Technical Specifications of SS Jacketed Mixing Tanks
|
Parameter |
Specification |
Tank Body Material |
SS304 or SS316L stainless steel (as per requirement) |
Jacket Material |
SS304 stainless steel with dimple, limpet, or plain jacket |
Standard Capacity Range |
50 Liters to 50,000 Liters |
Agitator Types |
Anchor, Paddle, Turbine, Propeller, High-Shear Mixer |
Top Cover Options |
Fixed or detachable; clamped or flanged |
Bottom Type |
Conical, Dish, or Sloped bottom for complete drainage |
Heating/Cooling Medium |
Steam, Hot Water, Thermal Oil, Chilled Water |
Surface Finish |
Internal: Mirror polished; External: Matte or Mirror finish (optional) |
Insulation (Optional) |
Rockwool or PUF insulation with SS cladding |
Mounting Type |
Leg-supported or Skid-mounted |
Pressure Rating |
Atmospheric or customized (pressurized option available) |
Instrumentation |
Temperature sensor, Pressure gauge, Sight glass, Drain valve (as required) |
Control System |
Manual controls or PLC-based automation (optional) |
Stainless steel (SS) jacketed mixing tanks are essential in modern industrial processing. Whether you’re mixing chemicals, blending pharmaceuticals, or heating and cooling food ingredients, jacketed tanks offer efficient thermal regulation, durability, and precision. These tanks come with a “jacket”—a secondary outer shell that allows fluids to circulate around the tank, facilitating heating or cooling during the mixing process.
From cosmetics to dairy, SS jacketed mixing tanks are used across industries for their superior corrosion resistance, hygienic design, and efficient performance. In this guide, we’ll explore the types, benefits, applications, and key features to look for when choosing the right SS jacketed mixing tank for your business.
How Do Jacketed Mixing Tanks Work?
A jacketed mixing tank works by surrounding the inner tank with a “jacket” or hollow cavity. This cavity is connected to a heating or cooling system—such as steam, hot water, chilled water, or glycol. As the fluid circulates through the jacket, it heats or cools the contents of the inner tank.
Key Components:
- Inner Tank: Where the actual mixing or blending occurs.
- Outer Jacket: Contains the thermal fluid.
- Agitator or Mixer: Ensures uniform blending and heat distribution.
- Insulation Layer: Optional, used to prevent heat loss.
- Control Panel: Manages temperature, mixing speed, and time.
Types of Jacketed Mixing Tanks
Dimple Jacketed Tanks: These tanks feature a thin layer of stainless steel with laser-welded dimples that increase surface area and improve thermal transfer. Best for medium-pressure applications.
Half-Pipe Coil Jacketed Tanks: Used in high-pressure or high-temperature processes. A half-pipe coil is welded to the outer shell, allowing for efficient heat exchange.
Conventional Jacketed Tanks: These use a full external shell around the vessel and are ideal for processes that require slower heating and cooling.
Vacuum Jacketed Tanks: Ideal for cryogenic applications. These tanks reduce heat loss using a vacuum insulation layer.
Top Benefits of SS Jacketed Mixing Tanks
Precise Temperature Control: Ideal for applications that require strict thermal control, such as pharmaceuticals and food processing.
Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel resists rust, acids, and many chemicals, making the tank durable and long-lasting.
Hygienic and Easy to Clean: SS tanks are easy to sanitize, making them perfect for cleanroom environments and sterile processing.
Energy Efficiency: Jacketed tanks help save energy by retaining heat within the tank, especially when paired with insulation.
Versatile Applications: SS jacketed tanks can be used for heating, cooling, blending, dissolving, emulsifying, and storing liquids.
Common Applications of SS Jacketed Mixing Tanks
Food & Beverage Industry
- Pasteurization
- Chocolate melting
- Dairy blending
- Beverage mixing
Pharmaceutical Industry
- Formulating creams, gels, and syrups
- Heating/cooling APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients)
- Sterile mixing of ingredients
Chemical Industry
- Mixing resins, adhesives, and polymers
- Controlling exothermic reactions
- Dissolving solids in solvents
Cosmetic & Personal Care
- Lotion and shampoo production
- Emulsifying creams
- Wax melting
Paints & Coatings
- Uniform dispersion of pigments
- Heating to reduce viscosity
Features to Look for in SS Jacketed Mixing Tanks
Material Grade: Look for 304 or 316L stainless steel depending on your application. 316L is preferred for pharmaceuticals and chemicals due to higher corrosion resistance.
Capacity Range: Available in sizes from 50 Liters to 50,000 Liters. Choose based on your batch size and production volume.
Type of Agitator
- Paddle
- Anchor
- Turbine
- High-shear Choose based on the product’s viscosity and desired mixing speed.
Heating/Cooling Medium
Options include:
- Steam
- Thermal oil
- Glycol
- Chilled water
CIP & SIP Compatibility
Clean-In-Place (CIP) and Steam-In-Place (SIP) systems make sanitation easier and more consistent in sterile applications.
SS jacketed mixing tanks offer the perfect combination of durability, precision, and thermal efficiency. Whether you’re running a small batch production or a large industrial facility, these tanks streamline your process, ensure product quality, and meet hygiene standards.
By understanding the types, features, and benefits of SS jacketed mixing tanks, you can make a smart investment tailored to your industry needs.