Introduction
An industrial centrifuge is a machine that separates or purifies materials on large scale by using centrifugal force. Centrifuges function by spinning a sample at high speeds and separating the components of the sample based on density, size, or shape. Industrial centrifuges can be utilized for a variety of purposes, including the separation of liquids and solids, the purification of chemicals, and the separation of mixtures based on their qualities.
Also read: Centrifuge Machine – Its Parts, Types, and Application
Principle of Centrifugation
The industrial centrifuge spins quickly, with many revolutions per minute (rpm). This rotation generates an inner centripetal force and an outward relative centrifugal force. This relative centrifugal force is several hundred times more than the gravitational pull we experience on Earth. A heterogeneous mixture of solid in liquid will separate due to gravity and result in a sediment at the bottom of the container if given enough time. The same process is at action inside the industrial centrifuge, but because of the immense centrifugal force, the separation occurs in minutes.
Types of Industrial Centrifuges
Industrial centrifuges are classified into three types: decanter centrifuges, filter centrifuges, and sedimentation centrifuges:
Decanter centrifuges
Decanter centrifuges, also known as decanters or horizontal decanter centrifuges, are a type of industrial centrifuge that is widely used in many industries for the continuous separation of solids from liquids or the simultaneous separation of two immiscible liquids of different densities. They are well-known for their ability to handle huge volumes of material while also providing efficient solid-liquid separation. Continuous-feed separators extract particulates from liquids. Typically used in the food business to separate olive oil from olive paste or in the oil sector to purify crude oil.
Filtration centrifuge
A filtration centrifuge works by rotating a basket with small openings that allow liquid to pass through while retaining particulates. Filtering centrifuges come in a variety of configurations, including:
- Perforate Basket Centrifuge
- Peeler Centrifuge
- Pusher Centrifugal Centrifuge
Figure 2: Assembly of filtration centrifuge (Lin and Wu 2022)
Sedimentation centrifugation
The sedimentation centrifuge, unlike the filtration centrifuge, has a closed bowl. The solids accumulate around the bowl’s wall due to centrifugal force, while the liquid separates from the solid. The liquid leaves through an output passage once the liquid and solids have been separated. Sedimentation centrifuges come in a variety of configurations, including:
- Disgorgement Centrifugation
- Solid-bowl Basket Centrifuge
- Disk-stack Centrifuge
- Tubular Bowl Centrifuge
Components of Industrial Centrifuge
An industrial centrifuge is a mechanical device that uses centrifugal force to separate different densities of material. It is made out of a spinning drum or bowl that is powered by a motor and is utilized in a variety of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemical processing, food and beverage, and oil and gas.
The following are the most important components of an industrial centrifuge:
The separation system
It is the component of the centrifuge that separates the various substances based on their densities. It could consist of screens, filters, or other separating systems.
The driving system
It comprises of a motor and gearbox system that rapidly turns the drum or bowl.
The feed system
It transports the material to be separated into the centrifuge. It could be a feed pipe, a feed valve, or another type of feeding device.
The bowl or drum
This is the centrifuge’s main component, and it is where the separation occurs. Stainless steel or another corrosion-resistant material is often used for the drum or bowl.
The control system
It is the component of the centrifuge that regulates its functioning, such as the speed and length of the separation process. A control panel, sensors, and other control devices may be included.
The discharge system
It removes the separated materials from the centrifuge. It could incorporate a discharge valve or another type of discharge mechanism.
Industrial Centrifuges Applications
- Fuel and biofuel industry, which consists of synthetic fuels, biodiesel, ethanol, cellulosic ethanol, dehydration of algal biomass, fuel and lubricant oil purification, and so on.
- Water treatment includes the separation of municipal, agricultural, DAF (dissolved air flotation), trap grease, drilling mud, and environmental wastewater sludge.
- Chemical processing that produces raw materials such as acids, salts, oil refining byproducts, polymers, oil-water solids, and so on.
- Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies that manufacture, among other things, medications, vaccines, medicines, penicillin, mycelia, E. coli bacteria, algae, and enzymatic waste.
- Coal, tar sands, copper, precious metals, calcium carbonate, kaolin clay, and a variety of other minerals are mined and processed.
- Refining of vegetable oils, dairy (milk, cheese, etc.); rendering of chicken, swine and cattle; separation of yellow, white and brown grease; extraction of fruit and vegetable juice; clarifying of beer, wine and spirits, etc.
Use of Industrial Centrifuge machine in Pharmaceutical industries
The development of continually pure batches of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) is the most important goal for the pharmaceutical business. The moisture content is important for concentration and storage, especially to avoid cross-contamination with other substances. In the pharmaceutical sector, an industrial centrifuge is typically used to dry out the API into a layer cake of material.
A basket centrifuge is used to do this. A basket centrifuge is a horizontal centrifuge that has a huge basket filter. As the centrifuge spins, water or other solvents go through the pores of the filter, and solid API collects on the inside of the basket because it is too big to fit through the holes. This is also known as de-liquefying.
Additional wash stages can be undertaken before the API layer cake has dried completely. It is critical that the cake remain at a thickness of one inch or less to ensure adequate washing and drying during the centrifuge process.
