Novel insights into the effect of cone structure on the classification performance of dual-cone hydrocyclones

Abstract

The classification process in hydrocyclones is affected by many factors, with the cone angle being recognized as a critical parameter determining the classification performance. In the context of recycling iron ore tailings, this paper primarily focuses on the influence of cone angles and their combination sequences on the classification performance of quartz particles within a dual-cone hydrocyclone through numerical simulations. The upper and lower cone angles were configured in 16 combinations to assess their respective impacts on classification. The results indicate that the upper cone angle primarily governs the pressure drop and tangential velocity, thereby controlling the centrifugal intensity and cut sharpness. Furthermore, the lower cone angle plays a pivotal role in determining axial velocity and particle enrichment ratio in the lower cone, thus influencing the cut size and grade efficiency. These findings should provide valuable guidance for the design and application of compound cone hydrocyclones, depending on specific requirements.