The influence of the parameters of the activator blades on the uniformity of the foamed concrete mixture and the consumption coefficient of the drive of the mixer

Experimental studies have been carried out to assess the extent to which the tilt of the activator blades, relative to the plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the activator, affects the homogeneity of the structure of the foam concrete mixture and the power spent on mixing the foam concrete mixture. A mixer with a cylindrical shape and conical part was used in the experiment. Vane activators with three flat blades were used. Analysis of the data obtained on the impact of the blades' inclination shows that the homogeneity of the foam concrete mixture decreases as the blades' inclination increases. This is due to a reduction in the speed of rotation of the mixture, corresponding to the stirring intensity. As the blade pitch increases, the power used for mixing decreases. Studies have shown that the degree of air inlet, the nature of the pore structure and the physical and mechanical properties of foam concrete depend on the speed of rotation of the activator of the turbulent mixer. The quality of the foam concrete mixture produced depends on the geometric parameters of the mixer, the type and speed of rotation of the activator, the presence and characteristics of reflective partitions. An increase in the activator rotation speed from 650 to 1000 rpm leads to a sharp decrease in air intake of the foam concrete mixture. It is advisable to apply an activator rotation speed of 500 to 650 rpm. The shape and type of activator have a significant impact on the energy intensity of the process and the quality of the foam concrete mix produced. A mixer with a vane perforated activator proved to be the most efficient. The extent to which the angle of the activator blades influences the retention of binder and aggregate particles in the volume of the foam concrete mixture during the mixing process has been determined. It was determined that a reasonable blade angle is 450.