In order to protect API against cross contamination and undesired reactions, centrifuges are frequently supplied with an infusion of nitrogen gas. These commercial centrifuges are designed to be clean and easy to clean and disinfect between batches.
Features of Industrial Centrifuges
The following are some common characteristics of industrial centrifuges:
Variable speed
Variable speed control is available on many industrial centrifuges, allowing the operator to modify the speed of the centrifuge based on the specific separation requirements.
High speed
Industrial centrifuges work at high speeds, often ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand revolutions per minute (RPM). The fast speed creates the centrifugal force that separates the substances.
Self-cleaning features
Some industrial centrifuges include self-cleaning abilities, such as automatic wash cycles, to help keep the centrifuge clean and free of contamination.
Automatic balancing
Some industrial centrifuges include automatic balancing systems that aid in the maintenance of a stable and balanced load while in operation. This can help to improve separation efficiency while also lowering the chance of mechanical failure.
Control panel
The majority of industrial centrifuges contain a control panel that allows the operator to regulate and monitor the centrifuge’s operation. The control panel may contain buttons, switches, and displays for adjusting the speed, timing the separation process, and monitoring the centrifuge’s operation.
Safety features
To protect the operator and the equipment, industrial centrifuges may have emergency stop buttons, safety interlocks, and other safety systems.
Advantages of Industrial Centrifuges
- Industrial centrifuges are extremely effective at separating material of varying densities and can reach great degrees of purity in the separated products.
- Centrifuges can separate enormous amounts of material in a short period of time, giving them a quick and effective technique to separate substances.
- Industrial centrifuges have economical operational expenses since they do not utilize chemicals or other costly separation processes.
- Centrifuges can separate a variety of substances, including liquids, solids, and gases, making them a useful tool in a variety of industries.
Disadvantages of Industrial Centrifuges
- Industrial centrifuges can be costly to purchase and install, requiring a considerable initial investment.
- Centrifugation is essentially based on increasing gravitational forces. While this is frequently sufficient for many common applications, some more complex applications may require additional purification. Magnetic Separation is an excellent purification enhancer, where filtering primarily by mass can be supplemented with filtration by charge density. There are several circumstances in which leaving specific analyte of interest after purification would benefit quick separation.
- Centrifuges have a limited capacity and may not be appropriate for separating huge amounts of material.
- Centrifuges are susceptible to contamination and may require thorough cleaning and maintenance to function properly.
- Industrial centrifuges are complicated mechanical machines that are susceptible to mechanical failure or breakdown.
Advancement in Industrial Centrifuges
Smarter Control Systems
Advanced control systems and sensors have been added for real-time monitoring and adjustment of centrifuge parameters, boosting efficiency and safety.
Energy Conservation
More energy-efficient centrifuge designs are being developed in order to reduce operational costs and environmental effect.
Material Upgrades
Advanced materials are used in centrifuge construction, boosting durability and resistance to corrosion.
Applications of Nanotechnology
Adoption of nanotechnology in different sectors for finer particle separation and enhanced product quality.
Precautions
- Always begin by thoroughly studying and understanding the user manual for the individual centrifuge model you are using. Learn about the machine’s controls, safety features, and maintenance methods.
- Before operating the centrifuge, make certain that you and any nearby personnel are wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), which may include safety goggles, lab coats, gloves, and hearing protection, depending on the type of centrifuge and the materials being processed.
- Before each usage, inspect the centrifuge for any evident signs of damage or wear. Examine the vehicle for any loose or damaged parts, such as bolts, gaskets, and seals. Check that all safety interlocks and emergency stop buttons are working properly.
- Wait for the centrifuge to come to a complete stop before attempting to open the lid or access the rotor. Some centrifuges contain lid-locking devices that automatically release when the rotation stops.
- If samples or materials contain potentially dangerous compounds, dispose of them in line with hazardous waste legislation.
- Follow the maintenance regimen indicated by the manufacturer. Inspect and service the centrifuge on a regular basis to ensure it functions safely and efficiently.
- Ensure that all people who will be using the centrifuge are fully trained in its safe operation and maintenance procedures.
- Make sure you and others are aware of the position and operation of the emergency stop button or switch. In an emergency, turn off the centrifuge immediately.
Conclusion
Industrial centrifuges are important tools that support a wide range of industrial operations, from pharmaceutical manufacturing to wastewater treatment and beyond. Their ability to segregate components based on density has made them indispensable in a wide range of applications. Industrial centrifuges are evolving in response to ongoing technology breakthroughs, providing increased efficiency, lower environmental impact, and greater variety in fulfilling the demands of modern industry. As we move forward, it is conceivable that these incredible devices will play an even larger role in a variety of industrial areas.
Reference
- Hjorth M, Christensen KV, Christensen ML, Sommer SGJSAV. 2011. Solid–liquid separation of animal slurry in theory and practice. 953-986.
- Lin C-C, Wu J-MJS. 2022. A Novel Centrifugal Filtration Device. 9(5): 129.
- Michalak M, Iwaszenko S, Wierzchowski KJNCfII, Systems D. 2011. Mining for Mining—Application of Data Mining Tools for Coal Postprocessing Modelling. 137-146.
