Mixing Tank Agitator
The principle of a mixing tank agitator is based on mechanical agitation to achieve uniform mixing of liquids, solids, or gases in a tank. Here's a breakdown of the working principle:
Basic Principle:
An agitator consists of a rotating impeller or blade mounted on a shaft that is driven by a motor (usually via a gearbox). As the impeller rotates, it creates a flow pattern in the tank, which facilitates mixing through:
- Bulk Fluid Motion – The agitator moves the entire fluid mass in a circular, radial, or axial direction.
- Turbulence – High-speed rotation creates eddies and turbulence, enhancing the mixing efficiency.
- Shear Forces – Shearing occurs between fluid layers, aiding in the dispersion of one phase into another (e.g., solids into liquids, gas into liquids).
- Heat/Mass Transfer Enhancement – Improved contact between phases supports faster chemical reactions or heat distribution.
Types of Flow Patterns:
- Axial Flow: Moves fluid top to bottom or vice versa (e.g., pitched blade impeller).
- Radial Flow: Moves fluid outward from the impeller (e.g., flat blade turbine).
- Tangential Flow: Rotational movement near tank walls (less efficient for mixing).
Applications:
- Mixing of chemicals
- Blending of food or pharma ingredients
- Fermentation in bioreactors
- Heat transfer in jacketed tanks
