HOW TO STAND OUT
BY BLENDING IN
The mixing part of the glassmaking equation often gets short shrift. It’s such an expected step in the process that it can be easily taken for granted. But not by GlassMASTER. We are dedicated solely to optimizing the mixing part of glass production. As a division of Mixer Systems, Inc., GlassMASTER builds on their expertise in the design and manufacture of mixing and material handling equipment.
Mixer Systems was formed when company founder William Boles purchased the Turbin & Tilter mixer lines in 1979 from the T.L. Smith Company, based out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. T.L. Smith introduced the pan mixer (now known as the legendary Turbin Mixer) concept to North America in 1955. With more than 3,000 Turbin Mixers sold, Mixer Systems is the largest producer of pan mixers in North America.
Mixer Systems established GlassMASTER in 1984 to introduce its mixing technology and expertise to the expanding glassmaking markets. By design, we stand at the starting point of glass production, ensuring quality in the mixing that stays with the product all down the line.
To ensure quality and durability, GlassMASTER manufactures each mixer—including its customized controls-at our 86,000 square-foot headquarters.
A HISTORY FORGED BY PASSION AND PROGRESS.
Mixers from the T. L. Smith Company, the largest concrete mixers in the world, are used for the construction of the first stadium of the Ohio State University in 1922, and the mighty Wilson Dam in Alabama in 1924.
T.L. Smith introduces the pan mixer (now known as the Turbin® mixer) concept to North America. The Turbin mixer is the heart of the GlassMASTER product line. Today, there are more than 3,000 Turbin mixers in use worldwide.
William Boles purchases the Turbin mixer line from the T.L. Smith Company to form Mixer Systems. The company is headquartered on West National Avenue in Milwaukee, Wisconsin from 1979 through 1981.
Mixer Systems purchases the Stokar product line from Portec Company in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Stokar is the industry standard of metal producers worldwide for stoking, skimming and charging operations of electric furnaces.
Mixer Systems acquires the Praschak™ product line of horizontal shaft spiral blade and paddle mixers, skip hoist and Hammermill crushers. The new mixers expand customer choices, while skip hoist adds material handling capabilities.
Extending Mixer System’s mixing technology to new markets, the company establishes the DustMASTER Division. It serves the dust conditioning, material processing and environmental needs of diverse industries.
The Turbin and planetary mixers gain new assignments, in the global glass industry. Their proven technology produces world-class glass such as float, container, fiberglass and frit glass, as well as fine materials and colored mixes.
Mixer Systems relocates to its present headquarters in Pewaukee, Wisconsin. The facility, which totals 86,000 sq. ft. including a 1996 addition, houses sales and service, engineering, manufacturing, assembly and parts warehousing.
Mixer Systems introduces a flexible batch plant for medium-volume concrete producers. With capacities up to 48 yards/hour, EconoBATCH can pair with four different mixer designs and handle up to six aggregates and two cements.
Mixer System custom designs automation systems to control mixers and integrate with plant operations. Engineers start with a base PLC and build to customer specifications.
New features include: discharge door and top cover assembly with easy access maintenance doors; mixer rotating case and mixing arms/paddles configurations to provide a more homogenous mix and quicker discharges; added safety guarding to drive belt access areas.
Mixer Systems offers a custom-designed plant for high-volume concrete products producers, capable of producing up to 250 yards/hour. Customers configure their BatchMASTER plant from a complete range of performance-proven components.
The acquisition of Ag-Flow Aggregate Heating and Cooling Systems complements the Mixer Systems product line. By conditioning material prior to mixing, Ag-Flow reduces lost days of production due to unfavorable weather.
Mixer Systems introduces a flexible, affordable plant for startups and expansions, the first to be engineered and manufactured in the U.S.A. MIX Skid Mount Plant features production rates up to 300 yards/day and can be set up in as little as two days. Offers three different mixer designs, with capacities from ½ cu. yd. to 2 cu. yd. Available in one-piece or two-piece assemblies.
Planetary mixers from Mixer Systems are the only ones of their kind designed and manufactured in the U.S.A. They produce a unique counter-current mixing action, resulting in a fast, homogenous mix in as little as 30 seconds.
Advanced design uses PLC base with a touchscreen interface. It can manage 6 aggregates, 2 cements, 4 admixes and 1 water, and store up to 50 mix designs. Easily replaces previous controls for a reliable and rugged upgrade.
Mixer Systems introduces the first twin shaft mixers to be designed, engineered and manufactured in the U.S.A. The 4- and 6-cu. yd. models are designed for ease of service and maintenance.
Following the passing of William Boles in 2014, the second generation of family owners assumes management responsibilities. David Boles heads the GlassMASTER division, and Lesley (Boles) Hill leads marketing and communications.
Mixer Systems acquires the Acromix product line of small batch plants, paddle mixers, and material handling accessories. The new products expand customer choices, while providing continuing parts and service to existing customers.
The company that William Boles built celebrates its 40th anniversary of proudly designing and manufacturing a complete line of mixers and material handling equipment in the U.S.A.
After more than a generation of family stewardship, Mixer Systems, Inc. transitions to new ownership by investors and current management. Respecting the family legacy, the new owners bring an infusion of resources and new energy to Mixer System’s future.
MADE IN AMERICA.
AT WORK AROUND THE WORLD
Like Mixer Systems equipment, GlassMASTER products are manufactured in our own 86,000 square-foot facility. It houses advanced product planning, engineering, design, and state-of-the-art fabrication. In addition, Mixer Systems maintains an inventory of 40,000 parts, and 97% of orders are shipped within 24 hours to keep customers’ operations up and running.
Glassmaking is one of the oldest crafts in existence, as well as one of the most future-oriented enterprises known. The high-tech glass products emerging from plants around the world will play critical roles in the transportation, architecture and housing, and energy production of tomorrow. GlassMASTER is proud to be in the mix, joining industry leaders in forming a brighter future.