Static and dynamic stability in dense medium separation processes

Static and dynamic stability in dense medium separation processes are defined, and a model for dynamic DMS systems provides the density differential (a measure of dynamic stability) as a function of the static stability and parameters related to the geometry of separatory vessels and operating conditions. A pilot test rig was installed to: (a) study the behaviour of conical and cylindrical dense medium dynamic separators particularly concerning sink and float densities and density differential under different operating conditions; (b) check the correlation model between density differential and static stability. The results provide an interesting description of the different behaviour of conical and cylindrical vessels, regarding the density differential they exhibit, and help explain the differences between the performance of the two types of separators.