Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved apparatus and method for assembly for a cylindrical split-flow thin separation channel that is capable of continuously separating particles of interest from a suspension flowing through the channel. The apparatus provides better precision in the separation process by providing better flow characteristics at the inlet, outlet, and in the zone of separation. Splitter surfaces are provided that match the calculated theoretical Inlet Splitter Surface (ISS) and Outlet Splitter Surface (OSS). A flow distributor diverts the inlet carrier flow into a stable, circumferentially uniform, laminar annular flow. The design enables manufacturing and assembly methods to ensure precise alignment of the components to further improve the flow profiles within the separation channel and to ensure repeatability device-to-device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved apparatus and method for assembly for a cylindrical split-flow thin separation channel that is capable of continuously separating particles of interest from a suspension flowing through the channel. The apparatus provides better precision in the separation process by providing better flow characteristics at the inlet, outlet, and in the zone of separation. Splitter surfaces are provided that match the calculated theoretical Inlet Splitter Surface (ISS) and Outlet Splitter Surface (OSS). A flow distributor diverts the inlet carrier flow into a stable, circumferentially uniform, laminar annular flow. The design enables manufacturing and assembly methods to ensure precise alignment of the components to further improve the flow profiles within the separation channel and to ensure repeatability device-to-device.

Abstract: A multistage electromagnetic separator is designed to separate magnetically susceptible materials suspended in fluids. The apparatus includes an upper plate and a lower plate set to a fill position and the fluid samples are filled into upper and lower cuvettes. The upper cuvette rotates into position above the lower cuvette aligning the upper and lower cuvettes. A translating electromagnet energizes to a programmed current level and translates from the bottom of the lower cuvette to the interface of the plates. The translating electromagnet is de-energized, and a holding electromagnet is energized to a programmed current level pulling particles within a specified mobility range into the top of the captured upper collection cuvette. The holding electromagnet is de-energized leaving the permanent holding magnet to keep the collected sample particles in the top cuvette while the upper plate rotates thereby capturing the sample of the collected particles.