CFD analysis of a multi-layer continuous stirred tank based on an orthogonal experiment

Abstract In order to study the solid-liquid mixing performance of a multi-layer continuous stirred tank, a finite element simulation model of the continuous stirred tank was constructed by using Solidworks software. The transient flow field analysis of the continuous stirred tank was completed by using STARCCM+ software. On this basis, the influence of stirred paddle blade speed, stirred paddle blade diameter, stirred paddle blade inclination angle, and lower paddle mounting height on the stirred tank solid-liquid mixing performance is studied. Using the orthogonal experiment method and selecting L9(3 4 ) orthogonal table to get 9 groups of programs, through the extreme variance analysis, the optimal combination of programs is determined. The experimental results show that considering the integrated slurry concentration distribution and equipment energy consumption, the optimal combination of parameters is a stirred paddle blade speed of 1400 rpm, a stirred paddle blade inclination angle of 45°, a stirred paddle blade diameter of 120 mm, and a lower paddle mounting height of 90 mm. The study’s results on improving the stirred tank paddle parameters serve as a valuable reference point for future research.