Agitator Scale Up Calculation

Agitator Scale Up Equation:

\[ Power_{new} = Power_{old} \times (Scale\ Factor)^3 \times \left(\frac{Re_{new}}{Re_{old}}\right)^{0.2} \]

Power Old (Prototype):

watts

Scale Factor:

unitless

Re New:

unitless

Re Old:

unitless

Power New (Scaled W):

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1. What is Agitator Scale Up Calculation?

The Agitator Scale Up Calculation is used to determine the power requirements for scaled-up mixing systems based on geometric similarity and Reynolds number considerations. It helps engineers properly size agitators when scaling from laboratory to industrial scale.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Agitator Scale Up equation:

\[ Power_{new} = Power_{old} \times (Scale\ Factor)^3 \times \left(\frac{Re_{new}}{Re_{old}}\right)^{0.2} \]

Where:

\( Power_{new} \) — Scaled power requirement (watts)
\( Power_{old} \) — Prototype power (watts)
\( Scale\ Factor \) — D_new/D_old (unitless)
\( Re_{new} \) — Reynolds number for new scale (unitless)
\( Re_{old} \) — Reynolds number for old scale (unitless)

Explanation: The equation accounts for geometric similarity (cube law) and Reynolds number effects on power requirements during scale-up.

3. Importance of Agitator Scale Up

Details: Proper agitator scale-up is crucial for maintaining mixing efficiency, ensuring process consistency, and optimizing energy consumption when moving from laboratory to production scale.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter prototype power in watts, scale factor (D_new/D_old), and Reynolds numbers for both scales. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is geometric similarity in agitator scale-up?
A: Geometric similarity means all dimensions scale proportionally - the scaled system maintains the same shape and relative proportions as the prototype.

Q2: Why is Reynolds number important in scale-up?
A: Reynolds number determines the flow regime (laminar, transitional, turbulent), which significantly affects power requirements and mixing efficiency.

Q3: What are typical scale factors used?
A: Scale factors typically range from 2 to 10, depending on the application and equipment constraints.

Q4: When is this scale-up method not applicable?
A: This method may not be suitable for non-Newtonian fluids, systems with significant heat transfer, or when other similarity criteria dominate.

Q5: How accurate is this scale-up method?
A: The method provides good estimates for geometrically similar systems with similar flow regimes, but experimental validation is recommended for critical applications.