INDAG - Dynamic mixer (DLM/P)
The INDAG DLM/P dynamic mixer is a continuous in-line mixer manufactured by INDAG Maschinenbau GmbH (Ivenfleth 13, 25376 Borsfleth, Germany). The company was founded by Martin Willun in 1953. Initially, it manufactured internal gear pumps for viscous media. Today, INDAG has over 70 years’ experience and specialises in dynamic in-line mixers under the FlowMix® brand. Production is certified to DIN EN ISO 9001:2015.
The DLM/P is designed for the homogeneous mixing of shear-sensitive and high-viscosity liquids. Throughput: 50 to 20,000 litres per hour. Medium temperature: 0 to 250 °C. Viscosity: 1 to 1,000,000 mPa·s. The temperature rise of the product during mixing does not exceed 1 °C.
INDAG DLM/P dynamic mixer: technical specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Productivity | 50–20,000 litres per hour |
| Rotor speed | 100–1,500 rpm |
| Medium temperature | 0–250 °C |
| Viscosity of the medium | 1–1,000,000 mPa·s |
| Pressure classes | 6, 10, 16, 25, 40 bar |
| Material | 1.4404 (AISI 316L), premium quality to order |
| Mixing elements | round-profile pins on the rotor and in the stator |
| Accession | DIN 11851, DIN 11864, Tri-Clamp, SMS, others available on request |
| Shaft seal | single-end, double-end (including aseptic), gland-sealed |
| Implementation | Compact KB, with LB bearing unit |
| Regulations | horizontal or vertical |
The rotor and stator can be manufactured with heating or cooling. Versions with a double jacket and additional connections are available. For double mechanical seals, INDAG supplies a barrier fluid system.
Five DLM/P sizes
| Type | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity, l/h | 100–800 | 300–1,500 | 500–4,000 | 1,000–10,000 | 2,000–20,000 |
| Connection, DN | 32–50 | 40–80 | 65–100 | 80–125 | 80–150 |
| ASME connection, optional | 1.5–2″ | 1¾–3″ | 2.5–4″ | 4–5″ | 3–6″ |
| Power, kW | 1.5–7.5 | 2.2–22 | 4–35 | 5.5–55 | 11–75 |
| Rotational speed, rpm | 200–1,000 | 200–1,000 | 200–1,000 | 100–1,000 | 100–1,000 |
| KB mixing stage | DLM/P-208 KB | DLM/P-308 KB | DLM/P-408 KB | DLM/P-508 KB | DLM/P-608 KB |
| LB mixing stage | DLM/P-220 LB | DLM/P-320 LB | DLM/P-420 LB | DLM/P-520 LB | DLM/P-620 LB |
Output, power and rotational speed depend on the specific product. Therefore, the model size is determined not only by the flow rate, but also by the viscosity and formulation.
How pin-type mixing elements work
The DLM/P rotor and stator are fitted with round-profile pin elements. The pins are fitted both on the rotor and inside the stator housing. The product passes between them and is redistributed repeatedly.
The circular cross-section has two practical implications. Firstly, the elements are mechanically very strong. Secondly, they do not create localised areas of high shear stress. This is precisely why the DLM/P can handle viscosities in excess of 1,000,000 mPa·s without damaging shear-sensitive structures. Aerated foams and whipped mixtures pass through the mixer without settling.
The mixing energy is applied efficiently and is controlled by the rotational speed. This allows the mixer to be adjusted to accommodate changes in product or throughput without the need to replace the equipment. The design does not cause any hydraulic pressure losses.
Two design variants: KB and LB
In the compact KB version, the rotor is mounted directly on the motor’s output shaft. This is a shorter and cheaper unit.
In the LB version, the rotor has its own bearing assembly. This allows for longer rotors and, consequently, larger mixing volumes. The LB version is also suitable for operation under high pressure or at high temperatures.
The type of shaft seal is selected to suit the specific application. For aseptic processes, a double mechanical seal in an aseptic design is available.
How the INDAG dynamic mixer benefits production
The INDAG DLM/P dynamic mixer tackles a problem that static mixers cannot handle — the introduction of a small proportion of additive into a large flow.
