Visualization of Vortices in Emulsification Processes

The use of dissolver-discs results in characteristic vortices (trombes). Vortices are also an important phenomenon in emulsification processes. Size and geometry as well as their stability are influenced mainly by the viscosity of the product, the rotation speed and the geometry of the discs, vessels and baffles used and the height of the liquid above the disc. Visualization of vortices carried out in a highly viscous (η = 600 m Pa s), optical transparent fluid are shown and compared to images obtained from real emulsification processes with different dissolver-discs. It is shown how the vortex can be used to ad the disperse phase (oil) into the emulsion and that this oil will merely float on the surface of the emulsion if there is no vortex present.