Mixing Superabsorbent Polymers, The Hidden Cooling Power Behind Everyday Essentials…
What Are Superabsorbent Polymers?
Though the name may not ring a bell, superabsorbent polymers are the unsung heroes behind products we rely on daily—from the gel in cool packs that ease our aches to the insulation that keeps our groceries fresh. At West Coast Poly, we recently had the opportunity to design a custom mixing tank tailored to the unique challenges of working with superabsorbent polymers.
Our client required a mixing tank that could handle the process of transforming superabsorbent polymer powder into a gel. The challenge lay in the polymers’ ability to swell significantly as they absorb water, leading to a thickening of the mixture and an increase in volume. This swelling creates pressure within the tank, making it crucial that the tank could withstand these changing conditions without compromising its structural integrity.
To meet these demands, we engineered a low-level mixing tank equipped with a dual impeller system. This design allows for simultaneous mixing and drawing down of the liquid, ensuring consistent blending of the thickening polymers. As the powder mixes with water, the polymers absorb the liquid and begin to form a gel, increasing the mixture’s volume and pressure.
To ensure the tank could handle the increased pressure, we subjected it to Finite Element Analysis (FEA) testing. This rigorous testing confirmed the tank’s ability to withstand the expanding volume density, providing our client with the confidence that the tank would perform reliably under demanding conditions.
This tank is a testament to our commitment to solving challenges with innovative solutions. By understanding the unique properties of superabsorbent polymers and designing a tank that could meet the specific needs of our client, we delivered a product that not only performs efficiently but also stands up to the rigorous demands of industrial use. Whether it’s in the cool packs that keep your groceries fresh or the gel that soothes your injuries, our mixing tanks play a small part in the production of these everyday products.
