Abstract: A cone frustum is provided for a centrifugal separator to shield the area of the separator's screen at the top of the flight assembly from the initial impact of the material which is introduced into the separator. The cone frustum is spaced above the flight assembly and below the inlet to shield the portion of the screen that is at the top of the flight assembly. The cone frustum is spaced radially inwardly from the screen and outwardly from the outlet. The cone frustum shields the part of the screen which wears most quickly to extend the life of the separator's screen assembly. The cone frustum is partially perforated to allow for initial dewatering of the material introduced into the separator. The slope of the cone frustum is equal to or less than the slope of the screen of the separator.