Selection Tips for Lab Homogenizer Generators

Rotor-Stator Generator Components

Homogenizer generators – the working end of lab homogenizers that perform mixing, dispersing, emulsifying, and similar operations in research and pilot plant studies – are two-part assemblies.  The first component is a rotating rotor attached by a rod to the drive motor.  The rotor is a precisely machined tool with multiple sharply machined blades.  Rotor configuration and size are designed to efficiently accomplish the homogenizing task being performed.

The second component is the stator, likewise a precisely machined tool with sharply machined slots that compliment the design of the rotor blades. The round stator is screwed into a tube that is affixed to the drive motor housing, and which encases the rotor rod.
The important takeaway here is that rotor and stator configuration – the sizing and spacing of rotor blades and stator slots – is what governs the particular function of the lab homogenizer.

CAT Scientific homogenizer drives can accept a range of generator assemblies, depending on models.  This feature adds to their versatility in research and pilot plant labs.

The simple swap out-swap in exercise is accomplished by removing the stator by unscrewing it from the tube; the rotor and its shaft can likewise be changed out for a different configuration designed for the stator. Tools are available for this exercise.  Check our video on cleaning homogenizers for a quick description on assembly and disassembly involved in changing generator components.

CAT Homogenizer Selection Criteria  

Selecting a homogenizer generator begins with developing a list of tasks you plan to perform with the equipment.  At the outset take into account factors including volume, speed, viscosity, and the drive motors suitable for the process.  This enables you to focus in on options to make the correct selection – or selections as the case may be.

To help, we offer this selection checklist:

• What are you doing with the homogenizer? These tools are used to emulsify, disrupt, disperse, disintegrate and otherwise reduce samples for further processing.
• What material(s) are you working with?  CAT dispersing tools are designed to work with medium, low and fine viscosity materials as well as a knife configuration for stringy or fibrous materials.
• What about sealed or non-sealed shafts and bearings?  While bearings are common in all shafts to keep the rotor rod centered, shaft seals protect O-rings, ball bearings, springs, retaining rings, discs, and other delicate components from harsh or abrasive media.
• Should the shaft tube have ports? Ports allow media to circulate and cool the assembly.  Use tubes without ports when working with samples under pressure, in a vacuum or for use with abrasive or adhesive type media.
• What is the size of your mixing container?  This will govern the length and diameter of the entire generator assembly.  CAT offers assemblies from 105 to 360mm long and diameters from 6 to 20mm.
• What is the proper drive motor for your generator?   Not all generator assembles are suitable for all drive motors.
• Etc.

This is a lot to think about.  We’re ready to help you specify the correct homogenizer generator assembly.  The time you take to compete or Homogeniser Questionnaire will be well spent compared to the aggravation of making the wrong decision.
—————–