The CAT X1740 / DK40 Inline Benchtop Homogenizer
This homogenizer ensures cannabinoid and terpene uniformity. The average cannabinoid potency deviation is 1% – 1.5%. This is achieved by controlling the dwell time of formulations in the unit’s DK40 flow-through homogenizing chamber.
Two Options for Flow Control
As described in the video by CAT Scientific’s Bob Wilcox, operators of the CAT X1740/DK40 inline homogenizer can exercise complete control of cannabis solution flow by adjusting the speed of the X1740 drive motor from 2500 to 23,000 rpm and/or restricting the flow by adjusting the outlet valve discharging into the top the storage vessel. This extends dwell time in the homogenizer. A 30-gallon vessel is used in the demonstration.
Extending dwell time in the homogenizer can result in undesirable heat buildup. This is solved by the chamber’s cooling jacket through which a coolant can circulate to avoid overheating the product.
How Homogenizers Achieve Fast Cannabis Infusion Processing
CAT Scientific homogenizers are widely used because they are highly versatile tools to homogenize, emulsify, disrupt, mix, blend, macerate and otherwise process materials to support R&D, pilot production and similar activities across a broad range of industries.
Homogenizers consist of a generator assembly comprised of a slotted stator affixed to a compatible generator tube available in various lengths.
The tube encases a shaft (or axle) to which is attached a rotor that fits into and matches the function of the stator. The assembly is fitted into the X1740 homogenizer motor (or driver) that drives the axle and rotor at controllable speeds.
In this instance the assembly is affixed to a horizontal mounting plate and the generator is housed in the attached DK40 inline homogenizer.
When the unit filled with the solution and the motor activated the rotor draws material into the assembly and whips it through the stator slots thereby achieving homogenization.
As the CAT homogenizer continues to operate all of the material in the container will pass through the rotor-stator assembly to be processed, the time depending on the size of the container, dwell time in the homogenizer and the objective of the homogenization activity.
For a more detailed look at homogenization see our document Modular Homogenizer Systems.
Special Note to Cannabis Solution Processors
As the video makes clear this rotor-stator inline homogenizing system is not self-priming. The inlet tube and flow-through chamber must be filled before the homogenizing process is initiated.
Place the sample container at the same level as the chamber and be certain that the sample enters the chamber before turning the drive motor on. As an alternative a pump can be used deliver product to the homogenizer.
Bob Wilcox has represented CAT Scientific’s family of liquid metering, homogenizing, magnetic stirring, and related laboratory equipment since 2002. In addition to heading the sales function in the US he is chief technician for the CAT equipment service organization.