What Is a Decanter Centrifuge?
A decanter centrifuge is an industrial device used to separate mixtures of solids and liquids or different liquids by centrifugal force. It is effective for solid-liquid separation, dehydration, and in some cases, three-phase separation of water, oil, and solids. Decanter centrifuges are known for handling a wide range of liquids and performing continuous, large-volume processing.
Applications of Decanter Centrifuges
Decanter centrifuges have diverse industrial applications:
- In the food industry for separating and dehydrating soy milk, extracting juices, and starch separation.
- In the chemical field for processes involving synthetic resins, dyes, pigments, and catalyst recovery.
- In the iron and steel industry for separating materials like pulverized coal, ore powder, and slag.
They are also crucial in wastewater treatment and various manufacturing processes.
Principle of Decanter Centrifuge
Decanter centrifuges work by spinning the mixture at high speeds, causing solid-liquid separation due to differences in specific gravity. The process involves feeding the mixture, rotating the bowl, separating solids, dewatering, and discharging separated components.
Types of Decanter Centrifuges
- Vertical Type: Offers a smaller footprint than horizontal types.
- Equipment with Mechanical Seals: Allows for airtight, high-pressure separation.
- Specialized Types: Includes designs for specific applications like cake rinsing and sludge concentration, as well as models capable of handling high temperatures.
Decanter centrifuges can be horizontal or vertical, with various modifications for improved efficiency and application-specific needs.