Cannabis Processing Equipment: The Critical Role of Industrial Mixers
As a rapidly growing industry, the cannabis sector needs to be able to keep up with customer demand. From cannabis-infused products to medical...
As a rapidly growing industry, the cannabis sector needs to be able to keep up with customer demand. From cannabis-infused products to medical marijuana, the industry is booming and doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.
Enter industrial cannabis processing equipment.
Without the proper equipment, the industry wouldn’t produce as fast as demand requires. Let’s explore the types of equipment commonly used in the cannabis sector.
3 Types of Cannabis Processing Equipment
Cannabis processing equipment can include many things from mixers to tanks, to extraction equipment. Here are three types of cannabis mixers:
- High shear mixers
- High-speed dispersers
- Multi-shaft mixers
1. High Shear Mixers
High shear mixers operate at very high speeds and apply shear forces to mixtures that break down particles and distribute ingredients uniformly. In the cannabis industry, this is particularly valuable in producing cannabis-infused products such as edibles, creams, and oils.
For example, when producing cannabis-infused lotion, the high shear mixer ensures that the cannabis oil is thoroughly and consistently integrated into the cream base. This will help prevent separation and promote consistency through the product.
2. High-speed Dispersers
High-speed dispersers handle viscous ingredients and mixtures, which can be common in the cannabis industry. These mixers excel in dispersing solids into liquids such as powers, quickly and without clumps.
In the cannabis industry, high-speed dispersers help in the production of cannabis tinctures or beverages by mixing cannabinoid extracts into bases such as alcohol or syrups. By using high-speed dispersers, the texture and quality of the final product will be improved.
3. Multi-shaft Mixers
Multi-shaft mixers are versatile and combine the features of both high shear and low-speed mixers – meaning they can be used for a variety of applications.
In the cannabis industry, a common application is producing complex cannabis salve. The mixer can first blend the base ingredients at a lower speed, then switch to a higher speed to thoroughly incorporate active cannabis extracts.
Resource: If you’re looking to purchase a high shear, high-speed, or multi-shaft mixer, check out our inventory at Mixer Direct.
Key Processes Using Industrial Mixers in the Cannabis Industry
Although we discussed specific types of cannabis mixers and their uses, there are key processes that nearly all processing equipment perform in the industry.
- Mixing ingredients – combining various ingredients such as cannabinoids, terpenes, carriers, or additives.
- Homogenization – ensuring a consistent product by achieving uniform particle distribution.
- Wet and dry granulation – producing products with enhanced texture and consistency.
Considerations When Choosing a Cannabis Mixer
Selecting a mixer for cannabis processing requires careful consideration of three key things:
- Batch size and viscosity of the product
- Desired mixing action (folding, shearing, etc.)
- Material compatibility (e.g., stainless steel for hygiene)
Batch Size and Viscosity of the Product
The cannabis industry ranges from medical marijuana to recreational use, so demand varies. There are some small-scale artisanal operations, as well as large-scale production facilities.
Choosing a versatile mixer that can handle different batch sizes allows you to scale up or down your business as needed.
Desired Mixing Action
Depending on the product you’re creating, you may need a different mixing action. For example, you may need gentle folding for more fragile ingredients or more vigorous shearing for thorough blending.
When choosing your mixer, you want to keep your application and best-suited mixing action in mind.
Material Compatibility
No matter what industry you’re in, material compatibility is essential. In the cannabis industry, stainless steel is often used for processing equipment. It offers corrosion resistance, ease of cleaning, and non-reactivity with the products to ensure hygiene standards and regulations are met.
Finding Cannabis Processing Equipment for Your Business
The cannabis industry is booming and is expected to continue to grow over the years. To keep up with your customer’s demands, you need to have the proper cannabis mixers and equipment.
If you’re looking to expand your cannabis production or just getting started, MXD Process is here to help.
