Numerical prediction of short-cut flows in gas-solid reverse flow cyclone separators

Abstract

The effect of operational and geometrical parameters on the short-cut flow in cyclone separators has been investigated computationally using the Reynolds stress model (RSM). The motion of solid particles in the flow field was simulated using the Eulerian-Lagrangian approach with one way discrete phase method (DPM). Eleven cyclones with different cone tip diameters, vortex finder lengths and diameters were studied and the simulation results were analyzed in terms of velocity fields, pressure drops, cut-off diameters and short-cut flows. The numerical simulation was verified with the published experimental results. The results obtained demonstrate that all three parameters, particularly, vortex finder diameter, have significant effects on the cut-off diameter (collection efficiency), the short-cut flow and the pressure drop.