An analysis of the steady state power consumption in a continuous centrifugal is presented. The analysis includes the no-load power losses (drive, bearings and windage) which are typically one-third to one-half of the total power usage. Further, a total energy analysis provides a simple but accurate evaluation of the power necessary for massecuite separation. The effects of massecuite feed rate, basket speed, basket diameter and molasses attachment on fugal power requirements can be predicted, giving favourable agreement with measured data.