Abstract: A vertical centrifugal separator, for example of the type used to dry coal, is improved by splitting the frustoconical screen into two pieces and including access doors in the water shield surrounding the screen. The division of the screen is made horizontally, for example at a level of about 30 to 70 percent down from the top of the screen. This permits the separator to be serviced in a relatively short time, by replacing only the upper partial screen when holes are worn in it. This is feasible because most of the wear in these screens is confined to about the upper 30 percent of their height. If a screen support basket is used, it can be confine to the lower partial screen, so that it does not have to be removed in order to replace the upper partial screen.