3-D hydrodynamics generated in a stirred vessel by a multiple-propeller system

The aim of this study is to optimize the position and the number of propellers in a non-standard tall vessel. Laser sheet flow visualization experiments were carried out for selected geometrical arrangements which produced stable flow patterns and good transport between the propellers. Four double-propeller arrangements corresponding to frequent industrial cases and a three-propeller system have been chosen. Comparison of LDA measurements in the r-z plane, dimensionless global parameters N-Qp, Nt(m), N-p, E-p and spatial distribution of local energy dissipation rate epsilon shows that a three-propeller system is the most efficient.