Theoretical study of the flow field inside a hydrocyclone with vortex finder diameter greater than that of apex opening—I. Laminar case

Abstract

The axi-symmetric laminar boundary layers, formed on the conical surface and under the cyclone roof, have been calculated by Pohlhausen's method assuming that the tangential velocity outside boundary layers varies as r ⁻ⁿ up to the point where boundary layers meet solid body rotating liquid column and thereafter as r—as found in experiments—where r is the distance from the axis of the cone and n is flow pattern constant. Point of interaction of the boundary layers with solid body rotating liquid column has been taken from experimental results obtained with a hydrocyclone having vortex finder diameter greater than that of apex opening. Results show that there is no possibility of separation of boundary layers from cyclone wall.