The Effects of Vortex Finder Dimensions on the Natural Vortex Length in a New Cyclone Separator

The shape and structure of the vortex formed inside a cyclone separator are very important for the cyclone efficiency, because they mainly govern the separation process. There are many geometrical and operational parameters affecting the vortex. This paper presents experimental results on the effects of the vortex finder dimensions and the surface friction on the vortex length. The cyclone used in this investigation is cylindrical with no conical bottom. The cyclone pressure drop and the vortex length are recorded for each test performed using different flow rates. The results reveal that an increase of the cyclone height, i.e., of the frictional surface, leads to a decrease of the vortex length. It was also shown that the diameter and length of the vortex finder adversely affect the vortex length.