Numerical Simulation of the Paticles' Track in a Cyclone Separator

The movement of particles in a cyclone separator has been studied by numerical simulation. We adopt the Reynolds stress model for the single-phase and the coupling discrete random walk model for the two-phase. The physical mechanism for the movement of particles in a cyclone separator is revealed by describing the particles' tracks. The results show that the particles' movement is more complex and random. The small particles are easily influenced by turbulence, and their tracks and finally positions are different even if their diameters and first positions are the same. The small particles are more easily influenced by the second vortex so that they reduce the separating efficiency. We have also predicted the phenomena affecting the separation efficiency--the up ash loop, the short circuit of exhaust duct and the return confusion of eject dust duct. All this makes for a better understanding of the separation mechanism of cyclone separator, and forms the basis for the further theory and experiment study on the cyclone separator.