Abstract: Gyratory and reciprocal motion classifiers for classifying particles in a fluidized particle bed according to size or density, and implementing a classification chamber for the fluidized particle bed and an activation chamber for enhancing the kinetic energy of particles prior to their introduction into the classification chamber. The activation chamber is movable with the classifier and preferably has a vertical thrusting surface and lateral surfaces convergent toward an exit opening which admits particles into the classification chamber in proximity to an upstanding surface for dispersing particles away from the point of entry and over and into the fluidized bed in a direction counter to the directional throw of the particle bed-supporting surface of the classification chamber.

Abstract: A particle separation method and apparatus carrying forward the teachings of U.S. Pat. No. 4,148,725 whereby separation of particles by density takes place in a size-classified fluidized bed of particles. Particles are disposed on a supporting surface having a plurality of generally concentric annular vertical reaction surfaces which together forms a plurality of annular channels occupied by the particles to be separated. The supporting surface and annular surfaces are agitated with a gyratory motion so as to induce particles in the fluidized bed to move within channels, and through openings between annular channels, toward a central collection zone.In the improved apparatus, the collection zone includes a plurality of vertically spaced horizontal reaction surfaces which enhance the fluidity of particles within that zone. A vertical barrier surface provides a smaller, annular zone of concentration at the center of the collection zone.

Abstract: A process and apparatus wherein a size-classified bed of particles is fluidized by agitating a supporting surface with a gyratory motion to fluidize the particle bed. Particles are contacted with surfaces, e.g, vertically projecting surfaces, movable with the supporting surface and defining two or more annular regions so as to impart sufficient fluidity to allow the particles to move within the particle bed and distribute themselves according to their relative densities. Particles are then permitted to move through openings between these annular regions whereby the more dense particles tend to accumulate in one of the annular regions and particles of lesser density are displaced into the adjacent annular region(s).Provision is made for continuously extracting from the aggregate particle mass either or both those particles of lesser density and those of greater density whereby a continuous selective separation of particles according to density takes place.

Abstract: A process and apparatus wherein a size-classified bed of particles is fluidized by agitating a supporting surface with a gyratory motion to fluidize the particle bed. Particles are contacted with surfaces, e.g., vertically projecting surfaces, movable with the supporting surface and defining two or more annular regions so as to impart sufficient fluidity to allow the particles to move within the particle bed and distribute themselves according to their relative densities. Particles are then permitted to move through openings between these annular regions whereby the more dense particles tend to accumulate in one of the annular regions and particles of lesser density are displaced into the adjacent annular region(s).Provision is made for continuously extracting from the aggregate particle mass either or both those particles of lesser density and those of greater density whereby a continuous selective separation of particles according to density takes place.