Improving cyclone performance by proper selection of the exit pipe

Cyclone performance is determined by pressure drop and collection efficiency. This study aims to optimize the dimensions of the exit pipe to improve cyclone performance. A numerical technique was used which is based on an Eulerian-Lagrangian approach. The behavior of the cyclone was studied by solving the three-dimensional, incompressible turbulent flow governing equations. The turbulent flow was modeled by using Reynolds Stress Model. Particle trajectories were obtained by solving the particle equation of motion. The collection efficiency was obtained by releasing a specified number of particles at the inlet of the cyclone and by counting the collected particles. The model was verified by comparing the numerical results to published experimental measurements. It was found through this study that increasing exit pipe diameter decreases the pressure drop through the cyclone and affects also the collection efficiency while exit pipe length does not affect cyclone performance significantly. It was concluded that the performance of the standard cyclone can be improved by prober selection for the diameter of the exit pipe. The data obtained through this study was represented in performance maps. These maps allowed the selection of the exit pipe diameter to obtain the maximum collection efficiency while avoiding excessive pressure drop. (C) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.