Frequently Asked Questions

Click on the questions below to see the answer. If you do not see your question below, please feel free to contact us directly.

• I have a need for a stirrer with a digital readout and the ability to maintain constant stirring speed despite any voltage fluctuations. Can a Caframo overhead overhead stirrer be used?
  All of our stirrers maintain speed as viscosity changes. The power supply on the BDC2002 and BDC2010 is a universal voltage power supply which means a fluctuation in voltage will not hinder the operation of the stirrer.
• Do Caframo stirrers maintain speed (rpm) if the viscosity changes?
  Yes. Caframo stirrers are digitally controlled. The speed is kept constant with continuous feedback to the motor. The set speed is maintained as the solution viscosity changes.
• Are Caframo stirrers explosion proof?
  All Caframo stirrers are built with a brushless DC (BDC) motor which is sparkless. Although this is the case, Caframo stirrers are not deemed intrinsically safe (or explosion proof) as they have not been tested and approved for opweration in Class I, Div II requirements.
• What does it mean when the overload LED lights up (BDC1850, BDC3030, BDC6015) or "OL" is displayed (BDC2002, BDC2010)?
  The stirrer is mixing something thicker than it is intended for and has shut down so that the motor is protected. Turn the power off, reduce the load and turn the power back on to continue operations. Refer to the owners manual for more information.
• What maintenance is required for Caframo stirrer owners?
  Caframo overhead stirrers are maintenance free. All are manufactured with a brushless DC motor which is efficient and has a long very long life. There are no brushes that need replacing. The only wear parts are the belts of the transmission of the BDC1850, BDC303 and BDC6015.
• I have a BDC3030 (or BDC1850, or BDC6015) and I notice that when I turn it on it does not start mixing right away. Why is this?
  Caframo stirrers are designed with safety in mind. When the high torque stirrers are turned on they start in "pause". To start mixing, press the "pause" button. this allows the user to always be in control of the mixing.

• What Caframo overhead stirrer models display torque?
  The high torque overhead stirrer models BDC1850, BDC3030, and BDC6015 all display torque when the display button is pressed on the keypad. Torque is displayed in N-cm.
• How do I convert between N-cm, In-lb and in-oz?
  The conversions are as follows:
  In-lb to In-oz: multiply by 16
  In-lb to N-cm: multiply by 11.36
  N-cm to In-oz: multiply by 1.416
  
  To convert the reverse, divide by the same numbers.
• Are Caframo stirrers calibrated?
  The BDC1850, BDC3030 and BDC6015 are calibrated for torque and speed. Calibration certificates are shipped with each stirrer.

• How do I choose a mixing impeller?
  To choose an impeller the volume of the mixture, the size of the mixing vessel and the viscosity of the mixture should be known. The diameter of the mixing blade should measure one third of the diameter of the vessel, and be placed a distance of one third the diameter of the vessel up from the bottom of the vessel.
  
  For thicker mixtures, use a square or "U" shaped anchor paddle. These paddles have more surface area to contact the thick product being mixed. Because thicker mixtures are usually mixed more slowly a paddle diameter closer to the full diameter of the vessel can be used so that the product close to the edge of the vessel is mixed. (A150, A250 are examples of square blade paddles; U022, U044, U055, U510 or A183 are examples of anchor paddles).
• The paddle I need is not listed on your website. Can you make what I need?
  We are happy to make custom paddles. Email or fax a drawing showing the specifications you need and a quotation outlining a part number, price and delivery will be emailed or faxed back for approval.
• How do I reduce the vortexing I am experiencing with my propeller?
  A baffle (A170) can be used in the vessel to reduce vortexing or the stirrer can be rotated slightly in the clamp so that the mixing shaft is not perpendicular. With the impeller on an angle, the vortex is broken and the introduction of air is minimized.
• What is electropolishing?
  All stainless steel impellers and blades from Caframo are electropolished. Electropolishing is an electrochemical treatment performed on stainless steel to obtain a smooth, corrosion-resistant finish. This process also passivates the stainless steel by removing elemental iron and increasing the chromium concentration on the surface and nickel just beneath. The result is a chemically inactive part. Note that the process does not coat the part.
  
  Along with the improved appearance, electropolishing provides the following benefits:

  • Reduces stress-related cracking and metal fatigue
  • Increases the life span of the part
  • Optimizes sterilization as parts are easy and quick to clean

  
  Electropolished parts are used in the following industries:

  • Aerospace and automotive
  • Water purification
  • Food and beverage
  • Medical
  • Petrochemical
  • Pharmaceutical and cosmetic
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• What are all the parts I need to start mixing?
  To start mixing the following parts are needed: stirrer motor, clamp, stand and mixing impeller. Go to the "Products" section to find the stirrers and accessories available. The Caframo BDC250 Petite stirrer comes as a package. It includes the stirrer motor, integral clamp, stand, and two mixing impellers (axial and straight blade).
• What shaft diameter will a Caframo chuck accept?
  The same sized chuck is used for all Caframo overhead stirrers with the exception of the BDC250 Petite. The chuck will accept a shaft from 5 mm to 10 mm (0.2'' to 0.5''). Shafts are typically 3/8'' (9.5 mm) or 5/16'' (8 mm) in diameter. The BDC250 Petite chuck will accept a 6 mm (1/5'') shaft.
• What is the outer diameter of the motor output shaft (where the chuck attaches)?
  Caframo overhead stirrers have a motor shaft outer diameter of 0.511'' (13 mm). This is just slightly larger than a 1/2''.
• What are the diameters of the A110 and A210 stand rods that Caframo offers?
  The rod for the A110 stand has a diameter of 1'' and is 28'' long. It can be used with the BDC1850, BDC3030, BDC6015, BDC2002, or BDC2010. The rod for the A210 stand has a diameter of 5/8'' and is 24'' long. It is used with the BDC2010 or BDC2002.
• What are the A110 and A210 stand bases and A120 clamp made of?
  The stand bases and clamp are cast zinc-aluminium and painted with a chemical resistant epoxy.

• Who sells stirrers?
  Caframo overhead stirrers are sold worldwide by distributors. Go to the "Where to Buy" section under "Customer Support" to find the listings of Canadian, American, Mexican and International Distributors.
• Can I buy directly from Caframo?
  Caframo stirrers and accessories are sold exclusively through distributors. Caframo does not sell direct. Go to the "Where to Buy" section under "Customer Support" to find the listing of Canadian, American, Mexican, and International Distributors.

• Do you drop ship?
  Yes. Caframo stirrers and accessories are shipped from stock.