Optimize Industrial Mixing with Proper Mixer Mounting

Challenges of Mixer Mounting

In a perfect world, the only industrial mixing projects we would ever work on would be applications in cylindrical tanks where we could center-mount the mixer. That, of course, is not typically the case. Instead, factors such as environment, process design, tank design, and process objectives require different mounts. For this, we offer our 40+ years of experience and engineering to develop mounting options to address almost every eventuality.

Ultimately, the mounting option is dictated by the need to manage the reactionary force generated by the mixer’s torque at the fluid level inside the tank. High viscosity liquids, or large volume tanks that require large diameter impellers, are examples that require a robust and solid mounting to maintain the performance and stability of the mixer. Our Selection Programs are based on basic engineering principles which enable our engineers to calculate, design and or select the right mounting configuration.

Mixer Placement

The placement of the mixer is also a key consideration. The geometry of the tank and the flow dynamics generated by the mixer will determine where the mixer is placed for the most effective mixing. Some of our larger industrial mixing projects where rapid mixing is desired, or in the case or large quenching tanks where the mixer is acting as a pump are just two examples. Again, we use support programs such as CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) to position, design and select the best mixer mount.

As a basic starting point always review the following:

• Tank size and type – open / closed, cylindrical / square
• Mixer size and orientation
• Operating environment
• Space available

How Does Mixer Mounting Affect Processes? 

Mixer mounting has a major impact on the flow pattern your impeller achieves, which in turn affects blend time, solids suspension, heat transfer, gas entrainment, and other process parameters. Certain mounting configurations can lead to vibration, seal wear, and other trade-offs. 

Mounting Options for Industrial Mixing Applications

We offer the following options when determining your mounting requirements:

Tank Mixers
	Plate Mount Standard plate to mount on beams over open-head tanks
	Flange Mount Standard ANSI pipe flange to mount on closed-head tanks; for non-pressurized tanks
	Drop-Flange Mount For large industrial agitators to allow the shaft & drive section to be separated so that the shaft rests on the flange & gearbox can be take off for service
	Pedestal Flange Mount Pedestal mount to house stuffing box or mechanical seals for pressurized tanks
	Side-Entry Flange Mount For side-entry tank agitators
	Heavy-Duty Clamp Mount Keyed for secure positioning through 30 degrees on the horizontal axis allowing maximum flexibility
	Light-Duty Clamp Mount Keyed for secure positioning through 30 degrees on the horizontal axis allowing maximum flexibility
Tote Mixers
	Bridge Mount Bridge mount to be installed over tank suits all major brands of plastic totes
	ITM Tote Mount This plate mount fully encloses the tote container with the cap. With the ITM coupling, there is no need to open the tank again for shipping or mixing. Total quality control
Drum Mixers
	Universal Drum Mount Unique universal design for mixing in either Open or Closed Head drums with the same mixer, angle mounted to allow for larger diameter collapsible impellers
	Drum Lid Mount Standard design includes steel drum lid to mount on drum or barrel, with either Center Mount for solid suspension and high viscosity applications, or Offset Mount to enable the baffling effect
	Bung Mount Standard 2”NPT bung port mount for fully enclosed mixing, collapsible impellers expand internally to provide increased mixing in closed head drums and totes

What Mounting Option Should My Industrial Mixer Use? 

The right mounting option is one that keeps your impeller in the proper position and orientation under load. Torque, thrust, and bending all impact mixer selection, along with vessel construction, service access, and process-specific factors such as sealing or pressure containment. 

Plate/bridge mounts are highly effective for open-head tanks, while closed-head tanks typically use a flange/nozzle mount. Drop-flange mounting helps improve uptime by allowing drive removal without pulling the shaft, a great option for maintenance–heavy processes. Pedestal mounts provide proper support for stuffing boxes or mechanical seals, and side-entry mounts are excellent for circulation-focused duty. 

Talk to Our Engineers About Mixer Configuration 

Mixer mounting and placement aren’t minor installation details. They directly impact process objectives and equipment maintenance, so an effective mixer design needs to address mounting from the start. Reach out to our team today to get started on a custom mixer design with every detail tailored to your process.