Conical vs. Flat Bottom: Choosing the Right PerMix Vertical Vacuum Paddle Mixer/Dryer
When it comes to vacuum mixing and drying, PerMix Vertical Vacuum Paddle Mixers/Dryers are engineered for high-performance, efficient, and uniform processing of powders, pastes, and slurries. Available in both conical bottom and flat bottom designs, each configuration offers unique advantages depending on the application. Understanding the differences is key to selecting the right solution for your production needs.
What Are Vertical Vacuum Paddle Mixers/Dryers?
PerMix Vertical Vacuum Paddle Mixers/Dryers combine gentle yet thorough mixing with efficient vacuum drying in a compact vertical footprint. These mixers feature a centrally mounted paddle agitator that rotates and lifts material upward, ensuring uniform blending and enhanced heat transfer. The addition of a vacuum system allows for drying at lower temperatures, preserving product integrity while reducing drying times.
Flat vessel bottom with full-width paddle agitator
Often includes bottom-mounted choppers for de-agglomeration
Central or side discharge
Advantages:
Higher mixing intensity, ideal for agglomerated or cohesive materials
Easier to integrate with bottom choppers, spray nozzles, and liquid injection systems
More stable design for mounting load cells and platforms
Generally lower overall height, beneficial for facilities with height restrictions
Disadvantages:
Slightly more product hold-up compared to conical bottom
Discharge may require additional mechanical assistance for sticky materials
Ideal Applications:
Plant-Based Proteins & Powders
Pharmaceutical Intermediates
Nutraceuticals with agglomeration issues
Slurries or materials requiring intensive shearing or liquid addition
Which Design Is Right for You?
Feature/Need
Conical Bottom
Flat Bottom
Efficient discharge of sticky materials
✅
❌
Height-limited facility
❌
✅
High-intensity mixing with choppers
❌
✅
Minimal product hold-up
✅
❌
Better for dry, free-flowing powders
✅
✅
Better for cohesive, agglomerated materials
❌
✅
PerMix Advantage: Tailored Solutions for Every Industry
Whether you choose a conical bottom or flat bottom vertical vacuum paddle mixer/dryer, PerMix ensures industry-leading engineering, quality, and value. Our mixers are available with:
304/316 stainless steel, Hastelloy, or Hardox construction
Heating & cooling jackets for precise temperature control
Load cells for gain-in-weight or loss-in-weight batching
Full vacuum & pressure capabilities
Sanitary & pharmaceutical-grade finishes
CIP or dry-cleaning options
Customizable controls with PLC/HMI & recipe storage
Final Thoughts
The decision between a conical bottom or flat bottom vertical vacuum paddle mixer/dryer** depends on your product, process, and facility layout. PerMix offers both designs — along with the expertise to help you choose the one that delivers maximum efficiency and ROI.
Contact PerMix today to discuss your application and discover why we’re the global leader in vacuum mixing and drying technology. In the UK, contact PerMix UK
