Mixing speeds may range from 200 RPM to 2000 RPM. Required mixing speeds will depend on batch size, mixer blade and product. The lower the RPM's the longer required to mix.
Always start mixing at a low speed. It is far easier to increase speed if needed than to clean ink off walls, ceiling and clothing.
Propeller blades will perform at much lower speeds than comparable size dispersion blades.
Dispersion of solids will require high speed dispersion. Mixing of predispersed components can be done with low speed blades.
NOTE: High speed mixing is not required to blend pigments into prepared bases and in fact many viscous or high opacity or pearlescent bases are sensitive to over mixing. Please read product data sheets.
5 Gallon pails can be mixed by hand drill and proper blade, but a drill press or similar stationary mixing device is recommended for batches this size. For safety reasons we do not recommend using dispersion blades in hand held mixing devices. Dispersion blades operate best at high speeds often in excess of 1500 RPM, such a blade at high speed becomes much like a saw blade, therefore a stationary mixing device is a must with this blade.
If you are purchasing mixing equipment, keep dimensions in mind. Make sure your mixer shafts will fit into your drive chucks. Shafts can be turned down, but it's far easier to get the correct size to start. If purchasing a drill press or similar stationary mixer drive, be sure your largest mixing container will fit under the drive chuck.
Variable speed devices are preferable to fixed speed mixing devices. A range of 200 RPM to 2000 RPM will handle most of your small batch mixing needs. Hand held drill type drives will usually fall in the 0 to 2500 RPM for 3/8 inch drive and 0 to 800 RPM for 1/2 inch drive. Drill presses can be found in a variety of ranges.
When using propeller type blades, several blades may be used on one shaft for improved mixing.
Many blade designs have a manufactures maximum recommended RPM. Please follow these recommendations.
Mixer Type |
Pint |
Quart |
Gallon |
5 Gallon |
| Padco Paint Mixer | X |
X |
-------- |
-------- |
| 2-3 inch Propeller Mixer | -------- |
X |
X |
-------- |
| 2 5/8 inch Jiffy Mixer | -------- |
X |
X |
-------- |
| 4 inch Propeller Mixer | -------- |
-------- |
X |
X |
| 5 inch Jiffy Mixer | -------- |
-------- |
-------- |
X |
| 6 inch Propeller Mixer | -------- |
-------- |
-------- |
X |
| 5 inch Dispersion Mixer | -------- |
-------- |
-------- |
X |