Romaco FrymaKoruma is demonstrating the MaxxD Lab, a mixer/disperser/homogenizer which offers a compact footprint and contained operation, at Propak Asia 2007, held in BITEC, Bangkok, Thailand, from 13 – 16 June.

The dual system MaxxD mixer/disperser/homogenizer, from Romaco's one-bowl vacuum processor range, delivers unprecedented flexibility, allowing users to choose either a multi-chamber rotor-stator system or a colloid head, depending on the product. So easy is it to change the homogenizer head, that the processing system can be switched from batch to batch, if required.

The aseptic design of the MaxxD is optimized for feeding free-flowing solids or liquids directly into the working area of the homogenizer. Optimum mixing and heat exchange are facilitated through the application of a specially configured agitator, designed to ensure maximum product movement in all directions. Cleaning times are also minimized, increasing productivity further.

The MaxxD is ideal for food processing applications, including the manufacture of mayonnaise, ketchup, sauces and salad dressings and for the production of lotions, cremes and gels in the cosmetics sector.

The MaxxD range includes six models for production of batch volumes from laboratory scale through to 1500 liters.

The company's one-bowl vacuum processor range also includes the Dinex, a high-end system for the production of suspensions, creams, emulsions and gels across a wide viscosity range. The system is particularly suited to complex formulations, thanks to its advanced homogenization system, which offers absolute flexibility in matching the process cycle to the individual requirements of the product. This operates on the proven rotor-stator system but with the added benefit of axial adjustment of the stator, which allows regulation of the shear force exerted on the product. When the stator is placed in the shearing zone, the machine produces perfect dispersing with good pumping characteristics. When the stator is placed outside the dispersing zone, the machine offers excellent pumping characteristics at a lower shear force, process parameters that are ideal for sensitive products.

The Dinex allows both internal and external recirculation of the product - a further contribution to process flexibility. Internal recirculation allows feeding of the product beneath the fill level in the main vessel, a particular advantage where batch sizes are small. External recirculation complements the internal vertical mixing action.

The Dinex Lab (batch size 4-12 liters) is ideal for formulation development and scale-up applications and is part of a range incorporating models for batch sizes up to 4000 liters.