Since the invention of the first dairy centrifuge in 1864, industrial centrifuges have seen a lot of developments. The separation process has been refined, and the results are unparalleled. The multi-billion oil industry is a huge beneficiary of centrifuge technology. The separation of the different components of crude oil is important for the processing of different fuels. Moreover, wastewater management relies on centrifuge technology for the successful separation of solids from the water before treatment. Unlike traditional centrifuges, the latest models of centrifuges have unique characteristics that make them ideal for the job.
Large capacity
The bowl in a solid bowl centrifuge is key for the efficiency of the separation system. The difference in densities between two forms of matter forms the principle behind the centrifugal separation of solids and liquids. The solids accumulate in the bowl as the liquids drain through the outlet pipe. However, if the bowl is full, the efficiency of the process is reduced. Small capacity bowls warrant frequent cleaning, which is a constant interruption to the separation process. On the other hand, a large bowl system can go for long hours of operation without cleaning interruptions.
One of the large capacity centrifuges is the IC-45. It’s a high-quality centrifuge with a solid bowl holding capacity of 3 litres. The manual model, the IC-45M, requires cleaning of the bowl which interrupts the separation process. Nonetheless, the large capacity ensures interruptions are not frequent. If you wish to have long hours of uninterrupted separation, the modern IC-45 is the centrifuge of choice.
Automated cleaning system.
Cleaning is a major concern in any filtration or separation system. The accumulated filtrate and unwanted waste must be cleaned out of a filtration system or else the process will be compromised. Unfortunately, cleaning involves stopping the entire filtration process and taking out components of the centrifuge. Luckily the invention of the automated bowl cleaning system has minimised interruptions. The system comprises of four load cells that measure the weight of the bowl following solid extraction. Once the programmed threshold is passed, the automated cleaning system is activated. Moreover, a timer is installed to activate the system periodically. The timer comes in handy when the weight differences following separation are not significant to cause activation of the self-cleaning system. The IC-45A has an automated self-cleaning system, and the result is an efficient centrifuge with a capability of running for long uninterrupted hours.
Auxiliary functions
The latest releases of centrifuges have many standard and optional features. In some models, a variable speed drive (VSD) control and a flow metering control is installed on the supply pump to regulate flow into the centrifuge. The B2B monitoring system also has a fault alert for any defects in the centrifuge. Moreover, four-point dampeners, combined together for vibration isolation, form the vibration sensor. A pH dosing system also assesses the acid levels in the system. Finally, a weight detection system is also installed to the alert system of the centrifuge. The auxiliary functions of modern centrifuges are designed to maximise the efficiency of the centrifuge.
The use of centrifuges has extended to many sectors. From oil processing to water waste management, polymer manufacture and coal treatment, centrifuges are must-have machines. As the uses increases, the need for improvements is growing. Therefore until the perfect system is designed, the evolution of centrifuges is far from over.
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