Development of a multi-tube axial flow cyclone separator system for use in nuclear gas cleaning systems

Axial flow cyclone separators have been used typically to protect gas turbine and Diesel engines and control systems from abrasive airborne contaminants. The axial flow cyclone system provides a permanent, high efficiency, non-clogging separator with no moving parts and minimum maintenance requirements. In this paper the development, testing and application of separator panels using multiple 2-stage separators are described. Several nuclear application concepts are discussed, and details are given of a specific installation at Dungeness B nuclear power station. The design objectives for the separator system were: (a) to develop the dust separation efficiency to a level above that of existing units and (b) to minimize dust hold-up within the separator assembly so as to minimize the exposure of maintenance personnel to radioactive debris. The multi-tube separator assembly achieved an efficiency of separation of 98.5% and a dust hold-up of 162 g when tested with AC coarse test dust