M Conventional Activated Sludge Treatment Anoxic Zone Mixing

ITT Water & Wastewater AB
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Design recommendation
Wastewater
treatment plant
function
Conventional biological
treatment anoxic zone
mixing

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Table of contents
1 General recommendation guidelines...............................................................
1.1 Tank design..................................................................................................
1.1.1 Plug flow and completely mixed tanks...............................................................................
1.1.2 Properties of common tank shapes ...................................................................................
1.1.3 Influence of depth on mixing..............................................................................................
1.2 Mixer selection guidelines ............................................................................
1.2.1 Small diameter submersible mixer benefits.......................................................................
1.2.2 Large diameter submersible mixer benefits.......................................................................
1.2.3 External jet mixer benefits .................................................................................................
1.2.4 Top entry agitator benefits.................................................................................................
1.3 Required mixing capacity and bulk flow velocity for bulk flow mixing ...........
1.4 Number of mixer units ..................................................................................
1.5 Layout principles for submersible and jet mixers..........................................
1.5.1 Bulk flow.............................................................................................................................
1.5.2 Mixer elevation.................................................................................................................
1.5.3 Upstream clearance.........................................................................................................
1.5.4 Positioning relative inflow and outflow.............................................................................
1.5.5 Installation of two mixers .................................................................................................
1.5.6 Deep tanks.......................................................................................................................
1.6 Layout principles for top entry agitators......................................................
1.6.1 Circular tanks...................................................................................................................
1.6.2 Rectangular tanks............................................................................................................
1.7 NPSH requirements at temperatures above 70C......................................
1.8 Installation equipment for submersible mixers ...........................................
1.8.1 Single guide bar: compact mixers....................................................................................
1.8.2 Tripods: large diameter and large compact mixers .........................................................
1.8.3 Double guide bar: large diameter mixers.........................................................................
1.8.4 Cantilever: small compact mixers....................................................................................
1.8.5 Fixed bottom installation: compact mixers.......................................................................
1.8.6 Flange mounted...............................................................................................................
1.9 Installation of external mixers.....................................................................

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1.9.1 Installation of external jet mixers .....................................................................................
1.9.2 Installation of top entry agitators......................................................................................
2 Anoxic zone mixing in complete mix processes for biological treatment .
2.1 Purpose of the mixer ..................................................................................
2.2 Mixing requirement.....................................................................................
2.3 Special requirements on the equipment .....................................................
2.4 General design criteria ...............................................................................

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Mixing design recommendations
1 General recommendation guidelines
1.1 Tank design
The volume of the tank is usually determined by considering the load, effluent and
biosolids quality requirements and selected process. Tank shape is often selected to
minimise either construction cost or footprint, given the preferences of the designer.
Reusing old tanks in a new treatment process is also common practice. In the
following the influence of geometries and dimensions as well as the relation between
dimensions such as length to width will all be discussed. The guidelines are provided
for the normal mixing requirements, homogeneous suspensions, and homogeneous
blending within wastewater treatment mixer functions, which can also be used in
other applications with similar requirements and rheology.
1.1.1 Plug flow and completely mixed tanks
The volume of a tank in the treatment processes is normally defined to obtain the
required mean residence time. For storage tanks and basins, the volume is defined to
buffer flow peaks or for intermediate storage before emptying.
Poor location of inlets, outlets and mixers may cause stagnant zones and short-
circuiting of flows. This reduces process performance and potentially effluent or
biosolids quality, or may call for excessively power-intensive and wearing operation.
For instance, Mixed Liquor Recirculation may have to be increased.
Efficient mixing will contribute to the minimisation of the costs for the wastewater or
sludge treatment process.
The basic guidelines to obtain efficient mixing are:
- Mix the incoming flows immediately when the flows enter the tank or possibly
even merge the inlets of several flows
- The most intensive mixing takes place in the mixers discharge. To disperse a
chemical directly in a tank, supply it to the mixer discharge or to a strongly
flowing inlet.
- Prevent short-circuiting of the through flow from the inlets to the outlets.
Design the bulk flow to take a long path from inlets to outlets. During this
transport, sufficient mixing should take place.
- In storage tanks, there is rarely a defined residence time, but it is important to
prevent stagnant or dead zones that reduce active volume and retain aging
material. A complete turnover can be achieved by locating the inlet and outlet
at different levels and opposite one another in the tank.

