Vertical and horizontal mixing equipment serves a variety of functions in today's economy. Whether your business needs to mix vitamins, coffee or concrete, horizontal and vertical blenders and mixing equipment come in a variety of styles and weights.

Several categories of blenders and mixers exist on the market today for businesses and industrial purposes. Three of the more common types include horizontal ribbon blenders and mixers, cone screw vertical blenders and mixers, and tumble blenders and mixers.

As you choose a blender or mixer, consider the following:

1. The type you need will greatly be defined by your purpose. Your vertical or horizontal blender's primary function can help you decide the weight and size of the blender you need, as well as the elements of its design.

2. The floor space your horizontal or vertical mixing equipment will need may also impact your decision.

3. Horizontal and vertical blenders and mixing equipment also require a consistent power supply.

4. Finally, defining your budget, as you shop for your horizontal and vertical blenders and mixing equipment, may also determine which model you buy.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

A horizontal blender may be your most cost-effective choice

Often the most cost-effective solutions on the market, horizontal blenders traditionally contain helical ribbons or paddles, which mix the contents radially or laterally. Like all horizontal blenders and mixers, horizontal food mixers and horizontal food blenders usually run at a recommended 40-50% capacity and can be designed to create a blend without lumps. They do generate slightly more heat than the other types of mixers and blenders but can save overhead space.

I recommend: In business since 1823, Munson Machinery Co., Inc. sells ribbon and plow blenders, as well as rotary batch mixers. Reynolds Industries, Inc. specializes in a variety of mixers and blenders, including horizontal and ribbon mixers.

Choose a vertical blender for limited space

Vertical blenders typically take up less floor space. They can also usually run at smaller capacity levels and many manufacturers design them to be easier to clean. Some models offer thermal jacketing for buyers. Vertical blenders may also offer greater contamination protection than other types of blenders and mixers.

I recommend: Charles Ross & Son Company also sells horizontal ribbon and paddle blenders, as well as cone screw vertical blenders and tumble blenders. Plus, they may be able to customize or rent a blender or mixer to you, as may Silverson Machines, Inc. For another manufacturer of inclined blenders and horizontal blenders, try Lee Industries.

When selecting vertical mixing equipment, consider a tumble blender for gentle mixing

A tumble blender usually offers greater blending accuracy as well as gentle blending and can operate at a limited capacity.

I recommend: Tumble Drum Ind. may be able to meet your mixing needs. Cleveland Eastern Mixers carries a wide selection of blenders.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Plan ahead as you shop for your vertical and horizontal blenders or mixers. Whether you need an industrial vertical food blender, an industrial horizontal food blender or a blender for concrete or chemicals, manufacturers may need time to build and ship your blender or mixer.
• •  As you consider your options for a vertical blender or mixer or a horizontal blender or mixer, check to see if your manufacturer offers trial periods.