RIBBON BLENDER DESIGN

This article on Ribbon Blender Design details the design, construction and operation of Ribbon Blender commonly used for mixing of blending of free flowing powders. The industrial applications for which Ribbon Blender is used are listed.

Media : Free flowing powders, granules

Mode of Operation : Batch Mixing, Continuous Mixing

Design and Operation

Mixing Vessel – The ribbon blender consists of a U-shaped horizontal trough containing a double helical ribbon agitator rotating within. The clearance between the external periphery of the ribbon and the internal wall of the mixing vessel is generally in the range of 3 mm. The clearance may be higher depending on the properties of the materials being blended.

Mixer Drive System - The ribbon blender is powered by a drive system comprising of a motor, gearbox, couplings and/or chain-chain wheel.

Mixer Seal - The blender shaft is provided with an appropriate sealingarrangement in the area where it exits the mixing vessel.

Material Charging and Discharging - Material is loaded in the blender through the charging nozzles provided on the top lid. Discharge of material is generally through a centrally located bottom  discharge valve. The blender may be provided with more than one valve, depending on the operational requirement.

Mixer Assembly - The blender assembly comprising of the mixing vessel and the drive system are mounted on a supporting structure, base frame. The height of the base frame is decided based on the required charging height and the discharge height required for the blender operation.