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- Locating the inlet and outlet at different elevations will ensure the top to bottom
conveyance of the liquid. In particular, with both inlets and outlets near the
surface there is a strong tendency for short-circuiting. Under/over and
over/under weirs may be used to effectively modify the short-circuiting
behaviour of inlets and outlets.
1.1.2 Properties of common tank shapes
Factors that affect the selection of an optimal tank shape include wastewater
treatment process efficiency, mixing efficiency, footprint and construction costs. The
following comments may be made on tank shape vs. mixing efficiency.

- The hydraulic losses are small in a circular tank, as the jet can expand and
deflect without sharp turns. The positioning recommendations given will create
a flow pattern for a completely mixed volume, provided that the inlet and outlet
location requirements are fulfilled.
- The average path length for circulation is short in a cylindrical tank. The liquid
will pass through the intensive mixing zone in the vicinity of the mixer more
frequently and hence reach homogeneity earlier. From the perspective of
blending of incoming flows and solids suspension, the cylindrical tank is often
the most efficient.
- The energy required to create the same level of bulk flow (usually stated as a
nominal bulk flow velocity) of the volume in rectangular shaped tanks, as in a
cylindrical tank, is higher because of more hydraulic losses. It is easier to
obtain a long through flow passage to obtain a plug-like flow and avoid short-
circuits in rectangular tanks. Depending on the positioning of the mixers, it is
possible to have a completely mixed volume or a plug-like flow.
- Baffles may be used to enhance e.g. plug flow behaviour, but usually at a cost
in that more mixers are needed.
- Cubical or quadratic shaped tanks have similar flow patterns as cylindrical
tanks (the corners act like baffles do in a cylindrical tank).
- In the centre of bulk flow rotation, which is usually near the centre of the tank,
there is less movement and turbulence and subsequently a larger risk for
sediments. This is a good location for the outlet to minimise sediments and to
ensure a completely mixed volume due to the forced exchange of liquid
through the weakest zone. With well functioning pre-sedimentation, the total
amount of sediment is minimised.

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1.1.3 Influence of depth on mixing
Water levels varying between approximately 3 6 m rarely require any special
design considerations The 6 m figure is based on application experience. However,
the tank length or width to liquid depth ratio also influences the efficiency of mixing.
Denoting liquid depth by H, tank width or diameter by W, and length (> W) by L,
observe that:
- In a horizontally oriented bulk flow, only a very small portion of the kinetic
energy is directed vertically.
- In a deep tank, the bulk flow is vertically oriented, and the mixing power
generating the bulk flow is more efficiently used, e.g. less energy is needed to
keep the solids in suspension.
- If H/L > 1, bulk flow should be mainly vertically oriented (H/W > 1 for cylindrical
tanks).
- If H/W < 0.3, multiple top entry agitators are needed (if insisting on that
technology).
- If H/L < 1/20, hydraulic losses along the bottom require a zonal approach,
each zone with H/L > 1/20 should have its own mixer.
- If H > 6 m, there are additional hydraulic and mechanical challenges involved
with submersible mixers.
o Fixation of the guide bar system, since it is deflected by the mixer thrust
and a long lever.
o One mixer should be located close to the surface and directed towards
the bottom. This is to ensure the contradictory mixing requirements
resuspension and surface mixing to break the stratification. To deal with
varying liquid level, locating mixers at a low level, but aiming at least
one of them toward the surface may be preferred.
o To cope with such depth in oxidation ditches, elevated locations and
possibly pitching the mixers upwards is recommended.
- It is a hydraulic challenge to fulfil the mixing requirements to prevent
sediments and prevent stratification at the surface or crust build up (in sludge
storage tanks). To meet both requirements, multiple mixers might be required.
This possibility to adapt the respective mixing power to localised needs with
several (smaller) mixers is also one of the greatest benefits of submersible
mixers.

