How to choose the right mixing paddle for your drill or mixer?

11th March 2020


	How to choose the right mixing paddle for your material?


	Get the latest prices for mixing paddles


			When selecting the correct mixing paddle you must choose the paddle design for its mix action.For example, if its blade performs with a high suction movement then it is suitable for plaster, as you should avoid getting air in this mix. You should also consider the litre capacity that is going to be mixed, and select a suitable sized paddle.

			Paddle size
			Allow for the paddle’s diameter to be between a third and a half of the mixing tub or container.Choose a drill or mixer for its power and speed to generate the best possible outcome for the mix.

			For example, if the diameter of the paddle is 120 mm (5 inch) then the mixing container or tub would need to be between 240-360 mm (10-15 inch).It has to be measured this way so that the paddle fits in the container comfortably without getting stuck or damaging the container.

			Semi-rounded head designs
			This semi-rounded head which can only be found on this type of mixing paddle, is constructed with a grid at its centre which enables easy and clean mashing.The grid allows you to hand mash plaster by lifting it up and down, with the plaster being able to escape through the grid back into the tub or container. Using this instrument is exactly like mashing potato, however, you cannot mash plaster with a potato masher as it would not be able to withstand the weight of the plaster and eventually damage the potato masher.


			Wheel paddle designs
			This paddle design with its ‘aluminium wheel’ and ‘steel tubular shaft’ means it is ideal for heavy duty work.This mixing paddle is to be used by hand, while the wheel is placed into the mix. As this instrument has a T shaped handle it gives the user more control so the wheel can be pushed from top to bottom and pulled from bottom to top with the mix being able to pass freely through the center of the wheel as it is mashed making sure nothing is missed.

			Gate paddle designs
			It has the name ‘Gate Paddle’ because its blade is similarly shaped to a large gate. This paddle design is suitable for slow speed drills because it only needs a minimal power consumption to produce a low drag, while mixing lightweight materials such as plaster, self levelling compound and similar materials.The gate paddle creates a low shear mix action. This is a constant movement of the paddle using the least amount of energy as possible while keeping the material in motion.

			Propeller designs
			With three plastic propeller blades, the paddle mixes and moves the material from bottom to top using a radial mix action.This action applies shear stress to fluids, and is used for mixing viscous liquids.

			Twin propeller designs
			This design will help produce a low splash mix with the propeller paddles producing a parallel mix action helping to blend and spread the materials used.Producing a low splash mix is very beneficial, however, does not mean this paddle is more expensive.

			Spiral paddle designs (two blade)
			This spiral paddle design is the two-blade version of the three-blade spiral design with less shear on the blades.The paddles require less power tool torque and will mix paints, adhesives, fillers and coatings.

			Spiral paddle designs (three blade)
			This stainless steel spiral paddle design is made up of three blades: two helix shaped blades and one blade crossing the two helix blades.The blades use high torque mixing machines and drills to create a smooth mixing action that mixes and turns the material, pulling the material from bottom to top. You can also find this design with a reverse spiral paddle which performs a top to bottom mix action.

			Hoop paddle designs
			This paddle design consists of heavy duty professional steel making it suitable to turn and whisk large volumes of setting materials.

			Angular hoop paddles
			This paddle is designed for high suction to prevent air accessing the mix. If air gets into your mix, then when applying the mix, air bubbles can appear and cause difficulties.The paddle is designed to turn and whisk making it most suitable for liquids.

			Screw spiral paddles (no rim)
			This screw spiral paddle turns and lifts the mix from bottom to top; it is the most effective paddle for heavier mortars, epoxy, render and screed.With no rim placed at the bottom of the paddle means the blades are not protected from damaging or marking the tub or container being used.

			Screw spiral paddles (with rim)
			This screw spiral paddle turns and lifts the mix from bottom to top; it is the most effective paddle for heavier mortars, epoxy, render and screed.The rim that is placed at the bottom of the paddle around the blades protects the tub or container being used.