Blog
Type of substance in the tank and type of agitator
Choosing the right tank is fundamental to many industrial and agricultural processes. However, for the installation to be fully functional, a second key element is often indispensable – the agitator. Purchasing the first model that comes along is a straightforward path to product quality problems and even equipment damage. So, what agitator to choose? There is one answer: one that is matched to the substance that will be mixed in it.
If you are faced with the challenge of what tank with an agitator to choose and you need professional advice, contact an Agrotex representative. We will help you choose the optimal solution.
Step 1: Physical properties – viscosity, density and presence of solids
This is the basic criterion to start with. The method of mixing water and thick glue are two different worlds, requiring completely different technology.
Low viscosity liquids (e.g., water, liquid fertilizers, light chemicals)
The main task of an agitator in such liquids is to ensure full circulation throughout the volume, homogenize the temperature, or prevent the settling of light sediments. Propeller agitators work perfectly in this application, operating at high rotational speeds, generating a strong liquid stream. This type is most often recommended as an RSM agitator, where maintaining the homogeneity of the urea-ammonium nitrate solution is crucial.
High viscosity liquids and thick pastes (e.g., pulps, syrups, polymers)
Mixing dense substances requires much greater force. A regular propeller agitator will not move the entire volume of the medium. This is where advanced industrial agitators come into play, such as frame, anchor, or ribbon agitators. They are characterized by a large working surface and operate at lower speeds, but thanks to their design, they are able to effectively mix the entire contents of the tank, preventing the formation of so-called dead zones.
Step 2: Chemical properties – aggressiveness and sanitary requirements
Once we know the required agitator design, we need to choose the right material. This is absolutely crucial for the durability of the installation and the purity of the product. The supreme rule is: the agitator material must be as resistant as the tank material itself.
- Neutral and food media: In the case of water, many food products, or substances with a neutral pH, an agitator made of standard stainless steel is perfectly sufficient. Complete steel tanks with an agitator made of this material are a popular solution in many industries.
- Aggressive and corrosive media: If acids, bases, brines, or aggressive fertilizers are to be stored in the tank, there is no room for compromise. It is essential to use an agitator made of acid-resistant steel (e.g., grade 316L). Investment in high-quality acid-resistant tanks must go hand in hand with the selection of equally resistant equipment. Only such a set guarantees safety and long service life.
Summary: The ideal tank with an agitator is a system of interconnected vessels
Choosing the right agitator is a process that requires analysis and knowledge. When making a decision, both the physical properties (viscosity) and chemical properties (aggressiveness) of the stored substance should be taken into account. A properly configured used tank with an agitator guarantees repeatability of processes, high quality of the final product, and trouble-free operation for many years.