ANALYTICAL DESCRIPTION OF THE MIXER PERFORMANCE FOR BULK MATERIALS WITH SCREW BLADES

Abstract

The aim of the study is to reduce the energy consumption of the blade mixer for bulk materials in regard to its de-sign parameters. Preparation of feed mixtures is carried out mainly by mixers of various designs, as well as extrud-ers and other auger equipment. Widespread horizontal mixers with blades mounted on a rotating shaft are wide-spread and used. They are distinguished by the ability to achieve the necessary smooth mixture within short oper-ating time. The main purpose of the proposed mixer is the preparation of dry mixtures of bulk feed components. The intended use of the mixer is the preparation of concentrated animal feed n agricultural production. In Samara SAA, the design of the blade mixer with screw blades was developed based on the literature review and analysis of the technological process of mixers. The mixer consists of a body with a horizontal shaft with radial trapezoidal screw blades. The proposed blades allow to direct forces in such a way that the total (resulting) projection of the resistant force of the material along the shaft will tend to zero due to the changing angle of the profile and width of the blades. At the same time, an axial force will be created at the edge of the blade at a certain radius, which facili-tates to unload mixer through the discharge opening. The expressions of specific energy consumption for mixing, as well as the work duration of the mixer cycle are given. An expression allowing estimation of an average flow rate of bulk material from the discharge opening of the mixer is obtained. It is established that the position of the gate regulating the area of the discharge opening can affect the volume of the portion simultaneously processed by the mixer, filling volume of mixer and the quality of the mixture.