Jacoby-Tarbox Eductors and TLAs (Tank Liquid Agitators) (Clark Reliance)

Description

Jacoby-Tarbox Eductors and TLAs Use Motive-Fluid Energy

Jacoby-Tarbox eductors and TLAs operate by accelerating a pressurized motive fluid through an internal nozzle. This action creates a lower-pressure area within the eductor.

The pressure difference draws a secondary liquid or gas into the suction connection. The two streams then combine inside the mixing section. Finally, the eductor discharges the mixed stream into the process line or tank.

This operating principle eliminates internal rotating components. As a result, the eductor requires no direct electrical drive and has fewer mechanical wear points.

However, the system must provide suitable motive pressure and flow. Correct sizing also depends on suction conditions, discharge pressure and the required process result.

In-Line Eductors for Pumping, Mixing and Heating

Jacoby-Tarbox In-Line Eductors perform several process functions within a piping system. They can pump liquids, move gases, blend process streams or heat liquids with steam.

The range serves as the next generation of jet pumps, ejectors and venturi pumps. Because the units contain no moving parts, they can reduce maintenance requirements and operating costs.

Jacoby-Tarbox uses computational fluid dynamics to optimize efficiency and performance. Smooth internal finishes also promote efficient flow through the eductor.

Additionally, the mixing tube section handles normal pipe stress. Integrated wrench flats help prevent installation damage. These features support reliable operation in demanding process environments.

Different eductor models use different motive and suction connection arrangements. Therefore, installers must confirm the correct connection locations before installation.

TLAs Create Effective In-Tank Flow Fields

Tank Liquid Agitators install inside open vessels or closed tanks. A pressurized fluid enters the nozzle and accelerates into a high-velocity stream.

This stream entrains surrounding tank liquid and mixes it with the motive fluid. The combined flow then exits the TLA and circulates through the vessel.

The resulting flow field can reduce stratification and promote more uniform tank conditions. It can also distribute temperature, solids, gases and process chemicals.

TLAs work with liquids that have different specific gravities. They can also support slurries, suspensions and other challenging mixing duties.

Their compact design minimizes interference with other tank equipment. In-tank mounting also removes the need for large mechanical structures above the vessel.

High Flow Amplification for Efficient Mixing

The TLA’s optimized flow path creates a high pickup ratio. This ratio compares the surrounding liquid entrained by the TLA with the supplied motive flow.

At pressure differentials between 10 and 60 psi, the TLA entrains at least four times the motive flow. Above 60 psi, the entrained volume remains nearly constant.

This flow amplification can support effective mixing with a smaller pump. Existing transfer pumps may also serve more than one process function.

However, viscosity, solids loading and tank geometry affect mixing performance. Engineers must also consider the required turnover time and available pump pressure.

AccuBlend CFD Analysis Supports TLA Selection

AccuBlend computational fluid dynamics analysis helps evaluate proposed tank-mixing arrangements. The analysis models fluid movement from initial startup through complete tank turnover.

Engineers can review velocity profiles, directional flow and predicted mixing stages. They can also determine the required number, size and placement of TLAs.

The analysis considers the tank dimensions, fluid properties and available pump conditions. It also accounts for the required turnover time and mixing objective.

Mixing objectives may include blending, solids suspension, layer removal or tank heating. Therefore, AccuBlend CFD analysis can increase confidence before installation.

Broad Material and Connection Options

Jacoby-Tarbox eductors and TLAs support many industrial fluids and operating environments. In-Line Eductors offer both metallic and non-metallic material options.

Available materials include carbon steel, 316 stainless steel, bronze, PVC, CPVC and PVDF. Additional options include Monel®, Alloy 20, Hastelloy® C, Duplex and Stellite®.

Standard TLA materials include bronze, 316 stainless steel and carbon steel. Larger units and other materials may use fabricated construction.

TLA connection options include threaded, welded, grooved, brazed and flanged designs. This flexibility helps match the product to existing piping and tank requirements.

Rugged Design with Minimal Mechanical Maintenance

Jacoby-Tarbox eductors contain no internal moving parts. Therefore, they avoid many maintenance concerns associated with mechanical pumps and mixers.

Routine inspections should still check the nozzle for erosion, debris or process buildup. Technicians should also inspect seals, connections, gauge ports and the eductor body.

Steam applications may require inspections of strainers and steam traps. Facilities should base maintenance intervals on the process fluid and actual operating conditions.