Applications > Mixing fibrous liquids/solids
As liquid/solid mixtures and dispersions are already complex operations to be mastered in the field of agitation due to the instability of the systems created, the process becomes even more complicated when dealing with fibrous materials or solids.
Liquid-fibrous mixtures are one of the most difficult mixtures to implement. Indeed, liquid/solid mixtures and dispersions are complex operations to master in the field of agitation because of the instability of the systems created. The process becomes even more complicated when dealing with fibrous materials or solids. AGITEC has developed a propeller with a profile particularly suited to fibrous mixtures: the AX4.
In fact, in addition to the notable changes in the interfaces created by the solid parts that are separated from the liquid phase (coalescence, aggregation, etc.), the presence of fibrous residues also makes the operation aimed at achieving good homogenisation of the solution more delicate. Added to this is the risk of entanglement of the fibres around the mobile of the agitator itself.
As with liquid/solid mixing, mixing of liquids with fibrous solids can be sought in applications using processes such as homogenisation for infusion, dissolution or disintegration. The solubility of organic compounds is achieved with a solvent (e.g. water) prior to mixing the liquid phase with the fibrous elements.
Which applications for mixing liquids and fibrous solids?
AGITEC®'s AX4 mobile agitators, whose main feature is the design of the blades with trailing edges, offer a perfectly adapted and optimised solution for use in wastewater treatment. Indeed, the presence of fibrous sludge and filings represents a significant risk of catching and entanglement of the fibres around the mobile. This propeller is designed with a trailing edge to limit the risk of snagging and entanglement.
This mixing process is also used in the manufacture of bread and various doughs for pastries and cakes in the food industry. Indeed, the solute obtained after the dissolution of the soluble elements: sugars and salts in water (or milk) will be used as a basis for the preparation of food products, regardless of the quantity of fibres contained in the solid phase (flours).
Which agitator is used for mixing liquids and fibrous solids?
In order to promote and perfect the homogenization of complex mixtures of liquids with fibrous solids, Agitec has developed a range of mixers, of which the AX4 series propellers represent the most advanced product because they are specifically designed for optimum efficiency, reliability and performance in this case.
As the speed and shape of the blades are two determining factors in the choice of a propeller, the AX4 model benefits from a design specially adapted to fibrous mixtures with blades whose leaking leading edges make it possible to prevent them from being embedded by the fibres present in the liquid, by projecting them centrifugally. This provision also allows a high shearing effect at maximum speed (peripheral speed).
