A cyclone classifier is a type of air classifier used in industrial processes to separate particles based on size, shape, or density using centrifugal forces and airflow. It operates similarly to a standard cyclone separator but is optimized for classification rather than just separation.
How a Cyclone Classifier Works:
1. Feed Introduction – A mixture of particles and air (or gas) enters the cyclone tangentially at high velocity.
2. Centrifugal Separation – Larger or denser particles are forced outward against the cyclone wall due to centrifugal force and spiral downward.
3. Fine Particle Extraction – Lighter or smaller particles remain suspended in the airflow and exit through the vortex finder (top outlet).
4. Coarse Particle Discharge – Heavier particles drop into a collection hopper at the bottom.
Key Applications:
– Mineral Processing: Separating fine and coarse particles in grinding circuits.
– Cement Industry: Classifying raw meal or finished cement.
– Powder Industries: Controlling particle size distribution in chemicals, food, or pharmaceuticals.
– Recycling: Sorting materials by density or size.
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Advantages:
✔ No moving parts → Low maintenance
✔ High throughput capacity
✔ Dry classification (no liquid required)
✔ Adjustable cut size by changing airflow or geometry
Limitations:
✖ Less precise than dynamic classifiers (e.g., air classifiers with rotors)
✖ Efficiency drops for very fine particles (<5–10 microns)
✖ Sensitive to feed consistency and moisture
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Comparison with Other Classifiers:
| Feature | Cyclone Classifier | Dynamic Air Classifier |
|——————|——————-|————————|
| Moving Parts | None | Rotor/blades |
| Precision | Moderate | High |
| Energy Use | Low | Higher |
| Cut Size Range | 5–200 µm | 1–100 µm |
Would you like details on design parameters (e.g., diameter, cone angle) or performance optimization?