Internal Components Optimization in Cyclone Separators: Systematic Classification and Meta-analysis

ABSTRACT Current studies on improving the separation performance of cyclone separators focus on five aspects: i] geometry-structure optimization, ii] geometry-parameter optimization, iii] operation-parameter optimization, iv] operating-condition optimization, and v] internal component optimization. Many scholars work on the design and use of internal components in a cyclone separator to solve various industrial problems, but they seldom systematically classify these internal components. In the last 1999–2019 years, reports on such classification were relatively rare. Compared to the other four aspects, the internal components optimization has a unique advantage: when the equipment operation fails, there is no need to replace the original equipment, just the defective component, which greatly saves both maintenance and engineering expenses. In this review, several kinds of internal cyclone components are systematically summarized and classified, including their mechanism and usage effect. Furthermore, the trends in internal component development have also been prospected. Combined applications, development of new components and applications of new materials are the three main trends. In the future, internal components will be more diversified, detailed, precise and simplified. Finally, we expect that these developments will not only improve the separation efficiency and reduce the pressure drop but also satisfy requirements in environmental protection and process security.