Texas A&M Cyclone Design for High Temperature Gas Streams

Particulate Removal from Simulated High Temperature Gas Streams Using Cyclones Daniel Luehrs Abstract Cyclones have been used for inertial separation of large particles (greater than 10 microns) in multiple applications for many years. Texas cotton gins meet permit requirements by the use of 1D3D cyclones as Best Available Control Technology (BACT) due to the high efficiencies achieved. The Texas A&M Cyclone Design (TCD) method determines the size of cyclones at standard temperature and pressure (STP) and calculates pressure drop at actual conditions. Lab results and field applications verify the high efficiency of cyclones designed using the TCD method. However, cyclones designed using this method have not been tested at operating conditions exceeding normal ambient temperatures. When used in gasification and engine exhaust applications, it is uncertain that cyclones will achieve the expected calculated efficiencies of the TCD method. Data from tests at normal ambient conditions can be used to construct a cyclone testing system that can evaluate cyclone performance at higher temperatures. Consequently, cyclone performance at high temperatures will be tested to validate or modify the design parameters using the TCD method. The effects of higher temperatures on air density, viscosity, cyclone size, cut point, and pressure drop will be tested and evaluated to determine the relationship between gas temperature and cyclone performance.