Abstract Inadequate waste management systems in lower-middle income nations like Nepal has been worsening environmental pollution and public health risks. This study performs design sizing of an airflow-driven cyclone separator for waste segregation and tests performance of a fabricated model. The separator is designed based on standardized cyclone geometry equations incorporating parameters such as dynamic viscosity, particle density and air density, and efficiency is determined using Leith-Licht’s equation. Multiple designs are evaluated and 2D2D configuration is found to be the most effective in capturing fine particles. The cyclone separator includes motor, impeller, cyclone chamber and waste collection hopper. Tests were conducted with 1500 rotation per minute (rpm) motor, adjusting different speeds to study the system’s performance. The experimental results demonstrated an average efficiency of 85% in segregating particulates above 20 microns. While the model demonstrated potential as a resource-efficient solution, minor challenges were observed in handling denser particulates, indicating opportunities for further refinement. Future improvements may include automated monitoring systems with sensors and dust collectors, as well as optimization of cyclone geometry to enhance fine particle filtration efficiency.
Niraula et al. (Fri,) studied this question.