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1.2 Mixer selection guidelines
In some cases it is clear which technology to select, but in many instances detailed
designs with differing technologies may be required to make an educated decision. It
comes down not only to an objective technical issue, but also to the preferences of
e.g. the end user versatility and flexibility, noise level, power efficiency,
maintenance friendliness, etc. Therefore a discussion between the supplier and the
end user or consulting engineer may be required to ensure the best solution.
1.2.1 Small diameter submersible mixer benefits
More energy is transferred into the liquid in the vicinity of the source of the jet, i.e. the
mixer, where the diameter of the jet is smallest. When there is a need for an intensive
mix-in of powders, other liquids, etc. a small diameter submersible mixer is beneficial
for its high intensity close to the mixer. Small volumes (< 200 m
3
) or low liquid level
usually call for small mixers with low thrust. These may also be used in larger
volumes as an investment cost alternative.
1.2.2 Large diameter submersible mixer benefits
When the mixing requirement is to create a predominantly horizontal bulk flow (for
keeping solids in suspension and mixing inflows), large diameter submersible mixers
should be used to minimise the energy cost if the volume is large enough and there is
space for installation.
1.2.3 External jet mixer benefits
The main purpose when using Flygt Jet Mixers is usually to achieve maintenance
friendliness (on the ground). Operation at very low liquid levels may require jet
mixers. The Flygt external mixers use N-technology with very high reliability and
pumping efficiency. The mixing intensity and power consumption follow the same
hydraulics as propeller mixers, i.e. relatively high intensity and power.
Note that a submersible execution of the Flygt jet mixer, the Hydroejector, is
available. It is commonly used in e.g. retention basins.
1.2.4 Top entry agitator benefits
Top entry agitators are dry installed with standard motors, which makes planned
maintenance safe and easy. They are a natural choice in tanks with predominantly
vertical bulk flow orientation, in closed/pressurised vessels such as anaerobic
digesters and in small tanks (< 100 m
3
) unless very flat. The Flygt low speed, large
diameter agitator family has very high power efficiency.

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1.3 Required mixing capacity and bulk flow velocity for bulk flow mixing
The ISO 21630:2007 Standard for submersible mixer performance states that thrust
(N) is by far the most important performance parameter for a mixer. ITT have used
this parameter for a long period of time, and all Flygt mixers have an ISO thrust rating
(not only the submersible mixers).
The required thrust for an application depends on the required bulk flow level, stated
as a nominal velocity, or on the shear stress required to mobilise solids in the liquid.
The required bulk flow velocity can be determined from the settling properties and the
mean residence time. All mixing conditions must be fulfilled, meaning that the highest
thrust value obtained for these mixing duties defines the requirement. These
dependencies are briefly described in the following paragraph.
The required mixing capacity depends on the mixing duties, physical properties of the
liquids and solids and tank design. Typical mixing duties include keeping solids in
suspension and blending different liquids into a homogeneous mix. These factors
may be compiled into a required thrust, according to the following equation.
k
v
A F
bulkflow
2
2
= (1)
k A F
wet
o = (2)
where v = required bulk flow velocity [m/s]
k = loss factor for the tank [-]
= mean cross section area seen by the bulk flow [m
2
]
= wetted area of the tank [m
2
]
bulkflow
A
wet
A
o = shear stress required for mobilisation [Pa]
The thrust from the mixer(s) can then be matched to the estimated required thrust, F,
i.e. the thrust from the mixer should be higher than the required thrust.
ITT have developed software for these calculations. The software fine-tunes the
mixer selection by considering numerous dependencies, such as the mixer propeller
diameter vs. tank diameter. These are often of a second order importance and,
therefore, they are not discussed here.
The required bulk flow velocity to fulfil a mixing task is usually dependent on the following
parameters:
- The settling velocity of the solids, a typical figure in wastewater applications is < 1
mm/s.
- The time available to mix the incoming flows into a homogeneous volume.
- In aeration applications with bottom diffusers, a horizontal flow can break the spiral
flow induced by the rising air bubbles to obtain an increased oxygen transfer. This is
beyond the scope of these guidelines.

