Abstract: A separator for use with a fluidized-bed bioreactor. A lift draws a slurry of liquid, media and biomass from the fluidized bed. A biomass discharge is connected to the lift and located above the height of the fluidized bed for discharging excess biomass. A media discharge, also connected to the lift, discharges media from the slurry and returns the media to the fluidized bed.

Abstract: A separator is provided for use with a fluidized-bed bioreactor. A lift draws a slurry of liquid, media and biomass from the fluidized bed. A biomass discharge is connected to the lift for discharging excess biomass. A media discharge, also connected to the lift, discharges media from the slurry and returns the media to the fluidized bed by means of a media return assembly.

Abstract: A deaerator device for separating non-condensable gases from condensate. The device includes an upper deaerator stage means comprising a spray nozzle assembly which directs liquid particles under high velocity into a hood located thereabove. In the hood, the particles are raised to their saturation temperature by steam introduced into the device wherein the non-condensable gases are liberated from the condensate and vented to the atmosphere. Located below the nozzles is tray for receiving the condensed water. The tray has a plurality of openings which directs condensate into a lower deaerator stage consisting of a packing which removes substantially all of the non-condensable gases left in the condensate.