A Side Entry Agitator (also known as a side entry mixer) is an industrial mixing device mounted on the sidewall of a tank or vessel, typically near the bottom and often at an angle. Unlike top-entry agitators that enter from above, side entry models are installed horizontally through a flange or nozzle on the tank’s side. This design is particularly suited for large storage tanks where top access is limited, headroom is low, or multiple units are needed for efficient coverage.
Side Entry Agitator Video
How It Works
The agitator consists of:
-
A motor and gearbox (usually outside the tank for easy maintenance).
-
A shaft extending into the tank.
-
An impeller (commonly a marine propeller, hydrofoil, or high-efficiency axial flow type) at the end of the shaft.
The impeller rotates to create a strong axial flow, directing liquid toward the tank bottom. This pushes the fluid downward, causing it to rise along the opposite tank wall and circulate back toward the surface. The result is a rolling flow pattern that minimizes dead zones, promotes uniformity, and prevents settling.
Many models feature a mechanical seal with a shut-off device, allowing seal replacement without draining the tank—reducing downtime and safety risks.
Key Advantages
-
Cost-effective and energy-efficient: Uses less power than top-entry agitators for similar results in large volumes (often 1/3 to 2/3 the power consumption).
-
Ideal for large tanks: Multiple units can be installed around the tank for thorough mixing without long shafts.
-
Low maintenance: External motor/gearbox and seal designs that support in-tank servicing.
-
Compact: Saves space and avoids the need for internal baffles or heavy structural supports.
Common Applications
Side entry agitators are widely used in industries requiring homogeneous mixing, blending, solids suspension, or heat transfer in low- to medium-viscosity fluids:
-
Food & beverage: Maintaining homogeneity in wine, milk, beer, oil, juice.
-
Petrochemical & oil: Crude oil blending, BS&W (bottom sediment & water) control.
-
Chemical & pharmaceutical: Suspensions, resins, solvents.
-
Wastewater & pulp/paper: Preventing sedimentation.
-
Other: Edible oils, biofuels, flue gas desulfurization.
* Power voltage can be adjusted as per customer’s domestic power voltage requirements.
* Rights of technical improvements & modification reserved.
* Illustrations & dimensions are shown for information purpose only.
Send Inquiry