Design of air cyclones: part I - a review of applicable models

This paper presents a review of the available models used in the design, simulation and optimisation of air cyclones. These models are particularly important in computer-aided design of air cyclones. A review of the models indicates that the key design and simulation parameters of collection efficiency and pressure drop of air cyclone are governed chiefly by the cross sectional areas and lengths of the individual flow channels, operational conditions and physical properties of the feed. Analysis of the models shows that to increase cyclone efficiency, the following is required; decrease the cyclone diameter; decrease the outlet diameter; reduce the cone angle and increase the cyclone length. An increase in capacity can be achieved by increasing the cyclone diameter and length. An increase in pressure drop results in an increase in separation efficiency and a more concentrated underflow. The models reviewed in this study are useful in the design, testing and validation of air cyclones. Computer aided design, simulation and optimisation of processes involving air cyclone can also be carried out using these model