Abstract: A separator for separating particles carried in a fluid carrying medium is disclosed. The separator includes an elongated duct and associated openings incorporated in a solid body. The duct is axisymmetrical relative to its longitudinal axis, and includes a curved wall portion having a curved cross-section taken along the longitudinal axis. An axisymmetrical opening located downstream of the curved wall portion leads from the duct into an axisymmetrical channel which is substantially radially disposed relative to the longitudinal axis. Continuation of the duct downstream of the opening is a discharge portion which is substantially colinear with the longitudinal axis. In operation, a substantial majority of the fluid carrying medium leaves the duct radially through the opening and channel in a state substantially free of particles.

Abstract: A separator for separating micron and submicron sized particles from a carrying gas, is disclosed. A carrier gas contains a component which is capable of condensation in the separator. The carrier gas is accelerated and flows at high velocity in a duct. The lower limit of the high velocity is approximately Mach 1.0. Due to the acceleration to the high velocity the static temperature of the carrying gas decreases. As a result, the condensable component condenses on micron and mainly on submicron sizes particles which act as nucleation sites. Liquid droplets formed during the condensation are in the micron size range. The paths of the high velocity flow of the carrier gas and of the solid and liquid particles carried therein is influenced by a combination of a centrifugal force and an oblique shock zone which is created within the high velocity flow. As a result, the particles travel a different path than the carrying gas and are effectively captured and disposed by an appropriately positioned receiving member.