light weight composite lamella

Purpose and goal

In this study, the possibility of using composite materials to reduce the weight of the rotating part in a unique air separator has been studied. Through weight reduction, expected to be approximately 75% and is based on a transition of materials from steel to composite, the number of lamellae in the rotating part of the air separator is increased significantly, and several rotors can be placed in a separation unit. The pilot study has led to the choice of materials and manufacturing method that gives laminates with a weight reduction of 75-90% compared to the existing lamella in steel.

Results and expected effects

The air-separators separation performance can be greatly increased with maintained or reduced weight, while its energy consumption is halved due to lower emission radius of the gas. Since the weight is reduced, the demands on power will be reduced. All this means that the cost of the air separator can be considerably reduced while performance is expected to rise significantly. In the preliminary investigation a detailed cost study of the air separator was carried out, and it indicates a cost reduction of 50% despite increased efficiency, thanks to the ability to use more lamella.

Approach and implementation

The possibilities to manufacture the lamella in composite has been examined, taking into account the environment and the stresses the lamellae are subjected to. Furthermore, a production method suitable for producing the lamella on a larger scale is studied and selected. These objectives have been met and the choice of material also included an investigation of fire hazard and surface energy to ensure the selection of a suitable material . A study of a concept based on the results has begun.