ABSTRACT
Gravitational sedimentors are used to separate solids from
a liquid fraction by settling the solids through the liquid
under gravity. Similarly, centrifugal separators separate
solids from liquids using centrifugal force. The best exam-
ple of a sedimentation centrifuge is the nozzle discharge
centrifuge. When the liquid fed to a disk or tubular cen-
trifuge contains some amount of solids, it results in inter-
mittent stoppages to remove the solids. In such cases the
nozzle discharge centrifuge is used. The working of this
centrifuge is similar to a disk centrifuge, except for a set of
nozzles provided in the walls of the vessel through which
the solids are thrown out because of the larger centrifugal
force that it experiences. In a nozzle discharge centrifuge, a
considerable amount of the liquid is also discharged along
with the solids. In such cases the slurry removed from the
nozzles may be recycled or wash liquid may be provided.
The nozzle discharge is used in the oil and starch indus-
tries. In the dairy and oil industries, an intermittent dis-
charge of solids is accomplished with a periodic opening of
the bowl itself.[5,6]
