Abstract: A speed reducer for a mixing apparatus having a gear train mounted within a housing such that the output shaft is supported by upper and lower bearings mounted within the upper portion and base of the housing, respectively. The lower output shaft bearing preferably is mounted within a recess in the underside of the housing base below a dry well containing the output shaft. The dry well forms a lubricant sump within the housing and preferably is unitary with the housing base. By placing the output shaft bearing below the dry well in the base of the housing, the diameter of the bearing can be increased to bear larger loads without being restricted by the dry well and is better able to transmit bending and radial loads to a relatively massive portion of the housing, and is placed closer to the load, thereby minimizing the amount of unsupported output shaft projecting from the reducer.

Abstract: A mechanical seal and rotating agitator shaft assembly for effecting sealing between the shaft and the wall of the opening through which it extends into a mixer tank includes a sleeve dimensioned for removable mounting on the shaft and serving as a support for the rotating seal assembly which includes a sealing ring arranged for sealing against a glass coated portion of the shaft to prevent access of the contents of the tank to any metal part of the seal and shaft assembly. In the preferred embodiment, the shaft includes a glass coated boss located below the sleeve for engagement by the sealing ring.