Abstract: The invention relates generally to a method of separating swarf lubricant from swarf solids. A centrifuge parts separator utilizes a screen which preferably comprises a cylindrical shaped member formed in one or more component parts with a plurality of spaced fluid passage openings therein with the ratio of the distance between the center lines of adjacent openings (x) and the median width of the openings (y) being x/y of at least 18/1. The swarf is centrifuged in the separator during the course of which operation, substantially all the swarf fluid passes through the screen openings whereas substantially all the swarf solid passes over the screen, the separated swarf fluids and solids each being directed to a collection site.

Abstract: In a fixed angle centrifuge having sample tube apertures symmetrically distributed around the spin axis of a rotor body, two rotor body shapes are disclosed at the rotor body top adjacent the openings to the sample tube apertures. These shapes each permit both release of the sample tube aperture cores and maintain the intersection of the top of the sample tube aperture within a plane normal to the axis of the sample tube aperture. A first shape includes placing discrete facets at the top of the rotor body adjacent the sample tube aperture openings. The second, and preferred embodiment, includes generating a spherical surface utilizing a spherical radius which is taken from the intersection of the spin axis of the rotor and the axes from each of the sample tube apertures. In both cases, precise termination of material molding the rotor body occurs at the top of the cylindrical portion of the sample tube aperture. Sample tube aperture core withdrawal easily occurs.

Abstract: A method for combining three different means of constructing the concentric layers of the outer collecting wall for industrial size centrifuges, whereby treating the inward-facing elements of easily cast or stamped materials using processes such as Physical Vapor Deposition, Chemical Vapor Deposition or metal plating, transforms them into an innermost member with superior hardness and durability, and whereby said wear surface member or deposited layer is physically supported by a middle composite layer made up of one or more investment castings designed to optimally transfer centrifugally-induced compression loads from the innermost wear surface toward the outer surface of the composite wall, such castings being of ceramic, metals or other materials, and whereby the outer surface of said composite wall is comprised of a filament-wound hoop strength reinforcement layer, using aramid, graphic, carbon or such fibers mixed and embedded in resin, such that all highly desirable characteristics for a centrifuge oute

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for the removal of solid contaminants which utilizes at least one rotating mesh screen container designed to pass the food therethrough while trapping the solid contaminant. The rotation of the cylindrically-shaped mesh screen causes the food to pass through because of the centrifugal force. The addition of a second mesh or membrane-like placed around the first screen but rotated in the opposite direction is also utilized to trap solid contaminants which are large enough to be trapped by the mesh screen when it is not oriented so as to pass through the screens along its length. Different spacings in mesh and different rotation velocities are utilized to change contaminant screen characteristics.

Abstract: A separation zone for separating platelets from a platelet-rich suspension establishes a relationship between its radial thickness (h) and axial height (Z) that, taking into account the given angular velocity of rotation and the given kinematic viscosity of the platelet-rich suspension introduced through the inlet, represents a (.lambda.) value that is less than 700,where ##EQU1## where: .OMEGA. is the angular velocity (in rad/sec);h is the radial depth (or thickness) of the chamber (in cm);.upsilon. is the kinematic viscosity of the fluid being separated (in cm.sup.2 /sec); andZ is the axial height of the chamber (in cm).

Abstract: A method of concentrating microorganisms, particularly pathogenic microorganisms, from food and/or water potentially contaminated by dilute densities of the organisms is described. Potentially contaminated water or fluid food is directed along an elongated flow path which rests generally within a plane perpendicular to an axis of rotation, and is subjected to centrifugal forces by rotating the flow path about the rotational axis. The method may be executed by use of a conventional continuous flow channel-type blood plasmapheresis centrifuge.

Abstract: The invention relates generally to a screen used for separating lubricants from solid materials, and more particularly, to a centrifugal parts separator having a screen which assists in separating lubricants from metal or other scrap materials. The screen of the present invention preferably comprises a cylindrical shaped member which can be formed in one or more component parts with a plurality of spaced fluid passage openings therein. The screen is made so that the ratio of the distance between the openings to the median width of the openings is at least 18/1, thereby providing increased surface wear area of the screen.

