MAXBLEND - FAQ - Sumitomo Heavy Industries Process Equipment Co.,ltd.


	Maxblend Top < back

FAQ

Following is a list of technical documents released in our company gazette and other technical papers, with titles and source materials cited.

	On Impeller
Q1	What is the highest viscosity MAXBLEND can deal with?
A1	A recommended viscosity range for mixing reactor of a commercial plant scale (several M3 and over) is 10 to 50 Pa.s. However, in the process of designing, we need to confirm that the Reynolds number inside the reactor stays within limits. There will be no problem if the Reynolds number stays above 50. Please contact us to check if MAXBLEND is applicable for the non Newtonian liquid over 50 Pa.s.
Q2	In considering the applications of your various models, how should we decide on a suitable impeller diameter and shape?
A2	Under certain conditions, we know that the following models of impeller will work better. M/B-W Model: specially designed for high-viscosity liquid over 10 Pa.s. Effective when mixing performance in high-viscosity operation is important M/B-R Model: When the liquid level is more than 1.5 times longer than the reactor diameter M/B-G Model: To increase gas dispersion efficiency, mostly in cases of low-viscosity liquid operation However, for optimizing impeller shape in detail, we hope you will let us know purpose of mixing, the need for coils, etc. before you fix your plan.
Q3	Why can MAXBLEND generate upward flow inside?
A3	Upward flow can be generated by the pressure difference at the impeller, that is, a large bottom paddle make stronger jet flow, and small upper gird makes weaker jet flow.
Q4	Is it possible to modify an existing mixing reactor by replacing the inner impeller only with a MAX BLEND impeller?
A4	Yes. But in most cases, you may need to check if the existing mixing reactor's driving unit can bear the torque/mixing load after replacement. Of course, we will be pleased provide you with such service.
Q5	Does the impeller have a flat plate construction?
A5	Yes. It has a flat plate construction. For most cases, we recommend a flat plate construction for washability of the impeller. But for special cases, we use a different design more suitable.
Q6	Is it possible to resin coat a MAXBLEND impeller?
A6	Yes. We also have an impeller with a glass lining.
Q7	How do you compare the shearing stress of Max Blend with others?
A7	The shearing velocity coefficient of MAXBLEND is around 20, in-between a peddle impeller (around 10) and Double-Helical-Ribbon impeller (around 30).
Q8	Does MAXBLEND need to be equipped with a flange equal in size to reactor diameter, because of large impeller construction?
A8	No. We can disassemble impeller into pieces to bring the reactor inside through man-hole and then reassemble, and vice versa.
Q9	Can the impeller shape be changed if the bottom of the reactor is conical?
A9	We manufacture the bottom paddle to fit the conical head (similar figures).
Q10	Will the large square feet if the MAXBLEND impeller compromise its washability, especially in cases of batch operation ?
A10	Washing MAXBLEND impeller is easier because of its two-dimensional construction. Washing an inclined paddles and Double-Helical-Ribbon impeller is harder because of their three-dimensional construction.

	On Reactor Vessel, Jacket and Internal
Q1	Will the baffle or internal be necessary, in spite of the high adhesion?
A1	We usually install baffles under a 5 Pa.s. condition. However, we have delivered mixing reactors without pipe baffle/baffles, for the specific purpose of decreasing coagulation in cases of relatively low voltage driven emulsion polymerization.
Q2	Is there any standardized baffle shape for the MAXBLEND impeller?
A2	We usually use a 4-flat plate baffle. However, we would like to recommend different types of baffles for different cases, as the baffle shape is influenced by adhesion inside the reactor.
Q3	Is it possible to install coils inside ?
A3	Yes. We once delivered a 4-layer coil MAXBLEND for application to a low-viscosity specification.
Q4	Will the flow pattern change when coils are attached?
A4	No. Upward flow is generated by the jet flow of the bottom paddle.
Q5	Will the bottom shaft support be necessary?
A5	We are able to manufacture MAXBLEND with or without bottom shaft support.
Q6	Is it possible to use different bottom shapes to from a 2 :1 ellipse?
A6	A 2:1 ellipse is optimal for generating upward flow along the inner vessel wall. However, as things develop, let us refer to the detailed designs of MAXBLEND systems actually delivered, such as a hemispherical head for a high pressure reactor, conical head for slurry, and 10% dish-shape.