PTM GmbH Conducts Wear Analysis: Physinit® Propeller vs. Stainless Steel

PTM GmbH, a leading provider of innovative mixing solutions for the biogas sector, has successfully completed an in-depth tribological wear analysis comparing its proprietary Physinit® propeller with conventional stainless steel propellers. The results validate Physinit®’s superior durability, reduced wear, and extended operational lifespan, reinforcing its position as the industry’s most reliable solution.

 

Test Overview

Wear tests are critical for evaluating the longevity and reliability of propellers used in biogas, wastewater applications and mining industry. This study aimed to verify the hypothesis that Physinit® propellers wear significantly slower than stainless steel propellers. The test was conducted in a controlled setup with two test units housed in a steel-protected enclosure to ensure stability and consistent conditions. Each test cycle included abrasive particle exposure and continuous operation under fixed mechanical stress. Corundum (Al₂O₃) was used as the abrasive material to simulate extreme wear conditions. As one of the hardest minerals, it provided a rigorous test for the propellers.

Experimental Conditions & Propeller Variants

 

 

 

Each model propeller was mounted on the test stand and operated at a constant speed of 1,493 RPM, submerged in a water-corundum mixture. Material loss and diameter reduction were tracked at set intervals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Key Findings

– Extended Lifespan: Physinit® propellers exhibited 20 times greater resistance to wear compared to stainless steel propellers.
– Lower Mass Loss: Stainless steel propellers lost up to 21.3% of their original mass, while Physinit® showed only 2.8% material loss after 377 hours.
– Consistent Performance: Unlike stainless steel, Physinit® maintained its shape and structural integrity, ensuring long-term operational efficiency.
– Significant Diameter Retention: Physinit® retained its original dimensions far longer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Industry Impact

The study confirms that Physinit® outperforms stainless steel in aggressive wear environments, making it the ideal choice for biogas, wastewater treatment, and industrial mixing applications.

Its extended lifespan reduces maintenance costs and increases efficiency in high-wear applications.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For further information, please contact:
Sebastian Winkler
Sales Engineer
s.winkler@ptm-mixer.com
+49 1511 1551008
www.ptm-mixer.com