Performance of the scaba 6SRGT agitator in mixing of simulated xanthan gum broths

Power consumption under non-aerated and aerated conditions was measured in a 0.45 m diameter tank containing a range of xanthan gum solutions, using the Scaba 6SRGT impeller. Well-mixed caverns were measured in a transparent Carbopol solution. The data are compared with previous results obtained with a Rushton turbine in the range of Reynolds numbers, Re, between 1 and 2000. In each case, the non-aerated power numbers were similarly related to Re except that the Po values of the Scaba 6SRGT were 3 to 4 times smaller. Under aerated conditions, the aeration rate does not affect the power number, Pog, with the actual value falling as a result of increasing xanthan concentration. The Pog/Po vs Re curve passes through a minimum which is lower at higher xanthan concentrations. At the same Reynolds number, the decline in power consumption of the Scaba agitator due to aeration is 20 to 50% smaller than that observed with a Rushton turbine. Well-mixed cavern shapes and sizes are also very similar to those observed with Rushton turbines and can be predicted from equations available in literature. However, instabilities in torque could present a problem in broths containing xanthan in concentrations above 35 kg m–3. Nevertheless, the Scaba agitator offers an interesting retrofitting possibility for xanthan fermentation, which could lead to improved performance.