Abstract: An improved centrifuge bowl and related system is disclosed which is particularly apt for enhanced autologous blood salvage applications. The centrifuge bowl assembly includes a rotatable outer bowl, an internal spacer interconnected therewithin, and a stator assembly for introducing/removing fluid during rotation of the outer bowl and internal spacer. The outer bowl and internal spacer are configured to define a lateral passageway at the bottom of the assembly which terminates in an upward-facing port for fluid passage therethrough into an annular, cylindrical collection region. The annular port may be defined by a peripheral fin on the spacer and may be of a width that is less than the width of the cylindrical, annular collection region, wherein separated blood components (e.g. red blood cells) will accumulate across the width of the port during blood fill/wash cycles. As a result, enhanced washing is realized while maintaining throughput rates.

Abstract: A method for the removal of solid contaminants which utilizes two rotating mesh screen containers designed to pass the food therethrough while trapping the solid contaminant. The rotation of the first cylindrically-shaped mesh screen causes the food to pass through because of the centrifugal force leaving behind a portion of the solid contaminants. The second mesh or membrane-like placed around the first screen but rotated in the opposite direction is also utilized to trap solid contaminants which are large enough to be trapped by the mesh screen when it is not oriented so as to pass through the screens along its length. Different spacings in mesh and different rotation velocities are utilized to change contaminant screen characteristics.

Abstract: A centrifuge separation device is disclosed and includes a rotor configured to be connected to a centrifuge motor for rotation about an axis of rotation. A retainer is associated with the rotor and defines a passageway for a separation channel. A protrusion formed in one of the passageway walls extends towards and is spaced from the other of the passageway walls. The protrusion is sized to substantially block passage of materials in a predetermined density range and to substantially permit passage of materials outside of the predetermined density range. An indentation formed adjacent the protrusion in a wall of the passageway opposite the protrusion is configured to trap fluid during rotation of the rotor and to cooperate with the trapped fluid to maintain a substantially Coriolis-free pathway in a region of the passageway adjacent the protrusion.

Abstract: In a centrifugal apparatus for separating wetting material carried on particulate matter or chips, such apparatus includes a truncated conical shaped bowl into which the particulate matter or chips are deposited for centrifugal separation. A number of equidistantly spaced and radially aligned vanes are secured to the inner surface of the bowl adjacent the truncated end to collect incoming particulate matter or chips, and to establish a buffer layer, reducing the abrasion on the bowl caused by the insertion of further particulate matter or chips.

Abstract: A method of concentrating waterborne pathogenic organisms from water potentially contaminated by dilute densities of the organisms is described. Potentially contaminated water is directed along an elongated flow path which rests generally within a plane perpendicular to an axis of rotation, and is subjected to centrifugal forces by rotating the flow path about the rotational axis. The method may be executed by use of a conventional continuous flow channel-type blood plasmapheresis centrifuge. The method has been tested for its capability for recovering pathogenic protozoan parasites such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia from contaminated water, and recovery rates of up to 100% have been observed.

Abstract: The present invention is a centrifuge bowl housing and cover latch suitable for use in a blood separation system. The housing is mounted on shock absorbers to minimize transmission of vibrations from the centrifuge. The housing is configured to retain spilled liquids, efficiently collect the spilled liquids, drain liquids away from the drive means, and drain liquids out of a drain port to a collection container. The housing has a transparent cover that opens to allow loading of centrifuge bowls into the housing. The cover is a shatter resistant material and when closed, seals the top of the housing, retaining blood components and flying pieces of a centrifuge bowl if the bowl breaks. The cover has a latch that prevents the centrifuge from spinning when the cover is open and prevents opening of the cover when the centrifuge is spinning.

