Effects of bottom profile on the circulation and classification of particles in cylindrical hydrocyclones

Abstract

The cylindrical hydrocyclone has been increasingly used in coarse classification due to its reduced fine particle entrainment, but the loss of coarse particles to overflow remains an intractable problem. Based on the notion that the strong circulation flow caused by the flat bottom structure bears primary responsibility for the problem, this study designs eight unique bottom profiles to regulate the particle circulating flow and attempts to correlate particle circulation flow with classification performance. The effects of the bottom profile on flow field characteristics, particle spatial distribution, circulation flow rates, and grade efficiency are explored in detail using validated models in a Φ200 mm cylindrical hydrocyclone. The findings suggest that bottom profiles have the greatest effect on the axial velocity near the bottom and the grade efficiency of intermediate and coarse particles, while all unique designs have the potential to lower turbulence intensity. An ascending segment near the wall or a descending segment near the axis can help to mitigate the misplacement of coarse particles by reducing particle circulation flow without affecting the entrainment of fines appreciably. Additionally, two circles are found on each side of the cut plane, which is conducive to releasing coarse particles from the circulation flow. Regulation of particle circulation flow by adjusting bottom profile parameters can improve separation performance.