Typical speeds for drums used for liming will be from 1-1.5 rpm = slow up to 3-4 rpm = fast. Mixers may run from 1-9 rpm while paddles generally have one speed but the action in a paddle is more gentle than either drum or mixer. It should be noted however required to pick up all skins from the bottom of a paddle when restarting and this should be taken into account when short stop start running periods are being used.
The amount of mechanical action required in lime is always a compromise, too much will induce draw or scuff and too little will not ensure distribution of process chemicals. To ensure even distribution even of liquid chemicals throughout a large drum e.g. a 4.25 x 4.25 metre drum with a 12 tonnes load plus 100% float requires a run of at least 30 minutes and may be more depending on drum speed.