Variable-Section Cyclone Separator for Pressure Loss and Separation Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cyclone separators face limitations in achieving ideal operating parameters such as lowest possible pressure loss and highest possible degree of separation due to fixed cross-sectional geometry of the guiding means, restricting their application to specific process streams.
Innovation Solution
A cyclone separator with a guiding means that is variable in cross-section, allowing adaptation to different process streams by adjusting its geometry to optimize operating parameters, including the use of elastic guide tubes and controlled cross-sectional changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a fixed cross-sectional geometry of the guiding means is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the cyclone separator cannot achieve ideal operating parameters (lowest pressure loss and highest separation degree) for many process streams
Solution Approach 1:
The guiding means is designed with a variable cross-section along its axial extension, transforming the static geometry into a dynamic configuration that adapts to different process streams. This allows the cyclone separator to optimize operating parameters for various applications while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The cross-sectional parameters of the guiding means are varied along its axial extension to achieve optimal separation performance. By changing geometric parameters (cross-sectional area, shape) rather than the overall structure, the design achieves adaptability while keeping manufacturing complexity manageable.
2Device complexity
If a fixed cross-sectional geometry of the guiding means is used, then the device complexity is low, but the area of application is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The guiding means features a variable cross-section that can be adjusted or designed to match different process stream requirements. This dynamic geometric configuration expands the area of application without significantly increasing device complexity, as the variation is achieved through controlled changes in cross-sectional parameters rather than complex mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The cyclone separator with a variable cross-section guiding means can handle multiple types of process streams and achieve ideal operating parameters across different applications. This multi-functionality is accomplished through the geometric flexibility of the guiding means rather than through multiple separate devices or complex adjustment mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cross-section of the guiding means is made variable, then the cyclone separator can achieve optimal operating parameters for different process streams, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The variable cross-section of the guiding means is achieved by varying geometric parameters (area, shape) along the axial direction rather than through complex mechanical adjustments. This approach optimizes operating parameters for different process streams while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing and structure.
4Ease of manufacture
If a fixed cross-sectional geometry is used, then manufacturing is simpler, but pressure loss cannot be minimized for all process streams
Solution Approach 1:
The cross-sectional parameters of the guiding means are varied along its axial extension to minimize pressure loss for different process streams. This geometric optimization allows the cyclone separator to achieve ideal operating parameters including lowest possible pressure loss while maintaining ease of manufacture through controlled parameter variation rather than complex structural changes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the cyclone separator to achieve a favorable balance between low pressure loss and high separation efficiency across various process streams by dynamically adjusting to changing stream properties.
Implementation Method 1
solids and/or liquids are carried radially outwards by centrifugal force
Implementation Method 2
The guiding means (11) is designed to be variable in cross-section over at least a part of its axial extension
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a cyclone separator (1) for separating solids and/or liquids from a process stream, comprising a process space (3) which is formed at least by a surrounding wall (2) and a covering (5) and is round in cross section, an inlet port (4) which penetrates the surrounding wall (2) for enabling intake of the process stream into the process space (3) in the circumferential direction (U) of the process space (3), an outlet port (6) which penetrates the covering (5) for enabling the exit of the process stream from the process space (3) in the axial direction (A) of the process space (3), an immersion tube (7) which extends into the process space (3) from the outlet port (6) in the axial direction (A), and guiding means (11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4) extending centrally in the process space (3) in the axial direction (A) and impinging into the immersion tube (7). According to a first aspect of the invention, the cross section of the guiding means (11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4) can be varied at least in one part of its axial extent. The invention further relates to a method and to a cyclone separator system.