THEORETICAL OPTIMIZATION OF AN INDUSTRIAL VACUUM CLEANER TANK FOR THE SEPARATION OF LIGHT AND HEAVY PARTICLES

Abstract

This research paper aims to establish a theoretical foundation for manufacturing a tank for an industrial vacuum cleaner designed to collect both light and heavy particles. Through the examination of existing approaches, we have concluded that a prefiltration step in the form of a cyclonic separator is essential. The authors have developed multiple tank variants designed to maximize cyclone separation efficiency for heavy particles while simultaneously ensuring efficient aspiration for light particles. The proposed designs also aim to identify variables that impact cyclonic separation and are not currently included in widely used models. Through rigorous finite element analysis and evaluation, we have selected the most promising model. By applying Lapple's equation, the chosen design was optimized for both types of particles. The results indicate exceptional collection efficiency of 99.99% for heavy particles. For light particles, the removal efficiency ranges from 32.68% to 97.21%, depending on the particle size.

The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the development of a multipurpose industrial vacuum cleaner tank capable of effectively collecting light and heavy particles. Future research can explore strategies to improve the evacuation efficiency for light particles and the development of the current mathematical model of cyclonic separation.