Planetary Mixers
A planetary mixer operates by combining planetary rotation with centrifugal force. The mixing container spins on its axis while orbiting around a central point, ensuring effective blending and dispersion of materials.
Different planetary mixers are required for different container sizes.
Some important points to consider when using planetary mixers:
- Fastest non-MMD process times
- Simple process
- High price point
- Sealed mixing container
- Mixing capacity up to 2000 g
The table below compares the two models of planetary mixer that have been validated by Carbon.
Mixer | Max Capacity | Hands-On Time | Machine Time | Total Process Time | Equipment Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Kakuhunter SK-300SII | 300 g | 3 minutes | 6 minutes | 9 minutes | $$$ |
Kakuhunter SK-1100T | 2000 g | 5 minutes | 7 minutes | 12 minutes | $$$$ |
This mixer generates strong centrifugal force during operation. Because of this, a counterbalance must be placed opposite the resin container. Smaller models can have an adjustable weight built into the mixer. Larger models may require the addition of a second container filled with water or an equivalent amount of resin.
Model | Max Capacity | Tips | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Kakuhunter SK-300SII | 300 mL | - | $$$ |
Kakuhunter SK-1100T | 1100 mL x2 = 2200 mL | Can mix two 1100 mL containers at once | $$$$ |
Best practice dictates using 50% of the total capacity for mixing (for example, 150 mL of a 300 mL cup). This ensures good mixing action. See the Kakuhunter Processing Capacity handout below for information.
General
Processing Capacity of Kakuhunter Mixers
Kakuhunter SK-300SII (300 mL capacity)
Quick Start
User Manual
Kakuhunter SK-1100T (2200 mL capacity)
- Planetary mixing containers or cups typically feature a container with a seal and screw lid to keep resin contained during the high speed rotation of the mixer.
- Various sizes and adapters are available for planetary mixers.
Consult the product manual for specific instructions about operation.
Load the mixer
- Push the inner seal into the top of the cup.
- Screw the lid over the seal and cup.
- Insert the cup into the mixer. Make sure it is aligned with the tab.
Set the counterweight
Follow the instructions for your particular mixer model.
SK-300SII
- Weigh the total mass of the cup and resin.
- Set the counterweight dial to equal the mass of the cup and resin.
SK-1100T
- In another mixing cup, add water with the same mass as the resin in the resin cup.
- Push the inner seal into the cup and screw the lid on.
- Place the water cup in the position across from the resin cup.
- Alternately, if you’d like to mix more resin, fill the second mixing cup with the same mass (+/- 100 g) as the first. Close the lid and place across from the first resin cup.
Choose the mixing program
Follow the instructions for your particular mixer model.
SK-300SII
- Mix for 4 min, 2000 RPM.
- Degas for 30 seconds at 2200 RPM
SK-1100T
- Preset program 1
Remove cups from mixer
- When mixing is complete, remove the container(s) from the mixer.
- Unscrew the lid, remove the seal and dispense resin into the printer cassette. Begin printing promptly in order to maximize pot life.