Engineering characterization of the novel Bach impeller for bioprocessing applications requiring low power inputs

The choice of impeller design in stirred-tank reactors (STRs) affects important process characteristics such as the suspension particulates, mixing nutrients or gasses, and distribution turbulent kinetic energy its dissipation rate. A novel impeller, Bach has been characterized this work geometry mechanism action are discussed detail. Experimental measurements power consumption, time, microparticles dynamics were carried out at 1 L scale an unbaffled reactor performance compared with two conventional up-pumping axial flow impellers, namely 3-Blade segment (3BS, also called “elephant ear”) marine impeller. In addition, number pumping efficiency obtained from Particle Image Velocimetry experiments. exhibited a low NP=0.36 showed it can generate uniform microcarriers even relatively speeds (from N=25–30 rpm onwards). was found to effectively mix volume within tM=25 s N>50 (i.e. NtM=37±5) higher clearance when mounted closer free surface, C/T>0.5, while minimally affecting capabilities. Lastly, displaced more fluid than roughly equal amount 3BS suggesting that successfully be used for STR processes (bio)chemical engineering industry where inputs, but high particle efficiencies sought.