How Do I Calculate the Height and Diameter of My CSTR Reactor?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the height and diameter of a Continuous Stirred-Tank Reactor (CSTR) based on its volume. Participants explore the relationship between dimensions and mixing efficiency, considering various factors such as slurry properties and agitation methods.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks guidance on calculating the height and diameter of a CSTR after obtaining its volume, questioning the existence of a specific ratio for optimal mixing.
  • Another participant suggests that factors such as slurry type, viscosity, and gas-liquid mixture agitation could influence the design and mixing efficiency of the reactor.
  • A further contribution mentions liquid-liquid mixture agitation in the context of biodiesel production, indicating a specific application of CSTR design considerations.
  • A participant provides a proposed starting point for dimensions, suggesting a tank diameter D and height of 1.5D, along with specific details about the turbine and baffles for effective mixing.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the appropriate dimensions and mixing strategies for CSTRs, indicating that multiple competing views remain without a consensus on a specific ratio or design approach.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of specific assumptions regarding the type of mixing or fluid properties, as well as the absence of detailed mathematical derivations for the proposed dimensions.

princessme
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I have obtained the volume of my CSTR, how do I calculate the height and diameter of it? Is there a certain ratio to adhere to for better mixing? Tried reading up the rules of thumbs but no info on that. Tried searching other books too but to no avail.
 
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princessme said:
Is there a certain ratio to adhere to for better mixing?
Slurry? Viscosity is high? Low? Gas-liquid mixture agitation? You might get ideas from searching some specific mixing problems.
 
Bystander said:
Slurry? Viscosity is high? Low? Gas-liquid mixture agitation? You might get ideas from searching some specific mixing problems.
Liquid-liquid mixture agitation, for production of biodiesel through esterification/transesterification.
 
I'd start with tank diameter D and height 1.5D, with one center-top-entering 45o pitched-blade turbine of diameter D/2 located a distance D/2 from the bottom. Add 4 - 1.4D high, 0.1D wide vertical tank baffles at 90o around the tank periphery.
 

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