CFD Simulation of the Separation Zone of an Annular Centrifugal Contactor

Abstract This paper presents computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of the flow inside the rotor of an annular centrifugal contactor. The model geometry was based on the rotor of a commercially available contactor unit with a closed upper weir. Simulations were performed at various flow rates and it was found that the narrow flow area above the upper weir seals with water at high flow rates resulting in the formation of a siphon. A method for predicting the zero-point flow rate from CFD was also developed and simulations were performed which demonstrate a zero-point elevation due to this siphon.