In the domain of industrial mixing technology, the wafer static mixer, characterized by its distinctive bent ear plate mixing element, has drawn considerable attention. It presents remarkable structural benefits over traditional static mixers, such as a more straightforward design and reduced pressure drop. Notably, with the dispersed phase inlet positioned behind the ear plate, it effectively precludes pipeline clogging when dealing with high-viscosity media post-mixing reactions, which is a common issue in many industrial applications. The bending angle of the ear plate, being the solitary mixing element in this mixer, is a critical parameter that directly governs the hydraulic environment and, consequently, the mixing efficacy. To meticulously explore this influence, a specialized model is devised, wherein only the bending angle varied while keeping the flow area constant. By leveraging advanced numerical simulation methodologies and conducting meticulous visual experiments, an in-depth analysis is conducted to unravel the characteristics of the outlet flow field and the homogeneity of mixing. The research outcomes demonstrated that a 10° bending angle is pivotal in attenuating the Coanda effect, leading to the most symmetrical flow field. This optimal configuration culminates in superior mixing performance, as manifested by excellent mixing over a relatively short distance and accompanied by a conspicuously low pressure drop. The indoor experimental results not only validate the numerical simulation findings but also provide practical evidence of the mixer's behavior in real-world scenarios. In summary, the insights gleaned from this study offer substantial theoretical underpinnings for the optimization and engineering implementation of wafer static mixers. They serve as a scientific bedrock for the design and development of highly efficient static mixers in the chemical engineering and allied industries, thereby fueling innovation and advancements in mixing technologies and process optimization strategies. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex fluid dynamics within the mixer and paves the way for more efficient and reliable industrial mixing processes.
SONG Ze-Run
,
JI Yi-Peng
,
CHEN Jia-Qing
,
WANG Xiu-Jun
,
HUA Chao
,
CHEN Xiang-Yu
,
WANG Chun-Yao
. Study on optimal bending angle of ear plate in wafer static mixer[J]. The Chinese Journal of Process Engineering, 2025
, 25(10)
: 1021
-1029
.
DOI: 10.12034/j.issn.1009-606X.224391