Evaluation of Empirical Separation Efficiency Theories for Uniflow Cyclones for Different Particle Types and Experimental Verification

Abstract

Cyclones serve as essential devices in various industries for the removal of particulate matter from gases and liquids, contributing to improved equipment efficiency and longevity by mitigating the wear and damage caused by dust and small particles. Uniflow cyclones offer improved accessibility due to their predominantly horizontal orientation. This characteristic enhances the ease of maintenance and operation. This study focuses on investigating the collection efficiency of uniflow centrifugal cyclones for oil mist and fine dust particles ranging from 0.5µm to 29 µm in diameter. The investigation is based on the specific vane angles βv of a swirl inducer from 0∘ to 60∘ at a flow rate V˙ of 130 Ls−1. The measured collection efficiencies are compared with theoretical efficiencies calculated using six different empirical approaches. The different results for oil and fine dust particles are discussed. Comparison of the experimental results with the empirical models demonstrated that certain models closely matched the observed separation efficiencies for different aerosols and vane angles βv (respectively, their induced radial velocities V). Through a systematic examination, this research aims to provide more insight into the validity of empirical approaches for different particle types and compositions using a uniflow-cyclonic system.