UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA

FAKULTI KEJURUTERAAN KIMIA

THERMOFLUIDS LBORATORY
CGE 536

NAME

EXPERIMENT
DATE PERFORMED
SEMESTER
PROGRAMME
GROUP

: 1) FATEN AMIRA BINTI HAMIDI

(2014404804)
2) NOOR AYUNI BINTI MOHAMAD SOUFI
(2014801628)
3) MUHAMMAD FATHUL ISLAM BIN ISMAIL
(2014236014)
4) RIDZUAN BIN MAT ISA
(2014637524)
: FLUID MIXING
: 20 OCTOBER 2015
: 3
: BACHELOR (HONS) OIL AND GAS ENGINEERING / EH 243
: EH243 3B

NO

TITLE

ALLOCATED
MARKS (%)
5

1.

ABSTRACT / SUMMARY

2.

INTRODUCTION

3.

AIMS / OBJECTIVES

4.

THEORY

5.

APPARATUS

6.

PROCEDURES

10

7.

RESULT

10

8.

CALCULATIONS

10

9.

DISCUSSION

20

10.

CONCLUSIONS

10

11.

RECOMMENDATIONS

5
0

MARKS

12.

REFERENCES

13.

APPENDICES

TOTAL

100

REMARKS :

CHECKED BY :

Table Of Contents

Abstract.2
Introduction.3-5
Objective...6
Theory...7
Apparatus.8
Procedure..9-10
Result..11-14
Sample Calculation.15
Discussion16-17
Conclusion18
Recommendation..19
References.20
Appendices21-22

1.0

Abstract / Summary

As for the fluid mixing experiment, we had completed eight sub experiments to study the flow
patterns under various conditions and to show how the power consumed by a mixer varies with
speed, type of impeller, and with inclusion of baffles. Practically, we are to determine the flow
patterns based on two choices of type of liquid. The flow patterns are distinguished by observing
how the two different mixtures are flowing in the tank. These flow patterns are dependent on the
type of impellers used and their position. Besides observing and determining the flow patterns,
we are needed to show how the power consumed by a mixer varies with speed, type of impeller,
and with the inclusion of baffles. The power can be calculated in the form of power number
which will further be discussed. For the first experiment, we have determined that different
impellers indeed results in different flow patterns with two different types of mixture. The
presence or absence of baffle in the mixing tank also can impact the flow pattern. Photos
showing the differences in flow patterns are attached in the results section of the report. As for
the second experiment, the power consumed by the mixer is calculated and the result obtained is
interpreted in the form of graph where we can see the relation between the power and the angular
speed. The results from this experiment are not 100% accurate due to some errors during
conducting the experiment. Thus, we added some recommendations to further improve this
experiment and to avoid the errors as much as possible.

2.0

Introduction
Generally, the basic concept of fluid mixing is simply put as mixing fluid X into fluid

Y where the liquids are soluble to one another and form a homogeneous mixture. Mixing
impeller specially designed to pump fluid through the impeller and produce turbulence which
this effect is vital in mixing operations. These produces fluid velocity and fluid shear
respectively. Fluid velocity produces movement throughout the mixing vessel, intermixing
material in one part of the tank with another, prevents solids from setting out and produces flows.
Fluid shear in the form of turbulent eddies is essential to micro-mixing within the large velocity
streams breaking up gas bubbles or immiscible liquids into small droplets. All mixing impellers
produce both fluid velocity and fluid shear but different types of impellers produce different
degrees of flow turbulence.
The impeller flow patterns give impact to the result of mixing process. The flow pattern
depends on the impeller type which gives variation in flow patterns resulting from different
impeller types. The presence of baffle in mixing tank would influence the flow patterns as well.
It can increase the amount of top to bottom circulation which contributes to turbulence by giving
out some obstacles for the mixture to swirl as a whole and elimination of vortexes. The two main
types of the flow patterns are axial radial. The differences in the flow patterns can cause
variations in distribution of shear rate and energy dissipation rate within the mixing tank. In this
experiment, not only the fluid patterns of the fluid are determined, but also to show how the
power consume by a mixer varies with speed, type of impeller, and with and without baffle.

