Slotted sieves are important tools for filtering, sorting and separating materials into different particles or fractions. The characteristics of slotted sieves include not a few items that can make a huge difference to a particular customer’s request.
The basic characteristics of sieves used in separators include:
Basic characteristics of slotted sieves
Mesh size
The mesh size of sieves varies depending on the application and the requirements of the separation result. Different standard mesh sizes are available for different applications. The larger the mesh size, the larger the particles can pass through, whereas smaller mesh sizes will only pass smaller particles. The mesh size also affects the efficiency of the screening process, with smaller cells providing finer separation but requiring more time and effort.
Mesh shape
Slotted sieve mesh shapes can vary, including square, rectangular, circular or other shapes. Each cell shape has unique characteristics that affect separation efficiency. For example, round cells are better suited for separating fine particles, while rectangular cells may be better suited for separating coarse particles. In general, the shape of the cells is selected depending on the request and the required separation characteristics.
Hole size
Hole size affects the speed and efficiency of separation. It is an extremely important characteristic that helps to regulate the filtration or separation process. If the holes in a spalt sieve are too large, small particles can slip through without being separated. If the holes are too small, however, material can become stuck, increasing drag and reducing the efficiency of the process. Thus, the choice of slot sieve opening size depends on the particle size and the purpose of the filtration or separation process.
Screen Material
Slotted screens can be made from a variety of materials including steel, stainless steel, aluminium, copper, brass and other metals. Sieves can also be made of plastic or other polymeric materials. The choice of material depends on the purpose of the sieve and the conditions of use. For example, for filtration of liquids with a high concentration of chemically active substances, stainless steel sieve is used. In case of necessity to provide electrical isolation, a sieve made of plastic is used.
Sieve thickness
The thickness of the sieve affects its strength and service life. A thicker sieve tends to be more durable and less likely to deform or become damaged – so it will have a longer life. However, a thicker sieve can also reduce the efficiency of the separation process by slowing the flow of material through the sieve. In this respect, a thin sieve has the advantage of encouraging faster material movement, but may not be as durable and may need to be replaced more frequently. In addition, the thickness of the sieve also affects the rigidity and stability of the overall structure. A thicker sieve tends to be more „stiff and stable“, whereas a thinner sieve is more „prone to bending and warping“. Ultimately, the choice of sieve thickness depends on the specific requirements of each application, including the type of material to be separated, the desired flow rate, and the level of shelf life and stability required.
Sieve Texture
Sieve texture can affect separation rate and efficiency because texture can affect friction and flow resistance. For example, a smooth surface reduces friction, increasing flow velocity, while a rough surface can reduce flow velocity but improve separation efficiency because it helps separate individual particles. It is important to remember that the texture must be appropriate for the application. The physical properties of the materials to be separated and the flow conditions such as pressure, temperature, etc. must be considered. It is recommended that a professional slotted screen manufacturer be consulted for best performance.
Type of separator
There are different types of separators, each suitable for specific applications. Some of these require the use of special types of screens to maximise efficiency.
For example, a centrifugal separator may be used to separate solids and liquids in chemical production. In this case, the suitable sieve type must have a large area and be made of materials that do not react with the corrosive liquid.
For particle separation in the mining industry, a flat slot sieve can be used. In this case, the sieve must be made of materials that are strong and resistant to wear to effectively handle the solids.
In general, each type of separator uses a different type of sieve that is best suited for its specific operating conditions. If small particles or finely crushed materials need to be separated, fine mesh and fine slotted sieves are used. If liquids and gases need to be separated, a cylindrical sieve can be used. If powders or bulk materials need to be separated, an arc sieve can be used.
The choice of sieve type depends on the characteristics of the material to be separated as well as the operating conditions such as working pressure, temperature, humidity, etc.