Abstract: The invention relates to a mixing device with a mixing vessel which can be pivoted by 180.degree. between a starting position and a mixing position. The vessel part which is permanently connected to the pivot shaft includes an extraction mechanism by means of which any dust-laden gases present in the vessel can be extracted before the vessel is opened. A preferred further embodiment of the invention facilitates the delivery of protective gas to the mixing vessel.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for mixing powdered or granular materials wherein a mixing vessel having a vertical axis is rotated 180.degree. about a horizontal axis from an initial upright position to an inverted mixing position, then rotated to an intermediate position angularly spaced from the initial position by an acute angle, and then returned to the initial position. The movement of the vessel from the initial position to the mixing position is faster than its movement from the mixing position to the intermediate position so that, when the vessel reaches the intermediate position, the surface of the material forms an angle to the vertical that is less than the acute angle. The vessel is maintained in the intermediate position for such a period of time that, when the vessel returns to its initial position, the surface of the material is substantially horizontal.