Flow Patterns in Turbulent Region and Mixing in Laminar Region in a New Mixing Equipment with Low Frequency Vibratory Fins

Abstract

Velocity profiles, power consumption and mixing time were investigated in a new mixing equipment that has a vibrating motor with fin oscillators on a pair of shafts. A large flow pattern with a vessel scale promoted the fluid mixing. The optimum vibrating frequency for mixing was restricted to about 45 Hz. The power consumption had the maximum value at the optimum vibrating frequency and was constant in the range of the liquid viscosity, 1–500 mPa·s. Flow visualization showed that the flow pattern of the laminar flow was symmetric and was divided into two distinct regions, the right and left sides of the vessel.