Numerical simulation of the separating performance of hydrocyclones

The flow behavior in hydrocyclones is quite complex. The Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) method was used to simulate the flow fields inside a hydrocyclone in order to improve its separation efficiency. The RSM turbulent model (Reynolds Stress Model), which abandons the isotropic eddy-viscosity hypothesis, was used to analyze the highly swirling flow fields in hydrocyclones. The ASM Model (Algebraic Slip Mixture Model) was used to simulate the separation performance. The volume fraction distribution and grade efficiency curve are given. The separating efficiency for 60 mu m water particles is more than 90%. The majority of 60 mu m water particles are carried to the underflow. An increase in particle size will improve the efficiency by increasing the centrifugal force on the particles. Based on the simulation, the effects of the overflow tube dimensions on the separation performance were studied. The overflow tube dimensions of the hydrocyclone were modified, and the results showed that the Reynolds Stress Model successfully predicted the characteristics of the flow, and the simulated performances were in good agreement with those obtained by tests.