The present paper describes the development of a Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) modeling approach suitable for the analysis, design, and optimization of rotating centrifugal separator stage geometries. The Homogeneous Multiple Size Group (MUSIG) model implemented in the commercial code CFX V13.0 was utilized as a basis for the CFD modeling method. The model was developed through a series of studies to understand the impact of droplet size distribution, particle coalescence, rotor/stator interface treatment, and mesh resolution on the prediction of separation efficiency for a given rotating separator geometry. This model was then validated against the OEM's extensive in-house experimental separation testing database. The resulting CFD modeling method is shown to adequately reproduce observed trends in separation performance over a wide range of operating conditions.
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