In order to analyze gas centrifuge performance, it is essential to know the concentration distribution. In the present paper the basic equation for centrifugal separation is drived from Hirschfelder's expression for binary diffusion. This two-dimensional partial differential equation can be solved very accurately by numerical computation. The velocity profile of the flows being likened to a step function, the concentration distribution and separative performance can be calculated for various types of centrifuges. This permits determination of the relation holding between such factors as cut, feed flow rate, feed point and reflux rate. Furthermore, comparisons are made between concurrent and countercurrent flows, and a discussion is presented on the characteristics of various countercurrent-those embodying circulation, as well as devoid of circulation and of reflux. These results should prove very useful for basic designs of centrifuges.

A. S. Berman

Papers

Flow and separation in a long countercurrent gas centrifuge