Mixing the Future of Renewable Energy

In the fast-evolving world of renewable energy, biofuels are transforming how we power transportation, industry, and the planet. From biodiesel and bioethanol to biogas and next-generation algal oils, one constant remains: precise, efficient mixing defines performance and profitability.

PerMix engineers advanced mixing systems that optimise reaction kinetics, ensure uniform dispersion, and stabilise temperature and phase behaviour—giving biofuel manufacturers higher yields, lower costs, and cleaner results.

The Critical Role of Mixing in Biofuel Production

Every litre of biofuel begins with a complex chemical or biological transformation. Feedstocks must be blended, catalysts dispersed, and multi-phase reactions precisely controlled. Poor mixing leads to unreacted oil, phase separation, energy waste, and off-spec fuel.

PerMix systems are designed to eliminate those risks. Our mixers enhance mass transfer, maintain homogeneity, and deliver the process consistency modern biofuel production demands.

Mixing Challenges in Biofuel Manufacturing

Biofuels production involves diverse feedstocks and complex reactions. Each introduces unique challenges:

• Multiphase systems: Oil, alcohol, catalysts, and biomass often coexist—uniform mixing ensures complete conversion.
• Variable viscosity: As reactions progress, the mixture thickens or thins dramatically.
• Temperature control: Exothermic reactions can create hotspots, reducing efficiency or degrading product quality.
• Gas evolution: In fermentation or digestion, gas bubbles must be released without disrupting mixing.
• Abrasive residues: Biomass particles and catalysts wear down conventional equipment.
• Cross-contamination risk: Switching feedstocks requires clean-in-place capability and sanitary design.

PerMix mixers are built to master these extremes—keeping production stable, efficient, and scalable.

Key Stages Where Mixing Drives Performance

1. Feedstock Preparation & Pretreatment

Homogenising oils, fats, or biomass with catalysts, methanol, and co-solvents ensures full contact before reaction begins.

2. Reaction & Conversion

Controlled shear and temperature maintain even catalyst distribution and maximise reaction yield during transesterification or enzymatic conversion.

3. Separation & Washing

Gentle agitation allows clean phase separation while avoiding stable emulsions.

4. Neutralisation & Polishing

Precise blending of water, acids, or surfactants removes residues and neutralises catalysts.

5. Final Blending

Homogeneous mixing of additives and stabilisers delivers fuel that meets specification every time.

Mixer Selection and Trade-Offs in Biofuels

PerMix engineers each mixer around the customer’s process—balancing shear, temperature, flow, and residence time to optimise yield and reliability.

How PerMix Answers the Biofuels Challenge

PerMix combines deep process understanding with practical engineering to solve the toughest challenges in biofuel mixing.

Engineered Precision

• Variable shear zones for efficient wet-out and dispersion.
• Jacketed vessels for heating, cooling, or exothermic control.
• Vacuum and pressure capability for degassing or volatile phase handling.
• Custom seals and bearings resistant to catalyst corrosion and abrasives.
• 316L, Hardox, Hastelloy, or titanium construction for chemical and wear resistance.
• Full automation and data monitoring for torque, viscosity, and temperature control.

Process Efficiency

PerMix mixers reduce mixing time, energy usage, and maintenance downtime. Our designs maintain uniform reaction conditions, enabling faster conversion and higher purity output—all while lowering operational costs.

Results that Matter

Biofuel producers who switch to PerMix achieve:

• Up to 25 % faster reaction times through improved dispersion.
• Reduced energy consumption by optimised impeller geometry and jacket efficiency.
• Higher conversion yield with precise control over shear and temperature.
• Longer equipment life due to robust materials and smart sealing systems.

Each system is engineered for long-term ROI and real-world reliability.

FAQs

Q: Can PerMix mixers handle both biodiesel and ethanol processes?
A: Yes. Our systems are fully configurable for chemical, enzymatic, or fermentation-based routes.

Q: How do I prevent phase separation during biodiesel washing?
A: Use gentle, controlled agitation and temperature uniformity—features built into every PerMix design.

Q: Are PerMix mixers suitable for biogas slurry mixing?
A: Absolutely. We offer heavy-duty paddle and dual-shaft designs optimised for solids suspension and gas retention.

Q: What materials are best for biofuel reactors?
A: For corrosive catalysts, 316L stainless or Hastelloy are preferred; for abrasive biomass, Hardox or coated surfaces are ideal.

Partner with PerMix

From small-scale pilot projects to full industrial biofuel facilities, PerMix UK provides the engineering expertise and technology to keep production efficient, sustainable, and profitable.

PerMix UK – Mixing the Future of Renewable Energy.