Analysis of Hydrocyclone Geometry via Rapid Optimization Based on Computational Fluid Dynamics

Hydrocyclones exploit density gradients for the centrifugal separation of dispersions in a continuous liquid. Selection of the geometrics for optimal separation is case specific, like the media characteristics. The existing optimization method based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) provides a powerful analytical tool but requires long computational times. The most common praxis for CFD optimization is via the single-factor optimization method (SFOM). In this study, a novel approach is presented as an improved rapid optimization method that implements a dynamic-mesh and user-defined function optimization method (DUOM). The DUOM adapts the dynamic-mesh approach from other applications to the optimization analysis of hydrocyclones. The DUOM reduced the computational time by 31.1 %, compared to the SFOM.

Automated summary

Hydrocyclones use density gradients for centrifugal separation of dispersions in liquid, with optimization usually based on computational fluid dynamics that has long computational times. A new rapid optimization method, DUOM, reduced computational time by 31.1% compared to the common SFOM method.