Effect of Air Density on Cyclone Performance and System Design

1D3D and 2D2D cyclones were tested at Amarillo, Texas, to evaluate the effect of air density on cyclone performance. Both airflow rate and cyclone inlet velocity change with the change in air density. Two sets of inlet design velocities determined by the different air densities were used for the tests: one set based on the actual airflow, and the other set based on standard airflow. Experimental results indicate that optimal cyclone design velocities, which are 16 m/s (3200 ft/min) of standard air for 1D3D cyclones and 15 m/s (3000 ft/min) of standard air for 2D2D cyclones, should be determined based on standard air density. It is important to consider the air density effect on cyclone performance in the design of cyclone abatement systems. The proposed design velocities should be the basis for sizing cyclones and determining the cyclone pressure drop. The recommended sizes for 1D3D, 2D2D, and 1D2D cyclones are reported in this article.