CFD Analysis, Measurements and Applicable Fields on Hydrocyclonic Separation Technology Research

Abstract

The structure, separation principle, varieties, and application fields of hydrocyclones are introduced first. Based on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) method, by using FLUENT pack, the flow field inside hydrocyclones were studied and analyzed. Velocity distribution and flow path line characteristics of the hydrocyclone were mainly studied, especially when the operating parameters changed. By using a Laser Doppler Anemometer (LDA), the simulation results were verified to some extent, which is beneficial to further understanding of hydrocyclonic separation mechanism and its research. In addition, the application aspects and main results of CFD analysis on hydrocyclonic technology study are discussed, such as Locus of Zero Vertical Velocity (LZVV), recirculation flow, and short circuit flow (SCF) inside hydrocyclones. The CFD methods can be applied on the velocity field and density field distribution characteristics research, separation mechanism analysis, separation efficiency prediction, and so forth. The CFD analysis of flow field simulation, efficiency prediction, and part erosion study on hydrocyclonic optimization design are introduced. The CFD application outlook and future work are also addressed.