If you have already knew how to choose a decanter centrifuge, and already done some test, found out some valuable data with sample testing, it is successfully handled by the decanter centrifuge, and well knowing the size, expected performance, right scale, solid & liquid properties seems good too. Then also have some professional operator to run it. All seems perfect, then with a running centrifuge, is there anything you need to take care?
Below info. maybe a hint.
-Feed Rate
-Bowl Speed
-Pool Depth
-Pool Length
-Conveyor /Bowl Differential Speed
-Feed Concentration
-Feed Temperature
Find some good centrifuges here: http://gnsolidsaustralia.com/drilling-fluids/gnlw363fhd-full-hydraulic-decanter-centrifuge
-Feed Rate
This adjustment is probably the easiest to carryout and does not involve stopping the centrifuge. The effect of feed rate on performance can be generalised as follows.
The higher the feed rate the less residence time the liquid has in the bowl hence the harder to
settle out possible ultra fines. Conversely the lower the feed rate the longer the liquor residence time and hence the easier to obtain clear liquors and in some instances 100% recovery of solids.
-Bowl Speed
Can be changed automatically with VFD drive, or manually with changing the belt / pulley, to change the G force.
Higher speed normally means better result, less moisture, more fine solids separated.
Whilst higher power consumption, more general wear and tear too.
-Pool Depth
This is not able to adjust while operating, normally rotate all the weir plates. Consequently the deeper pool depth, the shorter drying beach, then the wetter the discharged solids.
-Pool Length
The effective pool length can be adjusted by feeding in one of usually mo feed compartments. By feeding in the feed compartment nearest to the liquor discharge end of the bowl, the effective pool length is shortened hence the least residence time for the liquid. Respectively the longer the pool the longer the residence time
-Conveyor /Bowl Differential Speed
The conveyor to bowl differential (Delta RPM) is altered by changing the bowl speed due ro the
gearbox. The gearbox itself can be changed for a different ratio, though an expensive change
once in the field.
The lower delta rpm, the longer residence time, and the dryer cake, but also less capacity.
Too low delta rpm may cause overloading the conveyor with solids
-Feed Concentration
High concentration will cause poor separation.
-Feed Temperature
The hotter feed, the less viscous, and the better result.
Generally for many many years, the principles and philosophy of centrifuge operation is not changed, the subject of centrifuge operation is complexed, and also simple, with combination of application experience, testing, or even designning, you will have your own invaluable knowledge about material, desired separation results etc.
Still GN Solids Control team is ready to be even more helpful.