Operational performance characteristics of an axial double baffles three channels classifier for coarse pulverized coal

In order to obtain the working principle of the axial direction classifier and raise its separation efficiency, the flow field and classification performance of the classifier was investigated by numerical simulation and experimental measurement. The particle size distribution at inlet, outlet and return pipe was measured by laser particle size analyzer and coupled with Rosin-Rammler model. The particle trajectory was analyzed using the discrete phase model. The tangential velocities played a dominant role in particles radial distribution mainly in the form of Rankine vortex. The axial velocities determine the vertical distribution of particles. The velocity distributions and turbulence influence the cutting particle size and separation efficiency mostly. The most suitable condition is baffles angle of 20° and inlet velocity of 19.3 m/s considering the load of the mill and the fineness of the pulverized coal at the inlet of the classifier. [Display omitted] •A full size model of complex industrial classifier was established.•The fishhook effect of separation efficiency occurred in the classifier.•The Rankine vortex exists in the classifier.•Effects of air volume and baffles angle on classification were studied.•The classification performance of the classifier was obtained.