Investigation of the asymmetric flow structure in a hydrocyclone

Abstract

The flow field of a hydrocyclone was investigated using both computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and particle image velocimetry (PIV). A refractive index matching method was employed to improve the precision of the PIV measurements. The CFD results are in good agreement with PIV measurements. Detailed analysis reveals significant axial asymmetry in the velocity components, with the radial velocity component exhibiting notable disparities. This observation is supported by quantitative data comparing different sections of the hydrocyclone. It is further found that the asymmetry might be mainly attributed to the secondary vortexes with the single inlet of the hydrocyclone. And the secondary vortexes, superimposed on the primary flow rather than existing on its own, spiral downwards from near the inlet towards the underflow orifice. It is hypothesized that specific boundary effects and pressure gradients play a pivotal role in the formation of secondary flows. This assumption is grounded on both theoretical considerations and empirical observations, suggesting that these factors significantly influence the flow dynamics within the hydrocyclone. The insights gained from our measurement methodology and enhanced understanding of secondary flows within hydrocyclones are not only poised to serve as valuable references for fellow researchers but also have the potential to inform the design and operational optimization of hydrocyclones for improved efficiency and performance.