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The required bulk flow velocity can be estimated by:
depth
length
v v
settling bulk
(3)
N Q v
low bulk inf
(4)
Where
depth
length
>1
= required homogeneity
) ( N = number of bulk flow circulations as required to achieve homogeneity
1.4 Number of mixer units
The (minimum) number of units has to be determined. For small tanks this is often
easy; fewer mixers results in less costly installation. Of course, if the required thrust
cannot be supplied by a single unit, as happens mainly in large oxidation ditches,
several units are required. If several mixing duties or complex tank geometry so
require, several units must be used. However, there are additional considerations:
- In long, narrow tanks, the hydraulics sets the minimum number of units. One
submersible or jet mixer can reach approximately 2.5 x width (or 2.5 x height if
the height is larger than the width of the tank). The 1:2.5 ratio follows the jet
expansion angle
tan11
1
2 .
- For top entry agitators, the length covered by one mixer may safely be taken
as 2 x width. And if the depth is less than 0.3 times the width, several agitators
will again be required.
- In large tanks, it is often beneficial to install mixers in several locations to
ensure that mixing takes place all over the volume.
- In tanks where the depth is less than approximately 1/20 of the length, several
mixers need to be distributed in zones with no less than 1/20 ratio.
- To avoid excessive sedimentation, the maximum length without mixing in an
oxidation ditch should be 70 80 m. Note that the bottom diffused aeration
and bends normally provide mixing in order to prevent sedimentation in this
respect.
- In oxidation ditches with large loss factors, mixers should be installed with a
maximum loss factor of 5 between the mixer locations.

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1.5 Layout principles for submersible and jet mixers
The hydraulic principles of mixing by jet mixers and by submersible mixers are the
same. However, it should be kept in mind that jet mixers are most often installed on
the tank floor, whereas submersibles, by virtue of their size or by other means,
extend further up into the volume.
1.5.1 Bulk flow
In order to optimally utilise the jet source and achieve maximum flow, the jet should
be directed over a path as long as possible. The bulk flow follows the shape of the
tank and the flow pattern forms an unbroken loop. A free jet expands at an angle of
approximately 10 degrees around the centre line (1:5). Before the jet reaches the wall
it has to turn back to ensure the return flow.
A good mixing result depends on the creation of a sufficiently strong bulk flow in the
tank. Based on the jet expansion, it is possible to define a few general rules for the
most efficient mixer positioning. Using the steps below, jet mixers and submersible
mixers can be positioned in any tank.
1. Identify the bulk flow loop. The bulk flow loop is in most cases determined by
the tank shape and geometrical dimensions.
2. Locate the mixer(s) in the loop.
3. Allow a long jet path for large bulk flow. This often means located in a corner.
4. Smooth deflection for low losses.
5. Stay away from obstacles.
Long jet path and smooth deflection is in general a contradiction, in which a
compromise is necessary.
Optimal velocity is obtained when the jet is directed at a 1/2 radius (30 degrees of the
centre line). The same principle can be used in rectangular tanks. Direct the mixer
towards 1/4 of the width at the centre line (L/2). See Figure 1.

Figure 1. Positioning recommendations for the bulk flow for circular and rectangular
tanks.

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1.5.2 Mixer elevation
A minimum clearance between the propeller tip and bottom is recommended to avoid
high local losses. A compact mixer should be installed with a clearance of 0.5-2
propeller diameters from the tanks bottom to the propeller tip. Two propeller
diameters clearance when the tank depth is approximately the same as half the tank
length, and one propeller diameter when the tank is very shallow.
1.5.3 Upstream clearance
To ensure sufficient inflow to the mixers and avoid vibration and stress, there must be
a clearance behind the mixers (i.e. upstream). Otherwise the inflow will be throttled
with subsequent mixer performance reduction and possible vibrations, which will in
turn reduce the service life of the equipment. This clearance is usually fulfilled for
small submersible mixers because of the mixer motor, unless the liquid level is low.
For large diameter mixers, additional clearance may be required regardless of liquid
level.
1.5.4 Positioning relative inflow and outflow
Mixers should not be positioned so that inflows cascade down, or flow in, into, or near
the mixer propeller or the jet mixer intake. Tank inflow interference with the propeller
may cause an uneven load on the propeller blades and subsequent reduced mixer
life and reduced mixing and process performance.
The mixers must be positioned so that the incoming liquids are mixed quickly and to
prevent short circuiting between the inlet and outlet. When the different inflows are
being mixed-in, as in the denitrification zones, position the mixers.
- For a circulation that creates the longest flow from the inlet to outlet, i.e. to cut
off the shortest distance between the inlet and outlet.
- For immediate mixing with the mixer jet that is close to the inlet (avoid the
inflow being directly aimed at the mixer), create an instant process start in the
liquid. In addition to a primary horizontal flow, a secondary spiral flow pattern
reduces the risk of short-circuiting.