Abstract: A method of concentrating oocysts of waterborne protozoan parasites from water potentially contaminated by dilute densities of the parasites is described. Potentially contaminated water is fed into the separation channel of a continuous separation channel centrifuge. The water is centrifuged for a period of time sufficient to collect the parasitic oocysts and cysts in the channel.

Abstract: In the compression molding of a fixed angle centrifuge rotor utilizing discontinuous fibers, sample tube apertures cores present in the net-shape mold are covered with pre-cured sample tube aperture inserts. The sample tube aperture inserts have a constant and unchanging inside diameter and are formed from composite fiber. This composite fiber extends from the closed bottom of the inserts, upwardly along the sides of the inserts to the open top of the inserts to provide tensile strength longitudinally of the sample tube aperture inserts. The sample tube aperture inserts have a regular and smooth inside for first accommodating the sample tube aperture cores when the rotor is compression molded and later the sample tubes themselves when the rotor is fully fabricated. These inserts have an irregular outside for forming an interference fit with the subsequently formed compression molded rotor body.

Abstract: A separation zone for separating platelets from a platelet-rich suspension establishes a relationship between its radial thickness (h) and axial height (Z) that, taking into account the given angular velocity of rotation and the given kinematic viscosity of the platelet-rich suspension introduced through the inlet, represents a (.lambda.) value that is less than 700,where ##EQU1## where: .OMEGA. is the angular velocity (in rad/sec);h is the radial depth (or thickness) of the chamber (in cm);.nu. is the kinematic viscosity of the fluid being separated (in cm.sup.2 /sec); andZ is the axial height of the chamber (in cm).

Abstract: A centrifugal separator includes a chip bowl for receiving a fluid-particulate mix and delivering the mix onto the screening surface of a cylindrical separator screen disposed around the bowl. A canopy portion of the bowl overlaps the separator screen and is axially positionable therealong such that a variable length of the separator screen may extend beyond the forward edge of the bowl. A separator drive shaft has an axial bore for housing a bowl drive column and an adjusting rod. The bowl drive column is mounted to the separator drive shaft and adjusting rod such that axial movement of the adjusting rod causes axial movement of the bowl drive column but not the separator drive shaft and rotation of the separator drive shaft causes rotation of the bowl drive column but not the adjustment rod.

Abstract: A centrifugal soil separator for a dishwasher having a rotating centrifuge connected for rotation with a centrifugal impeller, the centrifugal impeller providing a majority of recirculating wash water for the dishwasher while the centrifuge accepts a second portion of flow and spins that portion of flow for soil separation and to achieve a pumping action to move that quantity of water to the wash water delivery system with the quantity of water moved by the centrifugal impeller. By a coordinated stopping, reversing and starting action of the centrifuge, soil collected therein can be disposed to a soil sizing and drain apparatus for flushing and draining the centrifuge.

Abstract: A centrifugal separator has a housing with a generally cylindrical inner surface defining an inner chamber. A hollow rotor is disposed within the chamber for rotation therein. At least one inlet is provided for introducing a liquid mixture into the annular volume between the rotor and the housing, where it is then directed into the rotor. An upper rotor assembly separates the liquid mixture by phase densities with the disparate components directed to respective outlets. In one embodiment of the invention, the upper rotor assembly includes an easily removable weir ring to facilitate "tuning" of the separation process. The rotor of the separator is mounted on a unitary rotor shaft that extends axially through the separation chamber to upper and lower bearing assemblies in the separator housing.

Abstract: A centrifuge includes an elastically supported centrifuge basket, a drive unit, and an endless drive arrangement, such as a drive belt arranged on a drive pulley of the drive unit and a driven pulley of the centrifuge basket support unit, for driving the centrifuge basket. A tension relieving device is provided for relieving or counteracting the tension forces of the endless drive arrangement. Thus the elastic supporting members of the centrifuge basket support unit are not stressed by the tension forces of the endless drive arrangement, and the tension relieving device can be pre-stressed so that the basket is in a neutral position during operation. For pre-stressing the tension relieving device, it includes an elastic thrust element, such as a compression spring packet, in addition to a length adjustable strut. To avoid tilting moments, the tension relieving device is arranged in a plane of the endless drive arrangement between the two pulleys.

