The effect of particulate solids on pressure drop across a cyclone

Abstract Using relatively coarse (over 0.1 mm) particles, it is shown that a cyclone is capable of trapping an inventory of solids, which leak to the dipleg and also, more slowly, to the gas outlet. The inventory of solids has a maximum value, which depends on the size and shape of the particles. It was found that at the limit of zero solids inventory the cyclone pressure drop reduction due to the presence of solids is proportional to the projected area of the trapped solids, the proportionality constant being a function of particle shape.