Paddle Mixer Impellers

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Questions and Answers

Paddles, used as impellers in mixing systems, are particularly effective for which type of materials due to their design and operational characteristics?

  • Highly viscous liquids and semisolids that tend to adhere to the tank walls. (correct)
  • Low-viscosity fluids requiring high shear rates.
  • Non-Newtonian fluids exhibiting thixotropic behavior.
  • Lightweight powders that need to be dispersed quickly and uniformly.

What is the primary limitation of paddle mixers regarding concentration gradients within the mixing tank, even after extended operation?

  • They eliminate concentration gradients in all directions effectively.
  • Their tangential circulation pattern may result in persistent axial and radial concentration gradients. (correct)
  • They exacerbate concentration gradients due to their low operational speed.
  • They primarily reduce radial concentration gradients, leaving axial gradients.

Considering the operational characteristics of paddle mixers, what procedural adjustment is most critical when adding ingredients to the mixing tank?

  • Heating the tank before adding ingredients to reduce viscosity.
  • Adding ingredients rapidly to overcome the mixer's low speed.
  • Layering ingredients to promote stratification and controlled reactions.
  • Avoiding layering of ingredients to mitigate concentration gradient issues. (correct)

In the context of mixing viscous liquids, how does the large surface area of paddle blades relative to the tank size specifically contribute to effective mixing?

<p>It allows the blades to closely sweep the tank walls, preventing material buildup and ensuring thorough mixing of adhering substances. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a process engineer aims to reduce axial concentration gradients in a mixing tank as efficiently as possible, what adjustments would be least effective, given the operational characteristics of paddle mixers?

<p>Relying solely on prolonged operation without altering the ingredient addition method. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Paddles (as impellers)

Impellers used at low speeds (≤50 rpm) with large blades close to tank walls, effective for viscous liquids and semisolids.

Tangential Circulation in Paddles

Paddles create primarily tangential circulation, which can lead to axial and radial concentration gradients if not properly operated.

Ingredient Addition in Paddle Mixers

In paddle mixers, introduce ingredients without layering to ensure uniform mixing and prevent concentration gradients.

Study Notes

  • Paddles function as impellers, generally operating at low speeds, usually 50 rpm or less.
  • Paddle blades have a large surface area relative to the tank.
  • This allows them to pass close to tank walls.
  • Paddles effectively mix viscous liquids and semisolids that adhere to tank surfaces.
  • Circulation is primarily tangential.
  • Concentration gradients in the axial and radial directions can persist, even after long use.
  • Ingredients should not be layered when added to the mixing tank when using such mixers.

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