A numerical and experimental survey of a liquid-liquid axial cyclone

An inline oil/water separator based on an axial cyclone is studied numerically and experimentally. Single phase measurements were done with LDA and compared with numerical data, obtained with Reynolds avaraged Navier-Stokes equations with the Reynolds-stress model SSG. Results show an annular region with reversed axial flow and declining rotation due to friction at the wall, giving a qualitative agreement between numerical and experimental data. A method is introduced to determine the phase distribution inside a liquid-liquid axial cyclone, based on electric conductivity. Preliminary results indicate a time-dependent oil-rich kernel. Presented results for the separation efficiency of the tested axial cyclone indicate the need for better understanding of swirling flow.