To study vortex characteristics in cyclone separator

advanced RNG k-ε turbulence model was applied to numerical simulation of strongly rotational gas flow in cyclone separators with single volute inlet. In addition

Q criterion was used to identify vortex structure and to plot more obvious and highly detailed 3D iso-surface of vortex structure. The results showed that equivalent diameter of Q criterion iso-surface was large in upper cylinder and became smaller downward along the axis

indicating gradual decay of vortex-carrying energy. The vorticity iso-surface was not distributed regularly but distorted around central axis. Because of friction resistance

vorticity magnitude decreased sharply and energy lost rapidly near the wall. Furthermore

the deviation of vortex core center from geometric center exhibited a trending process of enlarging in the upper cyclone cylinder

decreasing downward along the axis gradually

and stabilizing eventually at the bottom of the cyclone cylinder. In this process

vortex developed rapidly

sometimes even ruptured

which caused loss of dynamic energy. Therefore

measures to enhance balance of vortex structure were conducive to reduce energy loss

to curb flow instability

and to increase separation efficiency.