Tank mixing eductors enhance petrochemical processes
TANK mixing eductors from Spraying Systems Co. are highly effective devices used to achieve uniform mixing of liquids within tanks and vessels, especially in demanding petrochemical applications.
Eductors harness the principles of fluid dynamics to induce mixing and circulation without the need for mechanical agitators or moving parts. This makes them particularly advantageous in environments where reliability, chemical resistance, and low maintenance are critical.
Advantages of tank mixing eductors in petrochemical processes
In petrochemical operations, maintaining consistent fluid properties—such as temperature, concentration, and homogeneity—is essential for process efficiency and product quality. Spraying Systems Co. – represented in South Africa by Monitor Engineering – offers a line of tank mixing eductors designed to optimise these parameters.
The eductors use a motive liquid—typically pumped from the tank itself or a nearby process stream—which flows through the nozzle and creates a low-pressure zone. This vacuum draws in surrounding tank fluid and discharges a high-velocity stream that promotes thorough mixing. This entrainment process can circulate fluid volumes several times greater than the motive flow, enabling energy-efficient tank turnover.
Spraying Systems Co. designs its eductors using high-performance materials compatible with harsh petrochemical substances such as acids, caustics, solvents, and hydrocarbons.
Available materials include polypropylene, PVDF (Kynar®), stainless steel, and other alloys suited for corrosive and high-temperature service, sizes up to 10”.
Eductors are often mounted on tank walls or floors to maximise circulation patterns and prevent stratification or settling of heavier components.
Energy savings and maintenance benefits of tank mixing eductors
The benefits of using tank mixing eductors in petrochemical facilities include improved product consistency, reduced energy consumption compared to mechanical mixers, and minimal maintenance requirements. Since they have no moving parts, eductors offer enhanced reliability in continuous operation, even in aggressive chemical environments.
Find out how Spray Systems Co. helped a refinery optimise its tank mixing operations.
For more information, please contact Grant Orsmond at grant@monitorspray.co.za
