Abstract: A rotating drum pressure differential filter is provided whereby a layer of filter medium is continuously refreshed by a spray applicator device after the layer is utilized to filter components sample medium and a portion of the layer is subsequently scraped to remove sample medium waste from the layer. Methods of filtration using the device are also provided as are systems employing two or more such filters. A spray applicator device useful for refreshing a filter medium on the outer surface of a rotating drum pressure differential filter is also provided as is a retro fit kit useful in modifying existing rotating drum pressure differential filters to enable the continuous formation of a refreshed filter medium layer. The continuously refreshed filter and filter systems provide a minimized down time of the filter and system operations. Multiple-stage filtration processes are also provided and are particularly in the recovery of enzymes from fermentation broths.

Abstract: A fluid bed processing system with a spraying apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention includes an expansion chamber and at least one spraying apparatus which extends into the expansion chamber. The spraying apparatus has a plurality of single nozzles which are spaced along the spraying apparatus and has at least one fluid passage connected to each of the single nozzles.

Abstract: A fluidized bed coating apparatus is provided and includes a fluid inlet adapted to be connected to a source of fluidizing fluid. The fluid inlet has an entrance opening having a first diameter and an exit opening downstream of the entrance opening. The exit opening has a second diameter that is larger than the first diameter. The inlet also includes an expanding inlet section, between the entrance opening and the exit opening, that has an average diameter that increases in a direction from said entrance opening to said exit opening. A fluid distribution plate is provided adjacent the exit opening and includes a plurality of through-passages to allow the even and distributed passage of a fluidizing fluid therethrough. A chamber having a chamber inlet and a chamber outlet is provided and the fluid distribution plate is positioned between the exit opening and the chamber inlet.

Abstract: A fluid bed processing system with a spraying apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention includes an expansion chamber and at least one spraying apparatus which extends into the expansion chamber. The spraying apparatus has a plurality of single nozzles which are spaced along the spraying apparatus and has at least one fluid passage connected to each of the single nozzles.

Abstract: A fluid bed processing system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention includes a product chamber, a fluid supply system, and a discharge gate. The product chamber has an open top and an open bottom and the fluid supply system has an outlet positioned to direct a first fluid into the product chamber. The outlet of the fluid supply system is spaced from the open bottom of the product chamber to define a discharge opening which extends substantially around the open bottom of the product chamber and the outlet of the fluid supply system. The discharge gate is movable to a first position covering the discharge opening and to a second position exposing the discharge opening.