áčF = áčU + áčOF: power; U: underflow; O: overflow; áč: mass flow.
Use when: Overall balance in steady state, without accumulation.
Hydrocyclone classification
Distinguish between overflow and underflow currents and read a particle size cutoff.
What is happening?
A tangential supply under pressure generates a rotating flow. Particle trajectories depend on their size, density and hydrodynamic conditions; the two outputs are not perfectly separated.
The underflow is generally more loaded with coarse particles and the overflow is finer. Pressure, solids concentration and outlet dimensions influence sharing, shorting and classification quality.
The formulas, with their conditions.
dâ
â : taille donnant 50 % de partage vers la sortie considĂ©rĂ©edâ â: unit of length.
Use when: Specify the raw or corrected short-circuit curve; it's not a perfect cut.
Where is this principle used?
Closed grinding circuit
Return a coarse fraction to the crusher.
Mineral processing plant
Classify or deslime a pulp.
What to observe in the experiment
Modify the pressure then observe the distribution of solids at the two outlets and the distribution curve.
References and readings
This sheet explains the principles and their assumptions. Educational simulation can simplify the process; an industrial model requires suitable data and validation.
Have you understood the essentials?
Only one correct answer per question. Answer all three questions, then view the answer key.
Intu Lab · Understanding sheet · Kimba Christian