Dimensioning a Cyclone Separator for Circulating Fluidized Bed Gasifier: Validation of a Procedure

Abstract

The transformation process of biomass through gasification may produce a large amount of solid particles of different granulometry. In order to avoid equipment damage, these particles must be separated from the producer gas before it is utilized in other processes. This separation can be performed through a cyclone separator. This equipment is part of the circulating fluidized bed gasifier and is responsible for particulate separation and producer gas partial cleanup. Cyclone dimensioning requires careful attention and must be done according to the conditions this device is going to be subject. Thus, this work aims to validate and analyze a dimensioning methodology and apply it to a gasifier. Three cyclone geometries were considered (Stairmand, Swift and Lapple) and they were compared in terms of collection efficiency and pressure drop. A parameter sensibility study was performed. Variations of dimension, efficiency and pressure drop for a producer gas volumetric flow range were tested. It was found that an increase of the volumetric flow rate provoked the rise of separation efficiency and pressure drop. From the tested geometries, Swift presented the highest collection efficiency and pressure drop.