PARTE 2 1) The centrifugal separator is used to separate two liquids, for example oil and water, or a liquid and

solids as in contaminated oil. Separation is speeded up by the use of a centrifuge and can be arranged as a continuous process. Where a centrifuge is arranged to separate two liquids, it is known as a 'purifier'. Where a centrifuge is arranged to separate impurities and small amounts of water from oil it is known as a 'clarifier'.
2) A centrifuge consists of an electric motor drive to a vertical shaft on the top of which is mounted the bowl assembly. An outer framework surrounds the assembly and carries the various feed and discharge connections. The bowl can be a solid assembly which retains the separated sludge and operates non-continuously, or the bowl can be arranged so that the upper and lower parts separate and the sludge can be discharged while the centrifuge operates continuously. The dirty oil is admitted into the centre of the bowl, passes up through a stack of discs and out through the top.

3) The purifying process The centrifugal separation of two liquids, such as oil and water, results in the formation of a cylindrical interface between the two. The positioning of this interface within the centrifuge is very important for correct operation. The setting or positioning of the interface is achieved by the use of dam rings or gravity discs at the outlet of the centrifuge. Various diameter rings are available for each machine when different densities of oil are used. As a general rule, the largest diameter ring which does not break the 'seal' should be used.

The clarifying process

Cleaning oil which contains little or no water is achieved in a clarifier bowl where the impurities and water collect at the bowl periphery. A clarifier bowl has only one outlet gravity disc is necessary since no interface is formed; the bowl therefore operates at maximum separating efficiency since the oil is subjected to the maximum centrifugal force 4) Two different designs are used for this method of operation; a long narrow bowl and

a short wide bowl. The narrow-bowl machine has to be cleaned after a shorter running period and requires dismantling in order to clean the bowl. Cleaning of the bowl is, however, much simpler since it does not contain a stack of discs. The wide-bowl machine can be cleaned in place, although there is the added complication of the stack of conical discs which must be cleaned. 5) The sludge deposits build up on the bowl periphery as separation continues, and the ejection
process is timed to clear these deposits before they begin, to affect the separation process, at regular intervals.

6) The HFO is usually contaminated with catalytic fines. These are small particles of the

catalysts used in the refining process. They are extremely abrasive and must be removed from the fuel before it enters the engine.

7) Homogenisers A homogeniser is used to create a stable oil and water emulsion which can be burnt in a boiler or diesel engine. Such an emulsion is considered to bring about more efficient combustion and also reduce solid emissions in the exhaust gas.