Exam Question
(a) Explain the working principle of a fuel oil purifier. (8)
(b) Explain briefly the significance of the friction clutch mechanism. (4)
(c) List the alarms and trips associated with a purifier. (4)
Class 4 (4th Engineer)
MEKG
📅 Nov 2024
Reference Answer
### (a) Explanation of the Working Principle of a Fuel Oil Purifier
A fuel oil purifier operates on the principle of centrifugal separation, utilizing the difference in specific gravities of immiscible liquids and solids to separate them. This process is significantly more effective than gravity separation due to the high centrifugal force generated.
**1. Fundamental Principle (Centrifugal Separation):**
* **Stoke's Law Application:** While Stoke's Law describes particle settling under gravity, centrifugal force dramatically amplifies this effect. In a purifier, the denser components (water and sludge) are forced outwards towards the bowl wall, while the lighter component (purified fuel oil) moves inwards towards the axis of rotation.
A fuel oil purifier operates on the principle of centrifugal separation, utilizing the difference in specific gravities of immiscible liquids and solids to separate them. This process is significantly more effective than gravity separation due to the high centrifugal force generated.
**1. Fundamental Principle (Centrifugal Separation):**
* **Stoke's Law Application:** While Stoke's Law describes particle settling under gravity, centrifugal force dramatically amplifies this effect. In a purifier, the denser components (water and sludge) are forced outwards towards the bowl wall, while the lighter component (purified fuel oil) moves inwards towards the axis of rotation.
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