1.5.5 Installation of two mixers
When multiple units are used it is advantageous to locate them together. Some
clearance between the mixers and walls is necessary to prevent the mixers
interfering with each other. This in turn results in an even return flow distribution,
which minimises the friction losses and maximises the mixing effectiveness.
Positioning the mixers together creates pressure at the other side of the tank,
diagonally, which creates a top-to-bottom mixing, which is also necessary in shallow

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tanks. The return flow will be uniform, which is important for solving the mixing tasks,
e.g. to re-suspend (prevent) sediments throughout the whole tank.
Optimal velocity is obtained when the jets are directed at 1/3 and 2/3 of the radius (20
and 40 degrees of the centre line).
In rectangular tanks, direct the outer mixer at 1/8 and the inner mixer at 3/8 of the
width at the centre line (L/2).
Two submersible mixers that are located opposite each other may be used as an
alternative positioning to achieve better cooling in highly viscous liquids, for example
wastewater sludge with a dry solids content higher than 6%.
1.5.6 Deep tanks
The following recommendations are valid for tanks where the depth is greater than
the tank radius (top entry mixers are normally used in deep tanks). See Figure 2.
To prevent separation and keep solids in suspension, at least one (compact) mixer
should produce a vertical flow for a top-to-bottom mixing. To create the maximum
bulk flow, the mixer should be angled vertically towards 1/4 the diameter at half
depth.

Figure 2. Positioning recommendations for deep tanks.
When several mixers are used they should be positioned to work together in the
same loop. The mixer(s) should work in a counter clockwise direction (viewed from
above), which increases the top-bottom mixing due to the rotation of the jet. The

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(upper) mixer should be positioned as close to the surface as the required
submergence permits for a long jet path.
1.6 Layout principles for top entry agitators
These recommendations concern low speed axial flow agitators such as those
produced by Flygt. The bulk flow generated by the agitator sweeps across the floor
and is deflected upward by the walls. In circular tanks, baffles must be present on the
wall to redirect the rotary motion induced by the impeller torque into a vertical flow. In
rectangular tanks, the tank shape handles this deflection.

Unlike submersible and jet mixers, top entry agitators are most often symmetrically
installed, i.e. in the tank centre. Eccentric agitators may be used to avoid the use of
baffles in circular tanks, or when headspace or tank obstacles so require. These are
non-standard cases, and should be confirmed with the supplier before planning
proceeds.
1.6.1 Circular tanks
A single agitator may be used if H > 0.3 W, otherwise three or four agitators or an
alternative technology is preferable. If the tank is tall (H > W) or if the surface must be
mixed in (e.g. the scum layer in a digester), additional impellers are mounted on the
shaft. The main impeller diameter is D
1
< W/3, and the elevation above the floor Z
1
=
(1 to 2) D
1
. The second and subsequent impellers are typically 25 30% smaller, and
none of them are usually closer to the liquid surface than 70% of its diameter.
W
H
Z
D
W
H
Z
D

W
H
Z
1
D
1
1
2
W
H
Z
1
D
1
1
2
W
H
Z
1
D
1
1
2

Figure 3. Main dimensions for a top entry agitator in a circular tank. The installation
height influences the shaft length, which must be selected to avoid critical vibration.

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Baffles extending W/12 into the tank, with a wall clearance of W/72, should be one
more in number than the blades on an impeller. For 3-bladed impellers, use 4 baffles.
If 2-bladed impellers are used, install 3 baffles. These configurations should help
avoid excessive stress by resonance.
1.6.2 Rectangular tanks
A single agitator may be used if H > 0.3 W and L < 2 W (assuming that W L),
otherwise additional agitators must be added symmetrically to fulfil these
requirements in each zone. For instance, if H > 0.3 W, but L = 5.4 W, install 3
agitators in the length direction, at distances of 0.9 W, 0.27 W and 0.45 W from the
end wall. If L < 2 W, but H = 0.2 W, install 2 agitators. However, a different mixing
technology than top entry should probably be considered in that case.
Impeller diameters and installation level above the floor follow the recommendations
for circular tanks (W now just being tank or zone width, not diameter). Baffles are
usually not required here.
L
H
D D
W
Z
L
H
D D
W
Z
L
H
D D
W
Z

Figure 4. Top entry agitators in a rectangular tank. The installation height influences
the shaft length, which must be selected to avoid critical vibration.
1.7 NPSH requirements at temperatures above 70C
Submergence providing a certain NPSH (Net Positive Suction Head) is necessary in
order to avoid cavitation. No other restrictions regarding NPSH affect any Flygt mixer
if the temperature remains below 70C (160F).