A homogeneous result is achieved even at extreme concentration ratios. The manufacturer gives the example of an additive content of 0.01 per cent of the total quantity. The result remains completely homogeneous in this case.
The temperature rise of the product does not exceed 1 °C. This is critical for chocolate and fat mixtures: overheating alters the crystalline structure. The design ensures effective self-cleaning during CIP washing, so the mixer does not need to be dismantled between batches.
What products is DLM/P intended for?
The manufacturer cites the addition of flavourings, colourings and emulsifiers to fat or chocolate mass as a typical application.
In practice, this covers: chocolate and fat-based mixtures, fillings and glazes, aerated mousses and whipped desserts, high-viscosity sauces and pastes, and products with a high solid content. For non-food applications where shear resistance is not a concern, INDAG produces a separate version, the DLM/P non-food.
The food production equipment supplied by Steiner Ukraine is assembled in in a separate section. Mixing systems — in the section pumping and mixing systems.
How does DLM/P differ from DLM/M, DLM/S and DLM/H?
INDAG manufactures four basic types of in-line mixers. They differ in the shape of the mixing element and the shear intensity.
| Type | Element | Rotational speed | Productivity | Viscosity, max. | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DLM/M | bladed | 100–1,800 rpm | 50–120,000 litres per hour | 50,000 mPa·s | mixing as gently as possible |
| DLM/P | round pins | 100–1,500 rpm | 50–20,000 litres per hour | 1,000,000 mPa·s | careful mixing of highly viscous materials |
| DLM/S | star-studded | 200–3,600 rpm | 50–120,000 litres per hour | 10,000,000 mPa·s | vigorous mixing |
| DLM/H | high-shear | 1,500–6,000 rpm | 50–120,000 litres per hour | 500,000 mPa·s | emulsification and dispersion |
All four types operate within the range of 0–250 °C. The choice is determined by two parameters: the viscosity of the product and its sensitivity to shear. The DLM/P is in the middle of the scale: high viscosity at low shear.
If it is necessary to break up agglomerates or create a stable emulsion, one takes DLM/H homogeniser. It operates at 1,500–6,000 rpm and is specifically designed for emulsification and dispersion. All the manufacturer’s products are available at the INDAG page.
How to choose an INDAG dynamic mixer at Steiner Ukraine
Seven pieces of data are required for the calculation: flow rate in litres per hour, the name and composition of the product, its viscosity, inlet temperature, the proportion and type of additive, the operating pressure in the line, and the connection type.
The product’s sensitivity to shear is specified separately. It is this factor that determines the choice between DLM/M, DLM/P, DLM/S and DLM/H. Another consideration is whether an aseptic seal is required.
Steiner Ukraine supplies INDAG equipment, including design, configuration, commissioning and spare parts. The scope is described in the section services. Related entries — in the section process equipment. Sector-specific recruitment — in sector-specific solutions. The technical specifications of the original source are published at the INDAG website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the output of the INDAG DLM/P dynamic mixer?
From 50 to 20,000 litres per hour. The exact figure depends on the model: from 100–800 litres per hour for Type 2 to 2,000–20,000 litres per hour for Type 6.
How many sizes are there in the DLM/P range?
Five — from Type 2 to Type 6. Each is available in the compact KB version and in the LB version with a bearing block.
What pressure is the DLM/P rated for?
The mixer is available in five pressure ratings: 6, 10, 16, 25 and 40 bar. The rating is selected to match the operating pressure of the line.
Does the mixer heat the food?
The temperature rise does not exceed 1 °C. For chocolate and fat mixtures, this is the main reason for choosing the DLM/P.
Can you wash the mixer without taking it apart?
Yes. The manufacturer claims that the design self-cleans effectively during CIP cleaning.
What is the maximum viscosity of the product?
1,000,000 mPa·s. This is achieved by round-profile pin elements, which are mechanically very strong.
Which INDAG mixer should I choose for making emulsions?
Not the DLM/P, but the DLM/H homogeniser. It operates at 1,500–6,000 rpm and is designed for emulsification and dispersion.
How much does the INDAG DLM/P dynamic mixer cost?
The price depends on the size, pressure class, KB or LB version, seal type and drive power. An aseptic double mechanical seal has a significant impact on the cost. Please provide the flow rate, composition and viscosity of the product — we will prepare a quotation.
