Sugar industry centrifugation: Which centrifuge type is most commonly used in sugar mills for separating massecuite (sugar crystals and mother liquor)?

Introduction / Context:
Raw and refined sugar production requires separation of sugar crystals from the mother liquor (molasses). The mixture, called massecuite, is highly viscous and contains relatively large crystals. Centrifugation is the standard unit operation to achieve effective separation.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Massecuite contains sizable crystalline solids with sticky mother liquor.
• Robust mechanical handling and washing of crystals within the basket is required.
• Industry practice guides equipment choice more than “laboratory” centrifuge types.

Concept / Approach:
Suspended batch basket centrifuges (also called batch sugar centrifugals) feature a perforated rotating basket lined with a screen. The massecuite is charged, liquor is forced out by centrifugal action, and the sugar crystals are retained as a cake. Water or steam washing may be applied before discharging the crystals.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the physical characteristics: large crystal size, viscous liquor → suitable for basket centrifuge.Batch processing matches crystallizer output cycles and washing needs.Therefore, the standard choice is the suspended batch basket centrifuge.

Verification / Alternative check:
Industry texts and equipment suppliers list “batch sugar centrifugals” as the workhorses in sugar mills, capable of high g-forces and effective washing.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Tubular/Disc-bowl: used for fine, low-solids applications (e.g., polishing bio-broths), not for large crystal cakes.
• Perforated horizontal basket continuous: found in some continuous duties, but traditional sugar massecuite separation is typically batch.
• Vacuum filters: not the principal equipment for crystal–liquor separation in sugar centrifugation step.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming high-speed clarifier centrifuges suitable for all slurries; crystal size and cake washing needs dictate basket centrifuges in sugar mills.

Final Answer:
Suspended batch basket centrifuge