What is the difference between a Laboratory Vacuum Emulsifier and Laboratory High Shear Mixer machine?

The Laboratory Vacuum Emulsifier is a closed, multi-functional mixing system equipped with high shear mixing, vacuum, heating/cooling, and often automated control features. Companies use it mainly for small-batch or R&D production where high-quality, uniform emulsions are essential and viscous emulsions and sensitive formulations. The goal is to create creams, lotions, ointments, gels, mayonnaise, etc.

The Key Features are:

• Vacuum system: Removes air/bubbles for smoother, more stable emulsions.
• High shear homogenizer inside the main tank.
• Closed mixing vessel with precise temperature and pressure control.
• Often includes heating/cooling jackets for thermal processes.
• Typically includes pre-phase tanks (oil and water) for melting ingredients before emulsification.

The Advantages are:

• Superior emulsion stability
• Air-free mixing, improving shelf life
• Better temperature control
• Cleaner and safer for GMP environments

See our article: Introduction of Laboratory Vacuum Emulsification Mixer Machine for a full guide.

Laboratory High Shear Mixer uses a rotor-stator system to create intense mechanical shear, breaking down and mixing materials rapidly. It is used to dispersing powders into liquids, creating suspensions, solutions or create simple emulsions for low- to medium-viscosity products

The Key Features:

• Open or semi-closed tank
• May be handheld, bench-top, or tank-mounted
• Simple and compact design

The Advantages are:

• Faster mixing for many applications
• Lower cost and easier to clean
• Portable and suitable for early-stage development

Before choosing between the two machines, it's essential to clearly define the specific needs and what are essential requirements for your materials, the features or specifications that are optional or unnecessary for your application.

If you are looking for a machine for high quality result with fine and stable emulsions and heating and cooling option, the Laboratory Vacuum Emulsifier. If the high quality is not a priority, just a good mixer for a lower budget, the Laboratory High Shear Mixer is better.

Here is a comparative chart to compare them.

You can also contact us to have more information to choose the best machine.