Paddle Mixing Unit With Base Openings for Cleaning Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing paddle mixing devices, particularly preconditioners, are not optimally designed for easy and thorough cleaning, leading to inefficiencies and potential contamination risks due to inaccessible design features.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of closable openings in the base area of the mixing unit, dwell unit, and screw conveyor unit allows for the insertion of cleaning devices, combined with sealing mechanisms and strategically positioned flange plates to ensure comprehensive cleaning without operational interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the mixing unit and dwell unit are equipped with doors on both sides for cleaning access, then the interior becomes accessible for cleaning purposes, but the cleaning process becomes time-consuming and complex due to the need to access multiple sides
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning access is segmented into multiple openings distributed around the cylindrical mixing unit, allowing cleaning to be performed from different positions simultaneously or sequentially without requiring full door assembly operations on both sides
Solution Approach 2:
A cleaning device is introduced as an intermediary tool through the openings in the base area, enabling thorough cleaning of the interior without requiring direct access through complex door mechanisms
2Ease of operation
If openings are provided in the base area for cleaning device insertion, then comprehensive cleaning access is achieved, but the structural integrity and sealing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Flexible sealing elements such as gaskets or seals are used around the openings in the base area to maintain structural integrity while allowing for the insertion and removal of cleaning devices without compromising the sealing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The openings are designed with specific dimensional parameters and sealing characteristics that allow for reliable sealing when closed, ensuring that the structural integrity is maintained while enabling cleaning access
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
The invention relates to a paddle mixing device (1), in particular a preconditioner, comprising a cylindrical mixing unit (2) with a shaft arranged in the mixing unit, wherein the shaft has paddles and the mixing unit has a base surface (2b), characterised in that closable openings (2c) for introducing a cleaning apparatus into the mixing unit (2) are provided in the base surface (2b). The present invention also relates to an extruder (7), comprising such a paddle mixing device (1), and to a method for cleaning such a paddle mixing device (1).