Alfa Laval AB (Lund, Sweden; www.alfalaval.com) has expanded its mixing portfolio with the launch of magnetic mixers with a revolutionary magnetically coupled levitating impeller. Alfa Laval magnetic mixers feature a patented design that delivers friction-free mixing, unparalleled cleanability and the ability to run safely even when dry. With dry running, Alfa Laval magnetic mixers can continue to blend until every last drop of product drains from the tank, thus ensuring maximum yield.
“These mixers represent a breakthrough in mixing technology,” says Per-Åke Ohlsson, Manager Market Unit Pharma at Alfa Laval. “They minimize loss of valuable product, which can have a big impact on process economy.”
The impeller levitates on a powerful magnetic field at all times, whether at standstill or in motion, so there is no direct contact between bearing surfaces. That, in turn, means the impeller can safely run dry, continuing to mix effectively until all product is drained while ensuring minimal wear and maintenance.
“A vaccine plant in the U.S. installed Alfa Laval magnetic mixers in several tanks with the goal of minimizing product loss,” Ohlsson offers. “Being able to mix down to the last drop resulted in weekly savings of $8,000. This meant that the cost of the mixer, installation, testing and revalidation was recovered in just three weeks.”
The impeller’s unique eight-wing design (photos, below) delivers efficient mixing even at very low speeds to ensure the gentlest possible product treatment. The levitating impeller also means these mixers are unparalleled when it comes to cleanability. Cleaning solution flows freely, removing product residues efficiently, and drains completely after cleaning and rinsing.
The levitation of the impeller and the eight-wing design make it possible to mix at velocities ranging from 10 to 600 rpm. This flexibility enables the same mixer to handle a wide range of fluid types and mixing duties, such as high intensity mixing and gentle product mixing.
To learn more, visit www.alfalaval.com/biopharm to view one in a series of online mini-seminars about the Alfa Laval magnetic mixer. By clicking on “Movies and animations” in the navigation menu to the left, you can also watch an online animation, detailing the advantages of the mixer’s hygienic construction.
