EXPERIMENTAL OPTIMIZATION OF THE REVERSE-FLOW SWIRL CHAMBER
Abstract
A high-pressure-reverse-flow vortex chamber is a device designed for the purpose of separating sub-micron particles out of a gas flow. The requirements for separation of sub-micron particles from a curved flow are given, and an equation determining the minimum angular velocity necessary for separation in a vortex flow is presented. Three swirl (vortex) chambers were tested and modified to determine their optimum performance. Results show that inlet geometry, method of injection, injection nozzle size, exhaust diffuser spacing, and internal chamber dimensions are important factors when optimizing chamber performance. The testing and modification has led to the evolution of a swirl chamber that can develop an overall pressure ratio of 30 and a pressure recovery of 85% for a chamber inlet total pressure of 300 psig. The internal flow pattern of the swirl chamber was studied using talcum powder for particles and high-speed motion picture photography (7,000 fps) as an aid in observing gross particle movements. This study has verified the fact that the swirl chambers are basically-capable of separating sub-micron particles out of a gas flow.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0465075
Entities
People
- Robert Poplawski
- Thomas D. Fiorino Jr.
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology