The effect of multi-inlet flow on particle classification, performance of hydro-cyclones was examined experimentally and via a simulation study. Cut size of the type A cyclone with two inlets flow indicated smaller cut size and sharp separation performance compared to the standard cyclone. Numerical simulation indicated a nearly uniform rotational fluid velocity profile for the type A cyclone. On the other hand, the standard cyclone showed a non-uniform rotational velocity profile near the inlet pan of the main flow. The type B cyclone with a small additional flow injection area, showed smaller cut sizes as the flow rate of the additional flow increased. The type B cyclone showed smaller cut size compared to the standard cyclone without the additional flow. The use of a multi-inlet cyclone is quite effective at improving particle separation performance compared to the standard one. (c) 2007 Published by Elsevier B.V.