2.1 Impellers
Impellers are rotating devices that force liquids, gases and vapors in a desired direction.
They are widely used in pumping, blowing, and mixing applications. This area gives the ability
to search for impellers for pumping and mixing of media and allows selection of type of impeller
and size. Impeller applications, specifications and features, types, and materials are all important
parameters to consider when searching for impellers. The five types of impeller that used in the
experiment which are axial propeller, turbine propeller, flat blade paddle 1.5 inch diameter flat
blade paddle 2.0 inch diameter and flat blade paddle 3.0 inch diameter.
Axial flow impellers are used at high speeds to promote rapid dispersion and are used at
low speeds for keeping solids in suspension. Axial flow propeller impellers are impellers that
have 2 to 4 blades and convey the pumped media in the direction along the revolving axis of the
impeller. Turbines propeller are impellers that have multiple fins and convey the pumped media
in the direction along the revolving axis of the impeller. Flat blade impellers are used for mixing
and have one or more paddles. Beside that flat blade paddle have a different diameter of paddle.
The common applications served by impellers include mixing, pumping, air movement,
chemical, compressor or refrigeration, heat exchangers or radiations, high viscosity media,
propulsion, and water or wastewater. Important impeller specifications to consider include the
number of blades or vanes, outside diameter, and bore size. Features include adjustable pitch,
anti-static, coated or plated, corrosion resistant, custom fabricated, folding blades, and
multistage. Choices for materials of construction include aluminum, brass or bronze, cast iron,
composite, plastic, rubber, stainless steel, and titanium.

2.2

Axial Flow
Axial flow is the patterns where the fluid or gas is flowing parallel to the axis turbine.

There are many impellers that produce axial flow which are propeller, pitched blade turbines, and
hydrofoils. An axial flow propeller exhibits a flow pattern throughout the entire tank volume as a
single stage. It imposes necessarily bulk motion, and is used to on homogenization processes, in
which increased volumetric flow rate is necessary.
5

2.3

Radial Flow
Radial flow is the pattern that the working fluid flowing mainly along the radii of rotation

in the tank. Radial flow impellers produce two circulating loops, one below and above the
impeller. Mixing occurs between the two loops but less intensely than within each loop. These
impellers impose necessarily shear stress to the fluid, and are used to mix immiscible liquids or
generally, when there is a deformable interface to break. Besides, they are used for the mixing of
very viscous fluid.

2.4

Power Consumed
The power input is influenced by the geometry of the equipment and also the properties

of the fluid. The flow pattern and degree of turbulence are key aspects of quality of mixing. The
power input, P to an impeller of diameter, D driven at rotational speed, N in a fluid of density,

and viscosity, can be expressed in terms of a dimensionless Power number,

2.5

P
N D5
3

Relevant Equations

Power ( P ) = Torque ( ) x Angular Speed ( ) ( rads-1 )

Torque ( ) = Force recorded on spring balance ( F ) x length of torque arm ( 0.11m)(r)
Torque arm (r) = 0.11m
2
Angular speed () = N ( r.p.m. ) x 60 = rads-1

3.0

Objectives

Experiment 1 : To observe the various flow patterns that can be achieved by the use of different
impellers with and without the use of baffles.
Experiment 2 : To show how the power consumed by a mixer varies with speed, type of impeller,
and with the inclusion of baffles.

4.0

Theory
Many type of impeller were used in this experiment and some of it are propeller and turbine

impeller. Turbine impeller is a rotating component which transfer energy from motor to the fluid. The
velocity that achieved by impeller is transfer into pressure when the outward movement of fluid is
confined by the container.
In this experiment, baffle are needed to stop the swirl in mixing tank. Most of common baffle
used are straight flat plate of metal that run along the straight sides of vertically oriented cylindrical tank.
For the unbaffle tank, tendency for swirling flow pattern to develop rotating liquid. However, there is a
limit to rotational speed that used. If exceed the limit of the rotational speed fluid will spill out of the
container.
In laminar flow (NRE<10), the same power were used by the impeller. The flow pattern may be
effected by the baffle but it not favorable. To allow the fluid circulate and produce axial deflection we
may need the baffle.
In transitional flow (10<NRe<10,000), the circulation of pattern will be clear when the tank is
unbaffle but the vortex will disturbed the pattern.

5.0

Material and Apparatus

6.0

Fluid Mixing Apparatus

Flat paddle
Turbine impeller
Screw propeller
Speed controller
Force indicator
Tank
Baffles
Tank
Motor
Water
Hydraulic Oil

Procedure
9

General Start-up procedure

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

The power outlet is switched on.

All the tightening screws is fastened.
The working surrounding area is ensured to be dry and clean.
The shaft is lifted up using lifting chain attached to the shaft.
The experiment is carried out.

General shut-down procedure

1.
2.
3.
4.

Any liquid inside the tank is removed by opening the outlet valve
The tank is washed and rinsed to make sure no oil residue after the experiment.
The paddle/impeller inside the tank is removed and washed after use.
The power outlet is shut down.

6.1 Experiment 1
1.
2.
3.
4.

The tank is filled with water up to a depth of 30L.

