Decanter centrifuges have become a cornerstone in industrial separation processes, offering reliable performance across wastewater treatment, chemical processing, food production, and the oil & gas sector. Their ability to efficiently separate solids from liquids makes them indispensable for operations seeking higher productivity and lower operational costs.

Fig.1 Decanter Centrifuge

The trend in centrifuge technology is moving towards greater automation and control. Modern decanter centrifuges increasingly integrate PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) systems, enabling precise control over rotational speed, feed rate, and cake dryness. PLCs not only optimize separation efficiency but also enhance safety by allowing real-time monitoring and automated fault response, reducing human intervention and operational risk.

In oil and gas applications, safety is paramount. Explosion-proof (Ex) designs for motors, electrical cabinets, and control panels ensure that centrifuges can operate safely in potentially hazardous environments. The combination of robust mechanical design, PLC automation, and explosion-proof technology makes centrifuges a reliable choice for demanding industrial settings, including offshore drilling, refinery wastewater treatment, and drilling mud processing.

At GN Separation, we have delivered solutions worldwide—from pharmaceutical wastewater treatment plants in Europe to power generation facilities in Asia—demonstrating the versatility of decanter centrifuges. As industries demand higher efficiency, safer operation, and remote monitoring, the adoption of PLC-controlled, explosion-proof centrifuges continues to grow, solidifying their role as essential equipment in modern process engineering.

In the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, wastewater treatment is one of the most critical yet challenging processes. Pharmaceutical effluents often contain high levels of suspended solids, organic matter, and other complex compounds that must be efficiently separated before discharge or reuse. The GNLW364-VFD dewatering centrifuge is designed to address these challenges, providing a reliable and energy-efficient solution for solid-liquid separation in pharmaceutical wastewater treatment systems.

1. Meeting the High Standards of the Pharmaceutical Industry

Pharmaceutical production demands strict compliance with environmental and regulatory standards. The GNLW364-VFD centrifuge ensures effective dewatering of sludge while maintaining process cleanliness and safety. Constructed with stainless steel 316L contact parts, the unit offers superior corrosion resistance against chemical agents commonly present in pharmaceutical waste streams. Its fully enclosed design minimizes odor emission and contamination, creating a clean and hygienic working environment.

2. Optimized Performance with Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)

Equipped with a VFD control system, the GNLW364 allows operators to precisely adjust the bowl and scroll speeds to suit different feed conditions. This flexibility enables optimal separation efficiency even when the feed composition fluctuates. The system’s intelligent control panel provides real-time monitoring of parameters such as torque, flow rate, and vibration, ensuring stable operation and preventing overload. This adaptability makes it suitable for both primary sludge thickening and final dewatering stages in wastewater treatment lines.

3. Sustainable and Cost-Effective Operation

The dewatering centrifuge significantly reduces the moisture content of sludge, lowering transportation and disposal costs. By improving the dryness of the discharged solids, it minimizes waste volume and supports sustainable resource management. Additionally, the GNLW364-VFD’s energy-efficient drive system helps pharmaceutical plants reduce power consumption and carbon footprint, aligning with global trends toward greener production.

In summary, the GNLW364-VFD dewatering centrifuge is a proven and trusted solution for pharmaceutical wastewater treatment. With its high efficiency, flexibility, and compliance with industry standards, it plays an essential role in helping pharmaceutical facilities achieve cleaner, safer, and more sustainable wastewater management.

Mining operations produce enormous volumes of tailings — a slurry composed of fine solids, water, and residual minerals — that must be properly treated before reuse or disposal. Traditional tailings ponds and dams are facing increasing challenges, from limited space to stricter environmental regulations. In this context, decanter centrifuges are transforming tailings management by enabling rapid, efficient solid-liquid separation with minimal environmental impact.

GNLW764: Engineered for Large-Scale Mining Applications

The GNLW764 Decanter Centrifuge, GN Separation’s largest and most powerful model, is specifically designed for large-scale operations such as mining tailings dewatering and TBM slurry treatment. Featuring a 30-inch (764 mm) bowl and heavy-duty construction, it delivers high throughput and reliable performance under demanding conditions. To withstand abrasive slurries, critical wear zones — including the screw conveyor blades and solids discharge ports — are protected with tungsten carbide coatings, ensuring exceptional durability, reduced maintenance, and long service life.

The centrifuge is also equipped with a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) control cabinet, allowing precise adjustment of rotational speed to suit different materials. Real-time monitoring of vibration and temperature enhances operational safety and ensures stable, efficient performance.

Optimized Dewatering with the GNSJY6000 Flocculation Unit

For even better separation results, GN recommends integrating the GNLW764 with its GNSJY6000 Flocculation Dosing Unit. This automated system accurately injects flocculants into the slurry, causing fine particles to bind into larger clusters that separate more easily. The combined setup boosts solids recovery, increases water clarity, and reduces overall processing costs.

In summary, the GNLW764 Decanter Centrifuge represents a powerful, sustainable solution for modern mining operations. By combining advanced materials, intelligent control, and complementary flocculation technology, it helps operators achieve efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective tailings management.

With the GNLW764 Decanter Centrifuges now ready for dispatch, GN Separation is poised to strengthen its position as a professional solution provider in industrial separation technologies, delivering value to clients and contributing to a more sustainable future for the mining industry.

Centrifuges play a vital role in industries such as chemical processing, pharmaceuticals, food, and mining by separating solids and liquids efficiently. However, improper use can lead to equipment damage, poor separation performance, or even safety hazards. Below are several essential points to consider when operating a centrifuge.

1. Balance and Loading Are Critical

One of the most common causes of vibration and mechanical failure in a centrifuge is unbalanced loading. Before starting the machine, ensure that all containers, tubes, or feed compartments are loaded symmetrically and evenly. In batch-type centrifuges, equal mass on opposite sides of the rotor prevents excessive stress on the bearings and drive system. For continuous decanter or disc centrifuges, steady feed flow is key—sudden surges can upset the balance and cause wear. Always check that covers are properly closed and that no foreign objects are inside the bowl before operation.

2. Monitor Operating Parameters and Maintenance

Centrifuges operate under high rotational speeds and generate significant centrifugal forces. Operators should regularly monitor parameters such as rotational speed (RPM), feed rate, vibration level, and bearing temperature. Exceeding the recommended speed or operating with a worn bearing may lead to mechanical failure.
Routine maintenance is equally important—inspect seals, belts, and lubrication systems frequently. Scheduled replacement of consumable parts such as gaskets and bearings helps maintain separation efficiency and prolong service life. Following the manufacturer’s maintenance intervals ensures stable operation and prevents costly downtime.

3. Prioritize Safety and Training

Because centrifuges involve high-speed rotation, safety precautions are non-negotiable. Operators should be trained on emergency shutdown procedures and aware of the specific materials being processed—some slurries or chemicals may create explosive or corrosive conditions. Always keep safety guards in place, avoid opening covers while the bowl is still spinning, and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). In addition, it’s good practice to record operating data and perform vibration analysis periodically to detect early signs of imbalance or mechanical fatigue.

Conclusion

Proper operation and maintenance of a centrifuge not only enhance performance but also ensure safety and reliability. By balancing loads carefully, monitoring key parameters, and maintaining strict safety discipline, operators can maximize uptime, extend equipment lifespan, and achieve consistent separation results in any industrial process.