Determination of Phase Behaviour in De-Watering Hydrocyclones Using Resistivity Measurements: Feasibility Study

Abstract

A small scale experimental study of phase inversion in a hydrocyclone using brine in kerosine dispersions at flow rates up to 30 ℓ/min is described. An array of stainless steel electrodes was used with diameter 1.5mm fitted through the wall to end flush with the wall, also there were three pairs of diametrically opposed electrodes. Resistivity was measured with wave recorders energising the electrodes with a 3kH_z alternating current square wave supply at very low current and with a 1% brine solution. Precautions to obtain valid results using this technique are described; variations in flow rate, split ratio and water drop size were explored. Whilst the technique requires further developments, it provided clear evidence of near wall localised changes in composition. It emerged that radial concentration distributions can be measured and thus there is a good prospect of obtaining three-dimensional isoconcentration contours. These contours would be of considerable help in understanding the behaviour of cyclones where phase inversion occurs.