Flat paddle is attached with the end of the shaft.
A small quantity of plastic pellet is added to the tank.
The speed of the impeller is turned up in small increments: 50 rpm, 100 rpm, 150m rpm and 200

rpm. The pellets are seen to swirl around in the water showing flow patterns.
5. The movement of the pellets and the flow pattern is observed and drawn.
6. The procedures are repeated by replacing the flat paddle with other impellers : turbine impeller
and screw propeller.
7. The procedures are also repeated with the baffles fitted in the tank with each flat paddle, turbine
impeller and screw propeller.

6.2 Experiment 2
1.
2.
3.
4.

The tank filled with hydraulic oil up to a depth of 30 L

Flat paddle is attached with the end of the shaft.
The speed of the impeller is turned up to 50 rpm and the reading of force is recorded.
The speed is then turned up to 100 rpm, 150 rpm and 200 rpm with the force recorded at the

respective speed.
5. Step 3-4 is repeated with the baffles fitted in the tank.
6. The power consumed for each of the speed is calculated.
10

7.0

Result

Experiment 1:
A) Water flow pattern without baffle inside the tank.
Types of impeller

Flow pattern

11

The water moves in

circular motion
(clockwise) with high
velocity and created a
deep whirlpool at the
centre of the tank where
the impeller is being
inserted in.

The water moves in

circular motion
(clockwise) with high
velocity and creates a
whirlpool at the centre of
the tank where the
impeller is being inserted
in.

Flat paddle

Turbine impeller

Table 1 shows the water flow pattern without baffle inside the tank.
Notes: All of the experiments were conducted using the same speed (100 rpm).

B) Water flow pattern with baffle inside the tank.

Types of impeller

Flow pattern

12

The water circulates in an

uneven clockwise
Moving in scatter with
high velocity

Flat paddle

The water circulates in an

uneven circular motion
with high velocity.

Turbine impeller

Table 2 shows the water flow pattern with baffle inside the tank.
Notes: All of the experiments were conducted using the same speed (100 rpm).

Experiment 2:
A) Oil flow pattern without baffle inside the tank.
13

Types of
impeller

Turbine
Impeller

Flat Paddle
Impeller

Angular
speed (rpm)

Force (N)

Torque
(N.m)

Power
(watts)

100

Angular
speed,
(rad/s)
10.47

0.00

0.00

0.00

200

20.94

3.64

0.4

8.38

300

31.42

18.18

2.0

62.84

400

41.89

31.82

3.5

146.62

100

10.47

24.55

2.7

28.27

200

20.94

60.91

6.7

140.30

300

31.42

88.18

9.7

304.77

400

41.89

145.45

16.0

670.24

Table 3 shows the results of different impeller without baffle when using oil.
Power (W)
800
700
600
500
Turbin propeller

400

Flat paddle
300
200
100
0
10.47

20.94

31.42

41.89

Graph 1: Power against Speed without baffle by using oil.

B) Oil flow pattern with baffle inside the tank.
Types of
impeller

Angular
speed (rpm)

Angular
speed,
(rad/s)

Force (N)

14

Torque
(N.m)

Power
(watts)

Turbine
Impeller

Flat Paddle
Impeller

100

10.47

0.00

0.00

0.00

200

20.94

17.27

1.9

39.79

300

31.42

40.91

4.5

141.39

400

41.89

81.82

9.0

377.01

100

10.47

72.73

8.0

83.76

200

20.94

122.73

13.5

282.69

300

31.42

177.27

19.5

612.69

400

41.89

240.91

26.5

1110.09

Table 4 shows the results of different impeller with baffle when using oil.
Power

1200
1000
800

Turbin
impeller

600
400

Flat
paddle

200
0

Graph 2: Power against Speed with baffle by using oil.

8.0

Calculations

A) For flat paddle without baffle when using oil at 100 rpm ;
Torque :
Torque arm radius :

2.7 N.m
0.11 m

15

Angular speed ()

= rpm x (2 / 60)
= 100 rpm x (2)(3.142) / 60
= 10.47 rad/s

Torque (T)

= Force x radius

Force (F)

= Torque / radius
= 2.7 N.m / 0.11 m
= 24.55 N

Power (W)

= Torque (T) x Angular Speed (rad/s)

= 2.7N.m x 10.47 rad/s
= 28.27 W

9.0

Discussion
This experiment consist of two parts which is experiment 1 and experiment 2 which has

different objectives. The objective of experiment 1 is to observe the flow patterns that be
achieved by the use of different impellers which are flat paddle impeller and turbine impeller
with and without the use of baffles. But, the objective of experiment 2 is to show how the power

