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Experimental investigation of heat generation during the mixing of granular materials in an overhead stirrer
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  • Francisco Kisuka,
  • Rafael Rangel,
  • Colin Hare,
  • Vincenzino Vivacqua,
  • Charley Wu
Francisco Kisuka
University of Surrey
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Rafael Rangel
International Center for Numerical Methods in Engineering
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Colin Hare
Newcastle University
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Vincenzino Vivacqua
UCB Pharma SA Belgium
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Charley Wu
University of Surrey

Corresponding Author:c.y.wu@surrey.ac.uk

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Abstract

Bladed mixers are widely used for processing granular materials where significant mechanical energy is required to produce the desired blend. Some mechanical energy is dissipated within the granular medium, generating heat during this process. However, our knowledge of the heat generation mechanisms without external thermal loads is still lacking. This study uses an overhead stirrer to mix granular materials and investigate heat generation by monitoring the temperature changes in the granular bed. Additionally, first-order kinetic equations are used to extrapolate the experimental data to a thermal equilibrium where the heat generation and heat loss rates are equal. Lead, steel, and glass particles are used under various operating conditions. It is observed that metallic particles heat up faster owing to their lower heat capacity. Also, increasing the rotation speed, fill ratio and particle size result in a greater temperature increase. Moreover, flat blades induce more heat generation compared to tilted blades.
15 Mar 2023Submitted to AIChE Journal
26 Mar 2023Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
26 Mar 2023Submission Checks Completed
26 Mar 2023Assigned to Editor
02 Apr 2023Reviewer(s) Assigned
21 May 2023Editorial Decision: Revise Minor
29 Jun 20231st Revision Received
03 Jul 2023Submission Checks Completed
03 Jul 2023Assigned to Editor
03 Jul 2023Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
25 Jul 2023Editorial Decision: Accept