Two Phase Flow Erosion Assessment in 3D Printed Agitator Blades for Cohesive and Non-Cohesive Sediments

Abstract

Agitators are significant components of many industries including chemical, food processing, water treatment industry etc. Specifically designed, mostly metallic blades are used in agitators in these processes. These blades are susceptible to wear, clogging, corrosion, and mechanical damage. Which can result in product quality problems, a decrease in efficiency, more time for repairs and other safety issues. The purpose of this study is to design different shapes of blades that will be made up of PLA, ABS, and other thermoplastics and analyze their behavior in cohesive and non-cohesive sediments. A specifically designed apparatus will be used to test the designs under different materials and conditions. The specimen will then be analyzed by qualitative techniques such as microscopic surface imaging and profiling to scrutinize the abrasion mechanism and the extent of material degradation.