Side Entry Mixers

How side entry mixers work

The operating principles of side entry mixers involve the use of horizontal shaft that is installed on the side of a mixing tank or vessel. The shaft is connected to a motor and rotates at high speeds, creating turbulence and promoting efficient mixing of the condiments in the tank.

The mixer blades or impellers, which are attached to the horizontal shaft. Generates a flow pattern that promotes the mixing of fluid. These mixers can be fitted with a variety of impellers, such as axial flow, radial flow, and mixed flow, depending on the specific mixing requirements. The shape and design of the blades can be customized to suit specific mixing applications, such as blending, dispersing or solid suspension.

Side entry mixers are designed to operate at different speeds, depending on the viscosity and specific gravity of the fluid being mixed. The speed of the mixer can be adjusted to achieve the desired level of mixing intensity and efficiency.

In addition, side entry mixers can be equipped with various accessories, such as baffles and flow control devices, to optimize mixing performance and reduce energy consumption. These accessories help to reduce vortexing and improve the circulation of fluid, which results in more efficient mixing.

Advantages of side entry mixers

Side entry mixers offer many advantages over other types of mixers in various industrial applications. Some of the key advantages of side entry mixers include:

• Efficient mixing: Side entry mixers are designed to provide efficient mixing of large volumes of fluid, resulting in better product quality and faster processing times.
• Cost-effective: Side entry mixers can be installed on smaller tanks, which reduces the overall cost of the mixing system. This results in savings on materials, maintenance, and energy.
• Versatility: Side entry mixers can be customized with different blade designs and accessories to suit a wide range of mixing applications, including blending, dispersing, and solid suspension.
• Space-saving: Side entry mixers can be installed on the side of a tank, which saves space compared to top entry mixers that require a larger opening on the tank.
• Easy maintenance: Side entry mixers are easy to maintain and repair, as the motor and gearbox are located outside the tank.
• Improved safety: Side entry mixers can be equipped with safety features, such as automatic shut-off sensors, to prevent accidents and reduce the risk of injuries.

Industries and applications that uses side entry mixers

Side entry mixers are used in a variety of industries. They are commonly used for mixing and blending liquids in large tanks or vessels, such as those used for chemical reactions, fermentation, and storage. Some of the most common industries that uses side entry mixers include:

• Oil and gas industry: Side entry mixers are used in the oil ang gas industry to blend and mix crude oil, water, and other fluids. They are also used for mixing drilling mud and other drilling fluids.
• Chemical industry: Side entry mixers are used in the chemical industry for blending and mixing various chemicals, such as polymers, resins, adhesives, and solvents. They are also used for mixing and homogenizing slurries and pastes.
• Food and beverage industry: The food and beverage industry use side entry mixers for mixing and blending ingredients, such as sauces, soups, beverages, and dairy products. They are also used for emulsifying and dispersing food additives, such as stabilizers, thickeners, and flavors.
• Pharmaceutical industry: Side entry mixers are used in pharmaceutical industry for mixing and blending various ingredients, such as powders, granules, and liquids, to form pharmaceutical products, such as tablets, capsules, and syrups.
• Water treatment industry: Side entry mixers are used in the water treatment industry for mixing and agitating water and wastewater during treatment processes, such as flocculation, sedimentation, and disinfection. Side entry mixers are also used for mixing chemicals, such as coagulants, and disinfectants, into the water.
• Mining industry: The mining industry also uses side entry mixers for a variety of applications, including mixing and agitating slurry and tailings in mineral processing operations. They are also used for leaching, where chemicals are mixed with ore to extract voluble metals, and for neutralizing acidic or alkaline solutions in mining wastewater treatment.

Important considerations when selecting side entry mixers

When selecting a side entry mixer, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the type of product being mixed should be considered. Different products require different impeller designs and mixing speeds. Secondly, the size and shape of the tank or vessel should be considered. The size of the mixer must match the size of the tank and the mixing requirements of the product to perform optimally. Thirdly, the level of viscosity of the product being mixed should be considered. Side entry mixers are ideal for low to medium viscosity liquids but may net be suitable for very high viscous fluids. Finally, the level of customization required should be considered. Side entry mixers can be customized with different impellers and motor sizes to meet specific mixing requirements.

Why buy side entry mixers from AxFlow

AxFlow offers side entry mixers for the widest range of industries and applications. Only at AxFlow do you receive individual advice from industry-experienced process engineers and the manufacturer-independent selection of the world's leading process technology. Do you need support in selecting the right mixer for your needs? Do not hesitate to get in touch. AxFlows experts and engineers can provide guidance for selecting, specifying, installing, and maintaining your fluid handling equipment.