Agitators

Table of Contents

What are Agitators?

Agitators are rotating machines which server to mix together two or more products [1]. In simple terms, an agitator is an spinning turbine with blades on the end or along the shaft. In reality, the agitator blades vary in size and shape for the specific application which it is being used for. Additionally, there exists fully submersible agitators, along with angled agitators for angled entries [1]. A very common example of an agitator is a washing machine. 

Impeller Types

There are many impeller types to serve different use cases and materials. Some factors which change are the power efficiency, the shear stress. and the type of flow. 

Standard Hydrofoils

These are the general agitators, and offer high power efficiency and will not damage sensitive material. Uses axial flow [3].

Pitched Blade Turbines

Offers faster pumping, at the cost of a high shear, which could damage sensitive material. Uses axial flow [3].

Straight Blade Turbines

High shear, useful in suspending solids or for moving heavier liquids at the bottom of a tank. Uses radial flow [3].

RCI (Retreat Curve Impellers)

Lower shear than a Straight Blade Turbine, also requires less power, additionally it can be used on Glass Line Tanks. Uses radial flow [3]. 

Gas Dispersion Impellers

Used to mix Gases and liquids. Uses several C-Shaped grooves to do so. Uses radial flow [3]. 

Rushton Turbine

Similar to the Gas Dispersion Impellers, but instead of C-Shaped grooves it uses flat plates.  Uses radial flow [3]. 

Saw Tooth Disk or Dispersion Blade Impeller

Extremely high shear, used to break down solid material into the fluid. Uses radial flow [3].