Homogenization is the process by which a gas, liquid, or solid is broken down and mixed into another substance – typically a liquid – to create a new, more stable substance. Those unfamiliar with the process may visualize a kitchen blender, but one with much more force and capability. While the concept doesn’t sound particularly complex on its face, breaking a substance into particles or nanoparticles requires significant force, which must be derived from external energy sources such as homogenizers. Homogenizers are utilized across many industries to create more stable mixtures with increased bioavailability, even consistencies, and extended shelf lives. Although most commonly associated with food and beverages, such as dairy, this type of equipment is also critical in the biotech, pharmaceutical, and chemical manufacturing spaces. Which homogenizer is appropriate for each application is determined by the type of mixed substances being utilized and the finished product’s intended usage. Here is a brief summary of the homogenizers most frequently found on the market:
Kinds of Homogenizers
Many types of homogenizers exist, ranging from standard kitchen tools such as blenders to the more sophisticated equipment utilized in large manufacturing environments. Homogenizers are classified according to the force they deliver, with the most basic types being:
Mechanical Homogenizers: This equipment utilizes combinations of agitation, stirring, shearing, and impact to first break down and then mix substances. Mechanical homogenizer types include bead mills, as well as rotor-stator and blade homogenizers.
HPH or High-Pressure Homogenizers: These types of homogenizers force pressurized cell suspensions through small spaces to disrupt and break their bonds. These homogenizers often also utilize high-velocity impact and pressure to break down celluar structures more effectively.
Ultrasonic Homogenizers: This variety of homogenizers combines extreme sonic pressure waves in different vessels to create imploding microbubbles. This process is known as cavitation, as it breaks covalent bonds and facilitates the blending process.
What Industries Rely on Homogenizers?
Food and Beverage: Many consumers are familiar with the term “homogenized milk” and thus associate the process with food and beverage manufacturers. Companies in these industries utilize homogenizers to enhance both the stability and appearance of their consumer products. Homogenization prevents milk from separating into cream and keeps products such as orange juice, mayonnaise, and yogurt from separating back into their individual parts before consumption. Pharmaceutical and Chemical: Whether to manufacture drugs or plastics, both pharmaceutical and industrial companies rely on homogenizers to facilitate more uniform mixing and an end product characterized by a tighter distribution of smaller particles. The process maximizes bioavailability and extends the shelf life when used for pharmaceutical purposes; and boosts conductivity, and improves surface cohesion for chemical applications. Chemical processes may range from producing life-saving drugs to manufacturing household paint – but they all rely on powerful homogenizers to properly blend product particles, maintain uniformity, and reduce overall expense. Biotech: Companies in the biotech space, primarily medical and agricultural, create products out of living organisms. These companies work with bacteria, fungi, and viruses, as well as plant and animal tissues. They utilize homogenization to facilitate the modification of crops and livestock, develop and test new medications, or engineer innovative biofuels. The specialized equipment is used to lyse (break apart) cells, minimize particle size, and create micro and nanoparticles for research or production. Given the precise nature of these activities, the homogenizer ensures consistently scalable results while safeguarding cell content integrity.
Zwirner Has the Equipment You Need
For over three decades, Zwirner Equipment Company has provided a wide array of industrial clients with quality, new and used sanitary-grade stainless steel machinery. Our extensive inventory of used homogenizers and parts is expertly reconditioned to guarantee full functionality and proper operation. Browse our online inventory to find what you need – then call to learn more about our maintenance and transportation services.