For temperatures between 70C and 90C (160F and 190F), the following equation
can be used for estimating minimum submergence.
( )
2
5 3
. min
300
3 10
|
.
|
\
|
=

nD
T S
NPSH
(5)
where S = submergence from the surface to propeller tip in [m]
T = [C]

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n = [RPM]
D = Propeller diameter [m]

1.8 Installation equipment for submersible mixers
The versatility of the submersible mixer installation depends heavily on the
installation equipment, which must allow for safe installation and a multitude of
positions and directions for the mixers. The following chapter will discuss what type of
installation equipment is generally used for submersible mixers and how to use them.
Please see Figure 5 for different types of installations.

Figure 5. Different types of installation equipment. Single guide bar, tripod, double
guide bar, cantilever, and fixed bottom installation.
1.8.1 Single guide bar: compact mixers
In a single guide bar system, the mixer is lowered or raised, for installation and
maintenance, along a guide bar that is fixed to the wall and/or the floor with brackets.
Due to the mixers great reaction force, both top and bottom anchorage is necessary.
This type of installation can be used in any size and shape of tank (except for large
diameter mixers in racetracks where the tripod is used instead). The mixer installation
depth is achieved by a fixed support.
1.8.2 Tripods: large diameter and large compact mixers
The tripod guide bar system can be installed anywhere in the tank. Its three legs are
mounted to the floor of the tank. The upper support should be connected to a
walkway. The tripod can be angled freely from the walkway. This flexibility enables

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the possibility to place the mixer in a correct mixer position so that the highest mixer
efficiency is thereby achieved.
The tripod is suitable for installations with no need for redirecting the mixer after it
has been installed.
The mixer is fixed with the mixer support close to the bottom, depending on the
propeller diameter.
By welding on an extension, it is possible to use the tripod in tanks deeper than 6m.
The tripod is often used together with large diameter mixers in racetracks.
1.8.3 Double guide bar: large diameter mixers
The double guide bar system is built for maximum stability and is mainly intended to
be used in aeration basins where there is no need to adjust the working angle of the
product horizontally. The mixer is lowered or raised, for installation and maintenance,
along two guide bars that are fixed to the wall and floor with brackets. Due to the
mixers great reaction force, both top and bottom anchorage is necessary. Upper
brackets with different fixed angles are available.
1.8.4 Cantilever: small compact mixers
This is a flexible and easy way to install a mixer. The cantilever guide bar can
position the mixer at any depth and angle, both horizontally and vertically. The work
direction of the mixer in the horizontal and vertical planes is chosen at the design
stage when a technical solution is created. It is easy to make adjustments when the
mixer has been installed (but not running) in order to optimise the bulk flow in the
tank.
Guide bar installation with top anchorage is suitable in the following applications:
- Where the depth or the shape of the tank is such that top anchorage is the
only suitable solution.
- In small shallow sumps.
- Where the walls or bottom of the tank have a surface coating.
- In connection with installation on catwalks or on rafts where top anchorage is
the only feasible method.
Standard guide bar length: 3m
Due to the fact that the mixers thrust in turn limits the possibilities of top anchorage,
only the installation of small mixers ( 1.7kW) is possible.

