On the effect of gap size between baffle outer diameter and tube inner diameter on the mixing characteristics in an oscillatory-baffled column

Abstract

We report our experimental investigation on the effect of gaps between baffle outer diameter and inner tube diameter on the mixing characteristics, in terms of mixing time and axial dispersion coefficient, in a batch oscillatory-baffled column. Local concentration profiles are measured using conductivity probes at two locations along the height of the column. The mixing time was determined based on the equilibrium concentration concept, and the axial dispersion coefficient was obtained by solving the axial dispersion governing equation. Comparison of mixing time between the 'push-fit' and 'loose-fit' baffle arrangements was carried out and the results showed that the existence of a gap of various sizes between the baffle outer and the tube diameters lengthened the time at which the state of uniform mixing is achieved in such a device.