Cyclone Technology for Central Heating Filtration

Many of these units rely solely upon magnets for the separation of debris from system flow. There is a concern that these filters do not also protect the boiler and other central heating system components (such as pumps and valves) from damage, as a result of non-magnetic debris and contaminants. The debris which can be found within a central heating system varies greatly depending upon factors such as the age of the system, the quality of installation and maintenance, the quality of component manufacture and more. The types of non-magnetic debris found within a system include but are not limited to; non-ferrous swarf, flux, casting sand and spalled scale.

It is for this reason that a greater emphasis on the removal of all types of system debris is required, and therefore a progression away from magnets towards a more advanced, all-encompassing method of filtration. Cyclones are used in both domestic and commercial environments to separate solid matter from liquid or gaseous mixtures. A popular domestic brand of vacuum cleaner makes use of cyclone technology for central heating filtration is the Sentinel Eliminator, which uses Quadra-Cyclone technology for the removal of all kinds of central heating debris.

Hydrocyclonic separation makes use of centrifugal force to separate heavy particles from liquids. It works by manipulating liquid flow into a cyclone or vortex. The resultant centrifugal force impels the heavier components -the system debris - towards the outer edges of the vortex. Once separated from the flow, gravity causes the particles to sink towards the bottom of the cyclone. Here, free of debris, the cyclone geometry squeezes the clean water towards the inner vortex of the hydrocyclone, exiting through the top of the separator unit.

Even though hydrocyclones take on the primary role of debris removal in this revolutionary new filter, cyclone magnets still play a part in retaining the debris, keeping it securely in place within the collection chamber. Unlike other filters which rely on a single, usually centrally located magnet assembly of cylindrical magnets, the Eliminator makes use of four separate bar magnets, providing an even magnetic field across the collection chamber strong enough to retain magnetic debris and prevent recontamination of the system flow. The debris can then be removed either via the anti-tamper flushing valve, or the removable collection chamber.

By making use of this Quadra-Cyclone technology instead of simply relying on a single cyclone magnet, Sentinel are revolutionising the way in which central heating filters are designed. As always, focusing innovative thinking to maximise energy saving through improving the efficiency of central heating systems.