What is the Difference Between Purifier and Clarifier?

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The main difference between a purifier and a clarifier lies in the number of phases they separate and the types of materials they handle. Here are the key differences:

  1. Purifier:
  • Separates one liquid from another liquid and solids simultaneously, making it a three-phase separator.
  • Commonly used to separate fuel from water and solid particles.
  • Consists of a dam ring and requires sealing liquid.
  • Has two outlets on top, one for water and one for pure oil.
  1. Clarifier:
  • Separates a liquid from solids, which is also known as two-phase separation.
  • Primarily used to separate solid impurities from fuel.
  • Does not require sealing liquid due to the absence of the gravity ring.
  • Can also remove some quantity of water.

In summary, a purifier is a more complex device that can separate multiple phases, including liquid-liquid and solid-liquid mixtures. On the other hand, a clarifier is a simplified version that focuses on separating solid impurities from a liquid, typically fuel.

Comparative Table: Purifier vs Clarifier

The primary difference between a purifier and a clarifier is their purpose and method of separation. Here is a table summarizing the key differences between the two:

Feature Purifier Clarifier
Separation Separates one liquid from another liquid and solids simultaneously (three-phase separation) Separates a liquid from solids (two-phase separation)
Dam Ring Consists of a dam ring to create a line of separation between fuel and water Does not have a dam ring
Gravity Disc Has a gravity disc Does not have a gravity disc
Water Outlet Free water continuously discharges out from the purifier Water outlet is sealed
Bottom Disc Bottom disc has holes Bottom disc has no holes
Cleaned Oil Outlet Only cleaned oil outlet at the top Only cleaned oil outlet at the top

Both purifiers and clarifiers are centrifugal separators used for cleaning fuel in the maritime industry. Purifiers excel in separating fuel and water while effectively removing solid impurities, facilitated by dam rings. Conversely, clarifiers focus on separating solid impurities from fuel while partially reducing water content, aided by sealing rings.