Plough Mixer
The Plough Mixer, also widely known as a Ploughshare Mixer, is a highly efficient, high-intensity
industrial mixer designed for the rapid and thorough blending of powders, granules, and even thick
pastes or slurries. It consists of a horizontal, cylindrical mixing drum with a central shaft that runs
through its axis. Mounted on this shaft are the distinctive, shovel-like mixing elements, or
“ploughs,” which are arranged strategically. These ploughs are the heart of the machine, as their
shape and placement are engineered to create a powerful, three-dimensional mixing action that is
key to the mixer’s performance.
The working principle is based on the creation of a mechanically generated fluidized bed. As the
central shaft and the ploughs rotate at a relatively high speed, the materials inside the vessel are not
merely tumbled, but are violently projected away from the wall and hurled into free space. This
action generates high turbulence and a crisscross flow pattern, which ensures rapid particle
movement in radial, lateral, and longitudinal directions. This intense, high-shear environment
guarantees that the entire product volume is constantly involved in the mixing process, eliminating
dead zones and leading to a highly homogeneous blend in a very short cycle time.
For applications requiring even greater intensity, the Plough Mixer is often equipped with optional,
independently driven high-speed choppers. These choppers are typically positioned between the
ploughs and run at a much higher peripheral speed. Their primary function is to apply concentrated,
high-shear energy to the material. This is particularly effective for breaking down soft lumps or
agglomerates, dispersing pasty additives, or achieving uniform wet granulation when liquids are
introduced into the mix. The synergistic action of the main ploughs and the choppers makes the
machine highly versatile.
Features:
Rapid and high-intensity mixing performance
Creates fluidized mixing zone for uniform results
Suitable for powders, granules & thick pastes
Eliminates dead zones inside the mixer
Optional high-speed choppers for lump breaking
Short mixing cycle with excellent homogeneity
FAQs
A Plough Mixer is used for fast and thorough mixing of powders, granules, pastes, slurries, and wet granulation applications.
High-speed ploughs create a mechanically fluidized bed, ensuring intense 3D movement of all particles.
Choppers provide additional high-shear action to break lumps, disperse liquids, and improve granulation.
Yes, it is highly effective for wet mixing, coating, and granulation processes.
Pharmaceutical, chemical, food, fertilizer, and construction material industries widely use Plough Mixers.