing capital costs and maintenance requirements. This makes it an unbeatable value to improve overall performance of virtually any hygienic processing plant.

High rate of dynamic shear mixing
To ensure optimal dissolution, the Alfa Laval Hybrid Powder Mixer provides a constant suction flow and pre-blends the powder and the liquid before the mixture enters the high-shear stage. Solids therefore easily dissolve into liquids without clumping at a much higher rate than conventional powder mixers.

While other inline powder mixers produce high mechanical shear, the compact rotor-stator of the Alfa Laval Hybrid Powder Mixer creates high dynamic shear, which requires less energy to ensure complete dissolution of the powder. This shortens the mixing cycle while achieving 100% product uniformity.

Saves energy and the environment
Unlike comparable mixer systems that require up to four separate electric motor drives for the complete system, the Alfa Laval Hybrid Powder Mixer only requires one when used in combination with the Alfa Laval Rotary Jet Mixer. This unique system design significantly reduces energy consumption and carbon footprint.