Agitation and Scrubbing of Wheel Sand Washers

Agitation and scrubbing are crucial steps in the operation of a wheel sand washer. These processes involve the use of rotating paddles or blades to agitate and physically scrub the sand and aggregates, dislodging and breaking down impurities that are attached to the surface of the particles. Here's a detailed explanation of how agitation and scrubbing work in wheel sand washers:

Rotating Wheel or Drum: The wheel sand washer features a rotating wheel or drum that contains paddles, blades, or other agitating elements. This wheel is typically driven by a motor, causing it to rotate at a controlled speed.

Agitation: As the wheel rotates, the paddles or blades attached to its surface come into contact with the material inside the washer. The primary purpose of this agitation is to mix and stir the material, ensuring that all particles are exposed to the cleaning action. The agitating motion helps break up clumps, dislodges impurities, and promotes the movement of material within the washer.

Scrubbing: The contact between the paddles or blades and the material creates a scrubbing action. This scrubbing action is essential for loosening and separating impurities, such as clay, silt, and organic matter, that are adhered to the surface of the sand particles. The mechanical friction generated during scrubbing helps weaken the bond between impurities and the sand particles.

Dislodging Impurities: Impurities that are loosely attached to the sand particles are dislodged through the combined action of agitation and scrubbing. The impurities become suspended in the water, forming a slurry.

Water Spray: During agitation and scrubbing, water is sprayed onto the material. The water serves multiple purposes:
It aids in breaking down and dispersing impurities from the sand particles.
It helps to create a fluidized bed of material, allowing particles to move more freely and come into contact with the agitating elements.
It assists in maintaining the optimal moisture level for effective scrubbing and separation.

Slurry Formation: The combination of agitation, scrubbing, and water spray results in the formation of a slurry—mixing sand, water, and dislodged impurities.

Continuous Movement: The rotating wheel ensures that the material is continuously moved and subjected to agitation and scrubbing throughout the washing process. The movement prevents settling of heavy impurities and ensures that all particles are thoroughly cleaned.

Direction of Agitation: The direction of rotation and the arrangement of the paddles or blades can influence the effectiveness of agitation and scrubbing. Different designs are used to ensure efficient mixing and cleaning of the material.