Static Mixer Selection Checklist: 5 Stages From Duty to PO

Table of Contents
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Duty data first — flow, viscosity, density, temperature, and CoV target drive every later decision.
- Re > 2,000 → blade; Re < 2,000 → helical; solids → non-clog — the element decision is mechanical, not aesthetic.
- ΔP check before PO — 0.3–1.0 bar (6 elements) must fit pump head margin; retrofits fail here most often.
- Material follows chemistry — PVC (NSF 61) water, PP aggressive, PVDF oxidizers, 316 SS pressure/sanitary.
- Verify with the manufacturer — reputable suppliers re-run sizing and flag issues before quoting.

Stage 1: Gather Duty Data
- Fluid(s) and ratio
- Flow rate (m³/h or GPM)
- Density (kg/m³)
- Viscosity (cP or Pa·s)
- Temperature (°C)
- Mixing goal (CoV target, time)
Stage 2: Determine Flow Regime
- Calculate Reynolds number: Re = (ρ×v×D)/μ
- Re > 2,000 → turbulent → blade elements
- Re < 2,000 → laminar → helical elements
- Solids present → non-clog elements
Stage 3: Choose Configuration
- Element count: 6 standard / 12 critical (CoV)
- Pipe size matched to line (never undersize)
- End connections: NPT / flanged / plain
- Injection port needed? (dosing lines: yes)
Stage 4: Verify Pressure Drop & Material
- ΔP = K × N × (ρv²/2) — calculate
- Compare ΔP vs pump head margin (< ~10% rule)
- Material: PVC (NSF 61) / PP / PVDF / 316 SS
- Standards: ASTM D2467, ANSI B1.20.1, NSF 61
Stage 5: Document & Purchase
- Full spec sheet (duty → Re → element → ΔP → material)
- Send to manufacturer for confirmation
- Request: drawings, material certs, CoC
- Compare quotes on engineering support, not price alone
- Audit to PO — only after ΔP and material verified
⚠️ Gate Conditions (Don't Skip)
- Never PO before ΔP verification — pump retrofits are the #1 failure
- Never assume material compatibility — confirm with the chemistry table
- Never undersize the mixer — velocity drives mixing
- Never copy a competitor's size — size from YOUR duty
FAQ
Q: How long does the selection process take? With a manufacturer's sizing support, 1-2 working days — duty data in, spec confirmed, quote out.
Q: What if I don't know my viscosity exactly? Estimate from the fluid type (water 1 cP, oils 10-1000 cP) and confirm with the manufacturer — they'll flag sensitivity.
Q: Do you provide a completed spec sheet? Yes — we return a full sizing sheet with every quote: Re, element, ΔP, material, connections.
Your Quick Takeaway
Run the 5 stages once, and your mixer spec is done. We'll verify it for free — send us your duty data.
→ Send us your duty data for a verified spec sheet & quote — typically answered within 24 hours.
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Written by
Ray ChanStatic Mixer Sourcing Specialist. Ray helps global importers and plant engineers source reliable inline mixing products.