Abstract: Apparatus for separating lighter particles from tobacco particles contained in threshed leaf tobacco includes a plurality of tobacco particle separating units, each including a separation chamber and having a fan system for establishing a generally upward air flow therein. A tobacco particle projecting mechanism is provided in each chamber for projecting, in cooperation with additional air flow provided at the projecting side of the separation chamber, tobacco particles across the upward air flow therein with each having structure for directing tobacco particles in cooperating relation therewith to be projected thereby. Mechanisms receive the lighter particles carried upwardly by the air flow, the heavier particles moving downwardly within each chamber and discharge the particles therefrom.