Abstract: A method and a device for separating a component, such as fibrin monomer from blood, by centrifugation, involve feeding of blood admixed an anticoagulant to a first annular chamber in a device, where the annular chamber is defined by a cylindrical outer wall and a cylindrical inner wall, both walls extending coaxially about a common axis, as well as by a top wall and a bottom wall. The top wall or the bottom wall is formed by a piston body displaceable within the first chamber. This method involves furthermore a centrifugation of the device about the said common axis to substantially separate blood into a cell fraction and a plasma fraction followed by the resulting plasma fraction being transferred while influenced by the piston body to a second chamber defined by an outer cylindrical wall. The outer cylindrical wall extends coaxially with the said common axis, whereby a fraction with fibrin I is caused to be separated in the second chamber while a suitable enzyme is being added.

Abstract: A wringer bowl assembly is fabricated from a base plate, a top plate, and a plurality of side faces extending therebetween. The side faces extend through a single plane eliminating all need to work the side faces to create a bowl. Each of the side faces includes a an output hole which is where a fluid mixture is separated into its fluid and solid components. Screens extend across the output holes to prevent the solid component of the fluid mixture from passing therethrough. Face plates cover the side faces protecting the side faces from wear due to the movement of the solid component along the sides of the wringer bowl assembly. Each of the face plates includes at least one blade which aids the movement of the fluid mixture from the base plate to the output holes to be separated.

Abstract: In a horizontal centrifugal apparatus for separating wetting material carried on chips, such apparatus includes a conically shaped bowl carrying vanes distributed about its inner face with the midpoint of the length of said vane lying on a radius from the horizontal axis of bowl rotation such that the vane leading ends and trailing ends are about fifteen degrees of the radius at the midpoint of such vanes to impose an impediment to the rate of erosion on the vanes.

Abstract: An extracorporeal blood processing system is disclosed which includes a variety of novel components and which may be operated in accordance with a variety of novel methodologies. For instance, the system includes a graphical operator interface which directs the operator through various aspects of the apheresis procedure. Moreover, the system also includes a variety of features relating to loading a blood processing vessel into a blood processing channel and removing the same after completion of the procedure. Furthermore, the system also includes a variety of features relating to utilizing a blood priming of at least portions of the apheresis system in preparation for the procedure. In addition, the system includes a variety of features enhancing the performance of the apheresis system, including the interrelationship between the blood processing vessel and the blood processing vessel and the utilization of high packing factors for the procedure.

Abstract: An extracorpeal blood processing system is disclosed which includes a variety of novel components and which may be operated in accordance with a variety of novel methodologies. For instance, the system includes a graphical operator interface which directs the operator through various aspects of the apheresis procedure. Moreover, the system also includes a variety of features relating to loading a blood processing vessel into a blood processing channel and removing the same after completion of the procedure. Furthermore, the system also includes a variety of features relating to utilizing a blood priming of at least portions of the apheresis system in preparation for the procedure. In addition, the system includes a variety of features enhancing the performance of the apheresis system, including the interrelationship between the blood processing vessel and the blood processing vessel and the utilization of high packing factors for the procedure.

Abstract: A centrifuge comprising a yoke element that rotates about a rotational axis and a processing chamber having an axis. The processing chamber includes a bowl element, a spool element, and a mechanism for joining the spool and bowl elements for relative movement between a mutually cooperating position for centrifugal processing and a mutually separated position for loading. A hinge attaches the processing chamber to the yoke element for pivotal movement between an operating position and an access position. In the operating position, the spool and bowl elements are in their mutually cooperating position and oriented for rotation with the yoke element about the rotational axis. In the access position, the processing chamber axis lies outside the axis of rotation and the spool and bowl elements are oriented for movement from their mutually cooperating position into their mutually separated position.

Abstract: Systems and methods for separating blood rotate a separation chamber about a rotational axis to create within the chamber a low-G wall radially close to the axis and a high-G wall spaced radially further from the axis than the low-G wall. The systems and methods introduce whole blood into an inlet region of the chamber during its rotation through a reduced passage. The reduced passage restricts whole blood flow, thereby causing more uniform perfusion of whole blood in the inlet. Separation of red blood cells begins within the inlet region toward the high-G wall. This creates a flow of plasma that moves within the inlet region radially toward the low-G wall and elutes platelets into suspension. The systems and methods direct the radial flow of plasma and eluted platelets to an outlet in the inlet region for transport from the chamber.

Abstract: A chamber for rotation about a rotational axis to separate blood components includes first and second spaced apart side walls forming a separation zone. Blood conveyed into the separation zone separates into a first region of cellular components, a second region of plasma, and an interface region between the first and second regions. An outlet conveys the second region of plasma from the separation zone. An interior wall extends into the separation zone to permit passage of the second region of plasma to the outlet while retarding passage of the interface region and the first region of cellular components to the outlet. The tapered second surface has a major axis that is oriented at a non-parallel angle with respect to the axis of the outlet. Due to this orientation, the boundary between the interface region and the other two regions is held uniform along the tapered surface.

Abstract: Blood processing systems and methods create dynamic vortex flow conditions within the processing chamber by conveying blood into a separation path that extends circumferentially about the rotational axis along an entry path that extends generally parallel to the rotational axis. The vortex flow conditions perfuse blood into the separation path for separation into component parts. The systems and methods confine the vortex flow pattern along the entry path by reducing the radial width of the entry path.

Abstract: A high efficiency centrifuge rotor for rapid separation of particles suspended in a liquid is disclosed. The rotor features one or more cavities disposed at a compound angle to provide for rapid separation of particles suspended in a liquid while minimizing distortion of the separation interface or separation barrier, if any, within the sample container.

Abstract: A centrifugal separator has a housing with a generally cylindrical inner surface defining an inner chamber. A hollow rotor is disposed within the chamber for rotation therein. At least one inlet is provided for introducing a liquid mixture into the annular volume between the rotor and the housing, where it is then directed into the rotor. An upper rotor assembly separates the liquid mixture by phase densities with the disparate components directed to respective outlets. In one embodiment of the invention, the upper rotor assembly includes an easily removable weir ring to facilitate "tuning" of the separation process. The rotor of the separator is mounted on a unitary rotor shaft that extends axially through the separation chamber to upper and lower bearing assemblies in the separator housing.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a novel rotor design employed in a centrifuge for use in separating fluids. The rotor is configured with a separation chamber which comprises a plurality of channels extending axially and radially throughout the separation chamber. Radial plates extending axially and radially throughout the separation chamber at least partially define the channels. A first and a second weir, each having a front face and a crest extending substantially annularly about the axis of rotation, are also included in the rotor. A fluid outlet passageway is also provided through which the second fluid may exit the separation chamber. The fluid outlet passageway comprises a plurality of channels configured to permit radially inward flow and prevent circumferential flow of the second fluid. These channels are at least partially defined by radial partitions which extend axially and radially within the fluid outlet passageway.

Abstract: Systems and methods for separating a suspension of plasma and platelets from whole blood rotate a chamber about an axis to create within the chamber a low-G zone radially close to the axis and a high-G zone spaced radially further from the axis than the low-G zone. The systems and methods introduce whole blood into an inlet region of the chamber to initiate separation of red blood cells toward the high-G zone of the inlet region. This creates a strong flow of plasma that moves radially toward the low-G zone of the inlet region and elutes platelets into suspension with it. The systems and methods direct the radial flow of plasma and eluted platelets within the inlet region to a port in the inlet region for transport out of the chamber. The systems and methods also drag the interface into this radial plasma flow, eluting even the largest of platelets into suspension for collection.

Abstract: A centrifuge provides simplify access to the processing chamber. In one arrangement, the processing chamber separates into a bowl and spool element to receive a disposable processing bag. In another arrangement, the processing chamber pivots between an operating position and an access position to provide improved access. The centrifuge also employs readily accessible holders for releasably retaining tubing that, in use, conveys fluid to and from the chamber. Though greatly accessible, the centrifuge operates without the need of complicated rotating seals and expensive disposable components.

Abstract: A process for the removal of dispersed contaminants less dense than water from pulp and paper mill process liquids, comprises passing the liquid through a centrifuge and collecting the contaminants as a less dense fraction. The application of this invention to paper industry process liquids provides a means of removing a significant fraction of the wood resin and wood resin soaps from the process stream, thus enabling (1) a greater extent of reuse of filtrates and, hence, less effluents from mills, and (2) fewer problems from wood resin, such as deposit formation, loss of strength of product, and contamination of product with dirt particles.

Abstract: A separator for separating a first fluid from a second fluid through rotation about an axis of rotation, the first fluid having a density less than the density of the second fluid. In one embodiment, the separator includes a separation chamber mounted for rotation about the axis of rotation. A first weir is positioned in fluid communication with the separation chamber. A second weir is positioned over which the second fluid may pass to exit the separation chamber through a collection chamber. A fluid pressure chamber is positioned radially outwardly from the crest of the second weir to receive the second fluid as it passes over the second weir. The fluid pressure chamber is partially defined by an exit weir over which the second fluid may pass.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for centrifugally separating a mixture of liquids comprises a central inlet shaft, a surrounding rotor, and a housing shell. The mixture is injected into the rotor through the inlet shaft and the rotor separates the mixture in a radially sloped separation space containing a first weir, discharges the lighter liquid into the housing through a channel through the weir and wall of the separation chamber, and discharges the heavier liquid into the housing over a second weir. The inlet shaft may be built up to provide for efficient shear mixing and a sieve may be provided in the separation chamber. A two-stage separator may be constructed by providing a second separation chamber radially outward of the first after mixing of a separated liquid with a solvent and providing suitable discharge ports.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the continuous conditioning of a cell suspension, more particularly whole blood, in order to obtain an erythrocyte concentrate which is returned to the patient by autotransfusion. In accordance with the invention there are three treatment stages, that is to say sedimentation of the cell suspension, the addition of washing solution to the cell concentrate and renewed sedimentation and separation of the washing solution.

Abstract: An improved centrifuge rotor formed of a bowl body and core for blood processing applications, such as cell washing or pheresis, is described. A tubular core adapted to rotate with the rotor defines a processing region between the core and the interior of the bowl body. A plurality of projections extend into the processing region to minimize formation of fluid Coriolis waves which would otherwise cause undesirable turbulence.

Abstract: A separator for separating a first fluid from a second fluid through rotation about an axis of rotation, the first fluid having a density less than the density of the second fluid. In one embodiment, the separator includes a separation chamber mounted for rotation about the axis of rotation. A first weir is positioned in fluid communication with the separation chamber. A second weir is positioned over which the second fluid may pass to exit the separation chamber through a collection chamber. A fluid pressure chamber is positioned radially outwardly from the crest of the second weir to receive the second fluid as it passes over the second weir. The fluid pressure chamber is partially defined by an exit weir over which the second fluid may pass.

Abstract: A liner or wrap for use in the scroll or discharge housing of a centrifugal separator device. The wrap comprises a one-piece, elongated strip of material which is releasably secured to the interior wall which is replaceable in the event of excessive wear. The wrap is compressible and can be placed into the separator device without having to remove the blade assemblies. The releasable wrap is seated against the discharge housing wall contiguous to blades which are rotatable in the discharge housing.

Abstract: A centrifuge vessel (10) for performing automated immunoassays is disclosed. The centrifuge vessel (10) comprises a center tube (11) and an outer waste chamber (15). A biomaterial (18) is held within the center tube (11) and is capable of binding specific analytes in test samples. In operation, the centrifuge vessel (10) is rotated at high speed about its longitudinal axis, thereby causing all fluid within the center tube (11) to be transported into the outer waste chamber (15) while the analyte of interest remains bound to the biomaterial (18) positioned within the center tube (11).

Abstract: An indexable separator screen for use with a rotatable centrifugal separator device in which the screen is adapted to be moved relative to the bowl so that one or more wear areas on the screen can be moved from at least a first position to a second position relative to the bowl.

Abstract: Multi-Stage centrifugal extractors for separating two liquids of differing densities wherein each stage includes a decantation chamber which surrounds and receives liquids from a mixing chamber and wherein a portion of at least one of the separated liquids is recycled from the decantation chamber to the mixing chamber at each stage.

Abstract: A liner or wrap for use in the scroll or discharge housing of a centrifugal separator device. The wrap comprises a one-piece, elongated strip of material which is releasably secured to the interior wall which is replaceable in the event of excessive wear. The wrap is compressible and can be placed into the separator device without having to remove the blade assemblies. The releasable wrap is seated against the discharge housing wall contiguous to blades which are rotatable in the discharge housing.

Abstract: Fractionation apparatus (20) is disclosed which utilizes a rapidly rotating disk which receives a liquid suspension of particles to be separated onto its rotating face surface (35). When the film of liquid and particles on the rotating face surface (35) reaches the peripheral edge (38) of the face, particles having sufficient kinetic energy to overcome surface forces (e.g., above a certain size) are radially ejected while particles with less kinetic energy (e.g., smaller particles) and the liquid are carried over the edge onto the surface of a depending rim (39). The suspension of smaller particles and liquid is carried down the rim to the rim edge (40) at which point the smaller particles and liquid are disengaged. A separator wall (27) may be interposed between the two streams of particles emanating from the disk (24) to provide a physical separation of the larger and smaller particles once they have left the disk.

Abstract: A centrifugal oil filter comprises a bowl which is rotatable about a vertical axis within a fixed casing and which is open at its upper and lower ends, the inner wall of the bowl being provided with grooves which trap particles in the polluted oil fed into the bowl as the bowl is rotated and the oil flows upwards along the wall under centrifugal action and which allow the particles to fall therefrom under gravity to a particle collector positioned below the open lower end of the bowl when the bowl stops rotating. The inner wall of the bowl is also formed with an annular recess above the particle trapping grooves. This recess fills with oil when the bowl is rotated, and this oil flows out and downwards along the wall under gravity when the bowl stops, thereby cleaning the filter wall.

Abstract: The device for separating plasma from a sample of whole blood by centrifuging comprises:a distributor-divider disposed centrally and provided with n compartments communicating with a sample-receiving well and communicating with one another via notches;a ring separator including n receptacles communicating with the n compartments and with n outer cells and terminating in an open funnel; anda removable plasma collector fitted onto said funnel.

Abstract: An analytical rotor for separating cellular components from a biological fluid includes a separation chamber spaced radially outward from a sample chamber. The sample chamber may be an open receptacle disposed to receive sample or may be a mixing chamber which receives sample and diluent. A flow restrictive channel connects the sample chamber to the separation chamber so that fluid enters the separation chamber at a controlled rate. The cellular components collect within a retention region located generally at the outer periphery of the collection chamber while cell-free fluid is continuously removed through a collection port. The collection port is spaced annularly apart from the flow channel so that there is sufficient residence time within the separation chamber for substantially complete separation of the cells from the fluid fraction.

Abstract: A separator bowl and blade assembly for a centrifugal separator device in which a rotatable separator bowl has a plurality of recesses therein and a blade assembly or blank is adapted to be releasably disposed in the recesses. The blade assembly includes a pad having a structural configuration which corresponds and mates with the bowl recess. A blade extends outwardly from the pad and is connected to a bottom pad portion and an outwardly extending pad portion with the blade assembly being either an integral or releasably connected assembly.