The Performance of the Hydrocyclone as a Classifier

Abstract

In the light of the fact that the hydrocyclone is essentially a classifier, performance tests were carried out using an experimental unit. In order to evaluate the results of classification, Tromp's distribution curve method was adopted in relation to particle size. This paper gives the results of the work, including some suggestions with respect to the cut size d_T ; in the afore-mentioned distribution curve, d_T is the particle size at 50% partition of the underflow discharge. The influences of the following factors upon the cut size d_T were investigated : (1) Feed inlet velocity v_i, (2) Diameters of vortex finder D_o, underflow nozzle D_u and cylindrical portion D, (3) Dimension of inlet nozzle √(bh), (4) Height of cyclone H, (5) Inserted length of vortex finder S, (6) Pulp density δ_f and specific gravity of feed slurries s. In addition to the above, the author has shown the following theoretical formula : cut size d_T may be expressed as Eq. (4.2).