Research Topic

Development of a design methodology for the optimization of a wet separator for submicron metal particles

The processing of metals by grinding, brushing and polishing produces very small metal particles which, when mixed with air, can form an explosive atmosphere. Nowadays machining processes emit even smaller metal particles, of which separation is becoming more and more complex and requires downstream filter elements, especially for the alveolar dusts (primarily PM1 and PM2.5 fraction). The additional separators are associated with a higher pressure drop and increase the energy consumption. In contrast to conventional dry separation processes, innovative wet separators can be able to separate the particle fractions with comparatively low pressure drop.

Due to the latest development of additive manufacturing processes (3D printing), there are hardly any limits to the geometry of components today, which has enormous potential for the nozzle design of new wet separators.

The main emphasis of this work is the development of a new wetting and separation process which aspirates the washing fluid for wetting the metal particles and mixes it with the exhaust gas through fluidic effects. A design methodology for the optimization of a special washing nozzle for the wet separation of very small metal particles will also be investigated.