16

consumed by a mixer varies with speed and the inclusion of baffle. Liquid mixing apparatus is
used to achieve these objectives.
In experiment 1, the flow patterns of water with different types of impeller are observed.
Four set of flow patterns are drawn with the use of two different impellers with and without the
baffle. These impellers used a rotor to increase the pressure and flow of a fluid and also act as the
agitator for mixing the substances. Agitation and swirling are the method for combining the
compounds. Based on the observation, we can know that flow pattern of the water is depend on
the type of impeller used. This experiment has been conducted using the same speed which is
100 rpm.
Therefore, we can see that the flow patterns produced are circular pattern and rotary motion
when using two types of impellers without the inclusion of baffles. Another observation that can
be seen is the production of the deep vortex in the without inclusion baffled tank. By using flat
paddle impeller, it created a deeper whirlpool than turbine impeller at the centre of the tank. With
the inclusion of baffle, the use of flat paddle and turbine blade as the impeller produced the same
flow pattern which is uneven. The flow is observed to have actually split into two streams which
are then continuing flowing along the tank wall and back to the impeller.
In experiment 2, two set of results are obtained in which the differences are the inclusion
of baffles. The torque is recorded at every increment of speed and the powers consumed and the
forces are calculated. The graph of power (W) against speed (rad/s) is also plotted to give a
clearer understanding of all of the relationships involved. From the results and the graph
obtained, it can be seen that the power consumed increases as the speed increases. It also can be
seen that the power consumed in a baffled tank is higher than without using baffled tank. This is
because with the use of baffles in an agitation process, vortex does not occur thus proper mixing
is achieved.
The results obtained from this experiment are not exactly accurate. This is because
happened the errors occurred during conducting the experiment. Firstly, we should have repeated
the experiment for at least 3 times to get more accurate results. Besides that, the tank is not
cleaned thoroughly after conducting experiment. An unclean tank can affect the reading of the
torque because of the mixing of oil and water. Then, when the observation is being read non17

perpendicularly to the scale, it can cause parallax error during the measuring and filling the tank
with water and oil.

10.0

Conclusion

From the data collected it shows that there is a difference for a tank with baffle and without
baffle. The fluid flow smoothly in circular pattern and rotary motion when baffle is not inserted

18

meanwhile when the baffle is inserted, the fluid flow unevenly and in random direction. This prove that
open non-scraping impellers favor gas dispersion even at low rotational speed, requiring a fairly low level
of energy consumption. Besides, it also shows that the shape and the diameter of the impeller affect the
speed of the rotation of impeller. In Experiment 1, the flat paddle impeller has the highest torque followed
by turbine impeller. This is why flat paddle impeller is being used widely in industries because it not
really slow and quite fast but do not consume much power. In other hands it is the most effective and
economical.While for the Experiment 2, the highest power obtained for either with or without baffle is
from the flat paddle impeller. These shows that, flat impellers have been described quantitatively in terms
of power consumption as the influence of highly shear-thinning behavior. Furthermore, high shear stress
at low power requirements both confirm that flat-bladed impellers could be valuable tools for dispersive
mixing in highly shear-thinning fluids, as they maintain a high shear rate level. In order to achieve higher
torque, use flat paddle with the baffle combination which will give more efficiency in handling more
workload fluid. Industrial mixing is a very important process because the quality of the final product will
be derived by that quality of the mix. If fluid mixing is not going to be done well, it will lead to a nonhomogenous products which lacks consistency, therefore when it comes to industrial phase, process of
mixing need to be design and selected carefully so that there are effective and efficient mixing

11.0

Recommendations

1. To prevent any accident from happening, seal the impeller at the end of the shaft and also seal to
the tank properly.

19

2. For each impeller, attached them to the base of the bush level carefully so that it will not get off
during the experiment.
3. Wear gloves to avoid leaking of oil and easier to do a job when handling the experiment.
4. The eyes must be perpendicular to the reading scale to avoid parallax error.
5. Carefully lift the lid as it involved the heavy set of tank and engine.
6. Handle the oil properly so that no spilling on the floor as it will become slippery and can lead to
serious injury
7. The tank should be cleaned thoroughly after conducting the experiment with an oil to prevent
high concentration of oil to be attached at the wall of the tank besides preventing the oil and
water from mixing.
8. The experiment should be repeated at least 3 times to obtain average and more accurate results.

12.0

References

1. Thermofluids Laboratory Manual, Fluid Mixing Experiment.

2. https:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/mixing/process engineering
20

3. http://www.aiche.org/academy/courses/ch090/industrial-fluid -mixing
4. Frank M.W, Fluid Mechanics ninth edition, McGraw-Hill.2005
5. http:/www.craneengineering.net/products/mixers/documents/craneEngineeringprinciplesoffluidmi
xing.pdf
6. http://ceb.dlut.edu.cn/uploads/soft/110415/7-110415153545.pdf
7. http://www.ginhong.com/articles/the-importance-of-industrial-mixing/

13.0

Appendices

21

Flat paddle without baffle

Turbine impeller without baffle

22

Flat paddle with baffle

Turbine impeller with baffle

23

24