SOLY SK-2000 Planetary Mixer
| Brand | SOLY |
|---|---|
| Origin | Japan |
| Model | SK-2000 |
| Type | Planetary Vacuum Mixer |
| Drive Principle | Dual-axis planetary motion (container rotation + revolution) |
| Maximum Batch Volume | 2000 mL |
| Vacuum Capability | Optional integrated vacuum system (≤10 Pa typical) |
| Speed Range | 0–2500 rpm (revolution), 0–4500 rpm (rotation), independently adjustable |
| Torque Output | Up to 120 N·m (revolution), 85 N·m (rotation) |
| Control Interface | Touchscreen HMI with programmable multi-step protocols |
| Compliance | CE-marked, conforms to IEC 61000-6-2/6-4 EMC standards |
Overview
The SOLY SK-2000 Planetary Mixer is an industrial-grade, dual-axis mixing and degassing system engineered for high-viscosity, shear-sensitive, and air-entrapped materials. Unlike conventional blade, paddle, or roller mixers, it employs true planetary motion—simultaneous rotation (spinning) and revolution (orbital movement) of the mixing container—generating controlled centrifugal and shear forces without internal agitators. This principle enables homogeneous dispersion, particle wetting, and microbubble removal in a single operation, eliminating the need for sequential mixing and post-processing vacuum degassing. Designed for R&D laboratories, pilot-scale production, and quality control environments, the SK-2000 delivers reproducible results across formulations ranging from conductive pastes and battery electrode slurries to optical adhesives, dental composites, and silicone gels.
Key Features
- Dual independent motor drive system: Precisely synchronized revolution and rotation axes ensure consistent torque delivery and eliminate mechanical resonance—even under load variations up to 2000 mL.
- Modular vacuum integration: Optional vacuum chamber or inline vacuum port supports degassing down to ≤10 Pa; compatible with external oil-free vacuum pumps meeting ISO 8573-1 Class 0 purity requirements.
- Programmable multi-stage operation: Up to 99 user-defined steps per protocol—including ramped speed profiles, dwell times, direction reversal, and vacuum activation triggers—with non-volatile memory retention.
- Reinforced stainless-steel frame and sealed gearboxes: Rated IP54 for dust and splash resistance; compliant with ISO 14644-1 Class 8 cleanroom-compatible installation when equipped with optional HEPA-filtered exhaust.
- Real-time monitoring interface: 7-inch capacitive touchscreen displays actual RPM, torque load %, vacuum pressure (if equipped), elapsed time, and error codes with timestamped event logging.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SK-2000 accommodates standard DIN 28120 and ASTM D1200-compliant mixing containers (e.g., 50–2000 mL stainless steel, glass, or PTFE-lined vessels). It handles viscosities from 10 mPa·s (low-shear liquids) to >1,000,000 mPa·s (non-drip pastes) without slippage or vortex formation. All electrical components meet CE directives (2014/30/EU EMC, 2014/35/EU LVD); mechanical safety complies with EN ISO 12100:2010. When operated under validated protocols, data output satisfies GLP/GMP documentation requirements—including audit-trail-capable operation logs traceable to operator ID and timestamp (optional firmware upgrade for 21 CFR Part 11 compliance available).
Software & Data Management
The embedded controller stores all executed protocols and run histories locally (≥10,000 records). USB export enables CSV-formatted data transfer for traceability in LIMS or MES systems. Optional PC-based software (SOLY MixControl Pro v3.2) provides remote parameter adjustment, real-time graphing of torque vs. time, comparative batch analysis, and PDF report generation—including metadata on environmental conditions (ambient temperature/humidity if external sensors are connected). Firmware updates are delivered via signed binary packages to ensure integrity and version control.
Applications
- Battery manufacturing: Homogeneous dispersion of NMC/LFP cathode slurries and graphite anode pastes while removing entrained air that causes coating defects or cell delamination.
- Electronics encapsulation: Degassing silicone, epoxy, and polyurethane compounds prior to dispensing—critical for void-free potting of power modules and MEMS devices.
- Advanced ceramics: Uniform mixing of alumina/zirconia suspensions with dispersants, minimizing agglomerates that compromise sintering density.
- Pharmaceutical excipient blending: Low-shear incorporation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) into high-viscosity ointment bases per USP guidance on mixing uniformity.
- Automotive composites: Preparing carbon-fiber resin matrices (e.g., vinyl ester, BMI) with controlled fiber alignment and minimal microvoid content.
FAQ
What vacuum level can the SK-2000 achieve with the optional vacuum module?
Typical ultimate pressure is ≤10 Pa using a certified oil-free diaphragm pump; actual performance depends on seal integrity, material outgassing rate, and pump capacity.
Is container clamping automated or manual?
Clamping is semi-automatic: pneumatic-assisted locking with mechanical safety interlock; release requires confirmation via HMI to prevent accidental opening under vacuum or rotation.
Can the SK-2000 be integrated into a glovebox environment?
Yes—custom flange-mounted feedthroughs for power, vacuum, and signal lines are available; unit dimensions (W×D×H: 620 × 780 × 1120 mm) allow fitment in standard Class 1000+ gloveboxes.
Does SOLY provide IQ/OQ documentation support?
Factory-issued IQ templates and OQ test protocols are included; on-site qualification assistance and third-party calibration certificates (traceable to JCSS/NIST) are available upon request.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?
Gearbox oil replacement every 5,000 operating hours; periodic verification of belt tension, vacuum seal integrity, and touchscreen calibration per annual PM checklist supplied with the unit.
