Emulsification is the process by which two naturally immiscible liquids are forcefully mixed together. Salad vinaigrettes, mayonnaise, butter, cold creams, lip balms and medicated ointments are all examples of emulsions. Depending on the ratio of oil to water, emulsions are typically categorized as either oil suspended in water (o/w) or water suspended in oil (w/o). Using the right emulsifying agent and the right kind of force, you can compel either type of mixture, effectively manufacturing many textile, plastic and paper products and improving the stability, bioavailability and viability for a variety of food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical ones (among others). Take a look at how a high pressure homogenizer can improve the oil emulsification process in particular, giving you better products in less time:
But First…The Difference Between an Emulsifier and a Homogenizer
Both emulsifiers and homogenizers forcefully mix many substances. But while an emulsifier only makes use of one type of mechanical force, a homogenizer makes use of many. At BEE International, our proprietary homogenizing system combines turbulent premixing with product progression through highly pressurized spaces, utilizing shear, cavitation and impact to break apart particles and uniformly mix and blend them. The result is a product with multiple benefits.
The Benefits of Using a Homogenizer in the Oil Emulsification Process
The benefits of using a homogenizer to create emulsified products are two-fold:
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It Reduces Particle Size
The high pressure and additional forces used by high pressure homogenizing systems (like those with our patented BEE International Emulsifying Cell technology) drastically reduce product particle size. Sub-micro particles have more surface area per particle, which means each has more opportunity to interact with another. This not only makes it easier for mixing agents to do their job (after all, they have a larger area on which to apply their “glue”), it also creates a final product with identical (i.e., homogenous) properties, improving the texture, consistency and appearance of many consumables, (especially important for those in the food and cosmetic markets) and increasing the bioavailability of drugs for the pharmaceutical industry.
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It Efficiently and Effectively Mixes Resistant Substances
The vigorous and multiple forces utilized by homogenizers make it harder for product particles to resist initial mixing and harder for them to separate afterwards. It also allows for large volume processing since homogenizers have greater capacities than traditional emulsifiers. The ability to create more stable products with longer shelf lives in shorter amounts of time with fewer passes saves time and money, valuable benefits for companies wanting to make the most of their resources.
Ready To Learn More?
The value of a high pressure homogenizer extends far beyond mere mixing of substances, making it the equipment of choice for companies wanting to maximize their processes while still achieving a superior meld. If you need assistance determining if or how homogenizers can improve your manufacturing turnover, as well as provide you with superior oil emulsifications, contact our team at BEE International. Our HPP homogenizers aid all types of businesses, including those in the food, pharmaceutical, chemical, biofuel and cosmetic industries and more.
Feel free to also download our free eBook, "How to Achieve Efficient & Consistent Particle Size Reduction," for additional information about the value of smaller particle size within a manufacturing context.
