Agitator/mixer

Abstract

A mixing device employs a rotating hollow column or pipe that is motor-driven for rotation, is open at both ends to, at its upper or outer end, receive an inflow of a mixing fluid, such a gas or liquid, and its opposite or lower end, to simultaneously receive a co-axial inflow of a fluid-like or flowable charge material that is to be thoroughly and substantially uniformly mixed with the counter in-flowing mixing fluid. A positive in-flow of the flowable material from a container, for example, is effected from the lower end of the device within the column, to combine with the in-flow of the mixing fluid and premix therewith in a swirling movement with respect thereto at an annularly open portion of the column and, as thus premixed, enter one or more annular out-flow chambers defined by spaced-apart disc assemblies which are being rotated to generate centrifugal force to finally complete the mixing of the materials and project them annularly radially outwardly therefrom, as into the container from which the flowable material is being drawn by reason of positive inward or suction pressure generated by a powered rotation of the column and its attached disc assembly or assemblies. Each disc or plate assembly may be shaped to provide a desired type and direction of outflow of the now fully mixed material from the outflow chamber or chambers back into the container from which fluid such as a liquid is being drawn.