Abstract:An Algebraic Stress Turbulence Model (ASM) was introduced into the numerical simulation of the strongly swirling turbulent flow in a hydrocyclone, and the predicted results fit well in the experimental data. The turbulence structure in the hydrocyclone was investigated by combining numerical simulations with experimental studies. The results showed that the radial distributions of the turbulent kinetic energy at different axial positions are similar to each other and can be featured as unsymmetrical saddle-backed curves. The distribution of the turbulent kinetic energy dissipation rate is similar to that of the turbulent kinetic energy. The absolute and relative pressure fluctuations are very large in the inner helical flow and under the vortex finder. The turbulent fluctuating pressures at some positions, especially in the inner helical flow within upper cone section do not fit in Gauss distribution, which indicates that the turbulent fine-structure intermittency exists at these positions.

Key words: hydrocyclone　numerical simulation of turbulence　turbulence structure