DEM simulations of tote blenders for enhanced axial mixing efficiency

The mixing performance of a multi-bladed tote blender is investigated using a graphics processing unit-based discrete element method program. The positioning, dimensions, and applicability of the baffles are systematically studied according to the axial mixing efficiency. The results indicate that the novel inclined multi-bladed baffles can break the symmetrical axial granular flow and introduce a more efficient convective flow into the granular mixing in the axial direction of the tote blender. Owing to the joint effects of convective mixing and asymmetrical granular flow, the axial mixing efficiency is increased by a factor of nearly 20. More importantly, the novel baffle placement approach exhibits excellent applicability to different operating conditions, particle shapes, and blender sizes. Additionally, the inclined baffles can prevent the segregation caused by shape discrepancies and improve the mixing homogeneity in the steady state. The novel baffle design is promising for applications in more complex industrial blenders for achieving a high axial mixing efficiency. (C) 2020 Chinese Society of Particuology and Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The study investigates how changing baffle design can improve the mixing efficiency of a multi-bladed tote blender. The novel inclined multi-bladed baffles break the symmetrical axial granular flow and introduce more efficient convective mixing, showing excellent applicability under different conditions and effectively preventing segregation of particles.