Pusher Centrifuge

What is a Pusher Centrifuge?

A Pusher Centrifuge is an advanced separation device that uses centrifugal force to separate different materials. In this type of centrifuge, the feed material enters from one side, and after the rotation of the centrifuge bowl, the materials are separated into layers and typically discharged through two or more separate outlets—for solids and liquids.

Due to its simple design, efficient performance, and high flexibility in various industrial processes, the pusher centrifuge is widely used across multiple industries, and it is especially suitable for solid-liquid separation.

Hamgam Sanat Knowledge-Based Company, as a pioneer in the design and manufacturing of rotating equipment in Iran, produces high-quality pusher centrifuges for the oil, gas, petrochemical, food, and pharmaceutical industries. These centrifuges provide reliable performance and high separation efficiency using modern engineering solutions and local technology.


Technical Specifications of Pusher Centrifuges

  • Operating Principle: Centrifugal force for material separation.
  • Rotational Speed: Typically ranges from 3,000 to 5,000 RPM, depending on the model and application.
  • Capacity: Available in various capacities, from small laboratory units to large industrial models.
  • Design: Usually features a multi-stage bowl with discs to increase contact surface area and improve separation efficiency.
  • Discharge Mechanism: Solids and liquids are discharged separately through two or more outlets.
  • Construction Materials:
    • Stainless steel (304 or 316) for corrosion and chemical resistance.
    • Heat- and pressure-resistant alloys for high-temperature and high-pressure applications.
    • Industrial-grade plastics for lighter-duty applications or where weight reduction is important.

Advantages

  • High efficiency for precise material separation.
  • Time-saving due to high-speed operation.
  • Accurate separation of solids and liquids.
  • Versatility for various industrial applications, including pharmaceutical, chemical, mining, and food industries.

Limitations

  • Requires regular maintenance due to high speed and mechanical pressure.
  • Higher initial cost, especially for large industrial models.
  • Potential reduction in efficiency if solids stick to the bowl walls.

Structure and Operation

A pusher centrifuge consists of a rotating bowl into which the feed material enters. The bowl typically contains multiple discs to increase the contact area with centrifugal force. During rotation, materials separate according to their density:

  • Heavier solids move toward the outer walls and form outer layers.
  • Lighter materials remain closer to the center of the bowl.

Separated materials are discharged through designated outlets in a controlled and layered manner.


Process Steps

  1. Material Entry: Solids and liquids are introduced into the centrifuge through the feed inlet.
  2. Rotation and Separation: The high-speed rotation of the bowl applies centrifugal force, pushing heavier solids outward and lighter liquids inward.
  3. Material Discharge: Separated solids and liquids exit through separate discharge outlets.

Types of Pusher Centrifuges

  • Large Industrial Centrifuges: For mining, chemical, pharmaceutical, and food industry applications.
  • Laboratory Centrifuges: For research and small-scale experiments.
  • Explosion-Proof Centrifuges: Designed for hazardous environments or flammable chemical processes.

Applications

  • Chemical Industry: Separation of solids from liquids in chemical processes.
  • Pharmaceutical Industry: Solid-liquid separation in drug production.
  • Food Industry: Oil extraction and separation of solids from liquids in food processing.
  • Mining Industry: Mineral extraction from ore.
  • Water and Wastewater Treatment: Clarification and removal of suspended particles.

Comparison with Other Centrifuge Types

  • Disk Centrifuges: Mainly used for more precise separation with multiple discs, while pusher centrifuges use separate outlets for solids and liquids.
  • Decanter Centrifuges: Designed for high-volume processes with a single bowl and two outlets, whereas pusher centrifuges provide layered separation under pressure.
  • High-Speed Centrifuges: Used for ultra-fine separations or very high-speed requirements; pusher centrifuges are suitable for medium-capacity and versatile industrial applications.

Conclusion

Pusher centrifuges are highly effective separation devices, valued for their simple design, high speed, and precise performance. Selection depends on the type of material, process capacity, and specific industry requirements.

Hamgam Sanat Knowledge-Based Company manufactures high-quality, reliable pusher centrifuges, ensuring enhanced efficiency, reduced operational costs, and consistent product quality across various industrial applications.