STEAM/WATER STATIC MIXER INJECTOR FOR EXTRUSION EQUIPMENT

摘要

Apparatus (20) for injection of fluid into extrusion system components such as a preconditioner (24) or extruder (100) is provided, preferably as a composite assembly including a fluid injection valve (52) and an interconnected static mixer section (54). Alternately, use may be made of the fluid injection valve (52) or static mixer section (54) alone. The invention greatly simplifies the fluid injection apparatus used in extrusion systems, while giving more efficient absorption of thermal energy with a minimum of environmental contamination, and the ability to inject multiple streams into the extrusion systems.

主权项

1. A preconditioner for preconditioning comestible materials, comprising:
an elongated housing having sidewall structure, a comestible material inlet, a spaced preconditioned comestible material outlet, and a fluid passageway through said sidewall structure and presenting an innermost opening in communication with the interior of the housing; at least one elongated, axially rotatable shaft extending along the length of said housing and having a plurality of outwardly extending mixing elements secured to the shaft; and apparatus for injection of fluid into said housing through said fluid passageway, comprising an elongated static mixer, said static mixer including an elongated casing having a plurality of fluid inlets, at least one of said fluid inlets being a water inlet, and a mixing assembly within said casing and operable to mix said plural fluids including said water for delivery to said housing through said fluid passageway, said preconditioner operable to mix said comestible materials and said fluids including said water, in order to moisturize said comestible materials.