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1.8.5 Fixed bottom installation: compact mixers
Fixed bottom installations are used in tanks where guide bars and/or lifting devices
entail disadvantages. It is also used in tanks where guide bar installation is not
practically feasible, for example due to non-rigid structures and tank walls with
sensitive surface coating.
With a fixed bottom installation, the mixer can be positioned anywhere in the tank. All
the angles in a horizontal view are possible to where you have full flexibility in
optimising the flow in the tank. It is also possible to angle the mixer vertically, but that
depends on the limitations in the design of the stand.
Note that to be able to use the fixed bottom installation it is vital that the tank can be
emptied during installation and maintenance.
Suitable in installations such as retention tanks.
1.8.6 Flange mounted
The flange mounted mixer is an installation that presents opportunities for installing
mixers in tanks where guide bars or bottom stand installation are not the optimum
solution. Examples of such tanks are covered tanks, floating roof tanks, and tanks
where access to the roof is limited.
Covered tanks normally have a flange with a cover located at the bottom, making it
possible to climb into the tank for inspection and cleaning, etc. Flange mounted
mixers are attached to this flange and angled to provide the best bulk flow pattern for
the shape and size of the tank. In tanks without an inspection cover, or if the
inspection cover is too small for the mixer, a new hole can be made in the tank wall
and fitted with a standard flange.
1.9 Installation of external mixers
1.9.1 Installation of external jet mixers
The philosophy behind the Flygt jet mixer focuses on ease of installation and
maintenance, and on reliability as provided by the N-technology. As conditions for
installation are very much site specific, only a few good practices will be indicated
here; see Figure 6.

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Figure 6. Typical jet mixer installation with some important features: 1. Vertical pump
installation (NT) saves space. 2. Short and simple suction line with no high points to
trap gas. NB: Horizontal pump installation (NZ) even removes inlet bend into pump,
and lets gas through to pump up to the vertical pressure line. If space allows, use the
NZ installation! 3. Short and simple pressure side pipework. 4. Valves to enable
maintenance and even removal or replacement of the pump without needing to drain
the tank. Gas relief valve on a high point may be desirable if the application is subject
to gas induction. 5. Separation between inlet bellmouth and outlet nozzle to avoid
interference of jet flow with the inlet.
1.9.2 Installation of top entry agitators
The long shaft nature of the top entry agitator calls for high precision installation and
installation monitoring, in particular in sensitive or heavy-duty applications such as
anaerobic digesters. An easy adjustment feature to maintain the pedestal exactly
horizontal facilitates adjustment for the operator. A selection of bottom supports, rigid
or semi-free, helps maintain stability under difficult hydraulic conditions. Water lock
secures safe operation of gas producing digesters. For installation through narrow
entrances, 2-bladed impellers may be used to facilitate access.
Operation with a Variable Frequency Drive should secure safe startup, stopping and
reversal. Use a torque sensor to indicate fouling of fibrous material on the shaft or
impeller if the impeller does not have a self-cleaning design.
The installation procedure requires supervision by an experienced agitator engineer,
or strict compliance with the protocol supplied with the agitator.

Page 18 (18)
Wastewater
treatment plant
function
mixing

2 Anoxic zone mixing in complete mix processes for biological
treatment
2.1 Purpose of the mixer
In the anoxic tank, raw wastewater is mixed with the return sludge and recirculated
sludge from the end of the aerobic treatment step. The mechanical mixer shall:
provide good and direct contact between the wastewater, recirculated sludge, and
returned sludge.
keep suspended solids in suspension.
in post-denitrification, mix the external carbon source with the activated sludge.
maintain the desired flow direction through the tank.
2.2 Mixing requirement
Complete mixing: The efficiency of the process depends on a complete mixing where the
whole tank volume is utilised. In a complete mix, the SS concentration between the
different points in horizontal as well as vertical must not fluctuate more than 10%.
No oxygenation: The anoxic tank shall be free from dissolved oxygen and the
oxygenation of the wastewater minimised.
2.3 Special requirements on the equipment
The environment in the activated sludge treatment is corrosive. Raw wastewater is a
harsh medium and it is important that the mechanical equipment, electrical installations
included, withstands corrosion from, for example, hydrogen sulphur and chlorides.
Without the mixer the anoxic treatment step fails, which is why it must be quick and easy
to maintain and replace the mixer.
The mixing shall be designed to avoid turbulent motion at the surface, as it can cause
oxygenation.
2.4 General design criteria
The anoxic treatment step is designed for a chosen denitrification rate, which varies with
the temperature and utilised carbon source. The typical design parameters for the
denitrification process are:
SS: 25 kg MLSS/m
3

DO: 00.5 mg O
2
/L
In membrane bioreactors (MBR) where membranes are used as a separation process,
the concentration of the solids in the system can be kept higher: Suspended solids 8-12
kg MLSS/m
3
.

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