Recently, GN Separation successfully completed the production and delivery of a hydraulic-driven decanter centrifuge, model GNLW364-FHD, for a leading starch processing facility overseas. This system features a hydraulic drive solution from Viscotherm, a globally renowned hydraulic technology brand, marking a significant advancement in efficient and sustainable separation technology for high-viscosity applications.
How a Hydraulic Decanter Centrifuge Works
A decanter centrifuge plays a vital role in industries that require continuous solid-liquid separation. Its primary function is to use centrifugal force to separate suspended solids from liquids based on their density differences. Here’s a step-by-step overview of its operation:
- Feed Introduction: The slurry (e.g., starch slurry) is pumped into the rotating bowl via a stationary feed tube.
- Centrifugal Sedimentation: As the bowl spins at high speeds (typically between 2,000 and 4,000 RPM), centrifugal forces of up to 3,000×G push denser solids toward the bowl wall, while the lighter liquid forms an inner layer.
- Conveyor Mechanism: A screw propeller, rotating at a slightly different speed than the bowl, continuously moves the settled solids toward the conical end of the bowl for discharge.
- Phase Separation: Clarified liquid exits through adjustable weirs at the cylindrical end, offering precise control over separation efficiency.
In hydraulic drive systems, the rotation of both the bowl and the screw is fully or semi-powered by hydraulic motors. Unlike traditional mechanical gearboxes, hydraulic systems allow for infinitely variable speed control and dynamic torque adjustment, optimizing performance in response to changing feed conditions.
Advantages of Hydraulic Drive Systems
The newly delivered decanter centrifuge utilizes the Viscotherm hydraulic drive system, a hybrid design that combines hydraulic and mechanical elements. This hydraulic-driven horizontal screw centrifuge delivers high torque output by efficiently transmitting power through the hydraulic system, making it ideal for processing high-viscosity and high-concentration materials.
Stable Torque Output
The hydraulic drive system ensures smooth, efficient operation, reducing vibration and noise, while enhancing separation efficiency and stability.
Accurate Differential Control
The hydraulic system offers precise differential control, achieving better stability and accuracy at extremely low differential speeds. This is crucial for applications requiring high separation precision.
Robust Adaptability to Harsh Conditions
Hydraulic systems feature excellent heat dissipation and sealing, allowing them to perform reliably in tough environments such as high temperatures and humidity.
Reliable Sealing Performance
The hydraulic design incorporates strict sealing to prevent external contaminants from entering the system, protecting product purity and minimizing downtime due to malfunctions. This ensures operational stability and reliability.
Compact and Lightweight
Hydraulic differentials are compact and lightweight. Compared to larger, heavier mechanical differentials, they exert less pressure on the main bearings, contributing to the overall efficiency of the centrifuge.
Typical Applications of Hydraulic Decanter Centrifuges
- Starch & Biofuel Production
- Wastewater Treatment
- Chemical & Pharmaceutical Industries
- Mining & Minerals
GN Separation’s hydraulic decanter centrifuge represents a major advancement in industrial separation technology. For more information on GN’s decanter centrifuges or to schedule a consultation, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.