An analogous scale model for laboratory mixing studies

This technical note illustrates application of a model gypsum scale system purposely developed to investigate the effect of flow condition on scale growth in mixing tanks. Photos of non-uniform scale growth distribution in laboratory mixing tanks are presented. The laboratory results are found to match qualitatively to that observed in the full-scale plant. Due to its low cost and simplicity in application, this method can be applied in mixing pilot testing so that scale mitigation can be included in the agitator and tank design optimisation.

Automated summary

This technical note demonstrates the use of a model gypsum scale system to study the impact of flow condition on scale growth in mixing tanks. Photos of uneven scale growth distribution in laboratory mixing tanks are presented. The results obtained in the laboratory are qualitatively consistent with observations in full-scale plants. Due to its cost-effectiveness and simplicity, this method can be employed in pilot testing for the optimization of agitator and tank design, taking scale mitigation into account.