Cyclone Separator

Industrial Cyclone Separator Applications

The industrial cyclone separator is part of the air filtration and dust collection system in process manufacturing operations, often situated downstream of a drying process. Specializing in heavy-material-laden and often abrasive air, they separate heavier particulates out of the airstream using centrifugal force. A heavy-duty induced-draft fan pulls the process air through the cyclone and out to the next step, which is often a dust collection system like a cartridge or baghouse, an oxidizer, or industrial exhaust.

Your industrial cyclone separator environment and airflow will determine your process fan specifications. Scroll or hyperlink down to find Application Featured Products, Case Studies, and further application details as follows:

Primary Industries for Cyclone Separators

Many varied industries from grain and distilleries, to metals, plastic, and corrugated paper use a cyclone separator in their processes.

Cyclone Separator Fan Technology Selection & Specification

Higher efficiency cyclone separators have high velocities and need bigger fans due to the pressure drop through the cyclone. They also require more energy to operate. A high-efficiency Radial Tipped fan is a frequent go-to for cyclone separators, but there are several models that we use depending on the specific application.

Industrial Fan Designs Commonly Used for Cyclone Separators

Fan Arrangements, Accessories, & Design

Fan Arrangements indicate how the motors mount to and drive the fans. The cyclone separator typically calls for an Arrangement 4 or 4v direct-drive motor with an outlet damper, but on very large systems it’s likely to be an Arrangement 1 belt-driven fan.

These are the arrangement options:

Arrangement 1 – Belt Drive with an overhung impeller. The fan and motor mount separately to a unitary base.

Arrangement 4 – Direct Drive with an overhung impeller. A low-cost arrangement, the fan wheel mounts directly on the motor shaft.

Arrangement 4V / Top Mount – Direct Drive with an overhung impeller. The wheel also mounts directly on the motor shaft, but in a vertical position.

When it comes to design and accessories, it’s all about protecting and optimizing operations, maintenance, and life of the fan and bearings. With cyclone separators using radial wheels, it’s easy to underestimate the pressure drop and run out on the curve and over-amp the motor. Be sure to work with someone who asks all the right questions to get the specs right.

Industrial cyclone separator applications are relatively straightforward applications, but we often see:

Talk with Our Application Engineers

If you feel overwhelmed by all this information, don’t despair! We have a team of application engineers who are happy to talk with you and select the best fan for your application. You can call 715-365-3267, email fans@airprofan.com, or send us your information, and one of our engineers will connect with you.

Content Related to Cyclone Separator Applications

Here are related posts and case studies that might be of interest as you think about your application.