Grading Deposition Patents (Class 209/142)
  • Patent number: 10889462
    Abstract: A cable reel includes an outer frame and a reel assembly. The reel assembly is installed on the outer frame. The reel assembly includes a left reel and a right reel. An inner bracket is arranged in the outer frame. The inner bracket includes a left bracket and a right bracket which are respectively connected with the left reel and the right reel. A telescopic cylinder for controlling the swing is arranged between the left bracket and the right bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Inventor: Qingling Chai
  • Patent number: 8915373
    Abstract: A solid particle flow distribution controller includes an extension skirt configured to be mounted to a discharge skirt at a division between an upstream solid particle conveyance pipe and a plurality of downstream pipes. The extension skirt includes a plurality of circumferential segments. Each segment is movably mounted to the discharge skirt for movement in an upstream and downstream direction with respect to the discharge skirt. The segments of the extension skirt are configured and adapted for motion in the upstream and downstream direction independent of one another to extend upstream of the discharge skirt as needed to improve solid particle distribution among the downstream pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Babcock Power Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Qingsheng Lin, Joseph Bianca, Jilin Zhang, William Freeman, John W Rath, III
  • Patent number: 8875897
    Abstract: An apparatus for processing a sample including fibers and trash, having a cylinder rotating in a first direction for receiving the sample. The cylinder has a surface with rigid pins. The pins engage and retain the fibers of the sample. A collection surface receives the trash that falls from the cylinder. A counter-flow of air moves in a separation region between the cylinder and the collection surface in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to and towards the underside of the cylinder. The counter-flow of air has at each position within the separation region an air-flow velocity that is sufficient for the counter-flow of air to blow the fibers that are not originally retained by the pins up toward the cylinder and thereby engaging the fibers with the cylinder, and yet insufficient to prevent gravity from pulling the trash downward through the counter-flow of air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Uster Technologies AG
    Inventors: Youe-Tsyr Chu, Johnathan W. Craps, Weichang Zhao, Michael E. Galyon, Hossein M. Ghorashi
  • Patent number: 8807054
    Abstract: The invention is related to a system (1) for converting fuel material comprising: a first reactor (2) in which a fuel material reacts with an oxide material for producing reaction products including fuel particles, ash and oxide particles, a second reactor (3) for oxidizing the oxide particles produced in the first reactor (2), a carbon separator (4) that receives fuel particles, ash and oxide particles produced in the first reactor (2) and suitable for separating the oxide particles and ash from the fuel particles, the carbon separator (4) comprising an outlet path (4c) for the oxide particles and ash exhaust, characterized in that said outlet path (4c) of the carbon separator (4) is connected to an ash separator (10) for separating the ash from the oxide particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: ALSTOM Technology Ltd
    Inventors: Corinne Beal, Laurent Maghdissian, Michel Vandycke
  • Patent number: 8770411
    Abstract: A method for the separation of fine particles from granulate-like bulk material conveyed in a pipeline as a product flow by means of a compressed air or vacuum conveyance, characterized in that the product flow is radially dispersed at the intake end of a pipe screen integrated in the pipeline in an airtight manner, and aerated there by a cleansing airflow, flowing at an angle to the direction of the dispersed product flow, in the region of a cleansing plane, which deflects the lighter particles, fibers, clusters, dust or similar items carried in the product flow from the trajectory of the heavier granulate, and conveys said into an annular sheath through which the cleansing air flows, from which they are removed by means of a separator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Zeppelin Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Guido Winkhardt, Michael Heep
  • Patent number: 8714359
    Abstract: [Problem] To provide a rotating classifier which can keep classification performance high and which can prevent blockages caused by biomass and the like. [Means for Resolution] The rotating classifier is characterized in that: comb teeth-like protrusion portions protruding toward a fixed member side are provided on top of rotary classification fins at intervals along the circumferential direction of the rotating classifier fins; a first gap is provided between an upper end portion of each of the comb teeth-like protrusion portions and a lower surface of the fixed member; a second gap formed between a protrusion portion and a protrusion portion adjacent to the protrusion portion is connected to the first gap; and an air stream flowing from the radial outside to the radial inside of the comb teeth-like protrusion portions through the first gap and the second gap is formed due to the rotation of the rotary classification fins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Babcock-Hitachi Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takashi Aizawa, Akira Baba, Yuki Kondo, Yutaka Takeno, Shinichiro Nomura
  • Patent number: 8596462
    Abstract: A separator is disclosed for separating particles of at least first and second mass/size ranges from an ambient fluid (e.g. gaseous) medium in which they are present, particles of the first range being of generally larger size/mass than particles of the second range. The separator is especially designed for use in an air monitoring device which is designed for rapid detection of micro-organisms such as bacteria, viruses, pathogens and the like, and is designed to be portable so that it can be readily and rapidly deployed in both civilian and military environments and can be used indoors and outdoors; it can also be designed for personal use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: BAE Systems PLC
    Inventors: Alexander Roy Parfitt, Ian Michael Sturland, Clyde Warsop, Paul James Dawson
  • Publication number: 20130284644
    Abstract: A method for classifying a ground material-fluid mixture and a mill classifier. In order to improve the grinding and classification process, the subsequent dust separation and in particular to optimise the energy situation of a grinding plant, it is provided according to the invention that the fine material-fluid flow leaving the dynamic classifier part with angular momentum, besides a swirl reduction or swirl elimination, with the aid of a guiding apparatus and a displacement body, is made uniform in a classifier outlet housing and deflected into a virtually linear flow. The fixed guiding apparatus arranged coaxially with the classifier axis in the classifier outlet housing and the displacement body can be formed as one unit and the guide elements of the guiding apparatus can be arranged on the displacement body and extending into the vicinity of the inner wall of the classifier outlet housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventors: André BAETZ, Michael KEYSSNER
  • Patent number: 8511475
    Abstract: A plate type rotational centrifugal separator for separating one or more components of a feed stream includes a rotatable first outer carrier and a rotatable second inner carrier coaxially arranged in the first outer carrier. The first outer carrier supports one or more curved plates which are flexibly connected to the second inner carrier. A feeding arrangement disposed at one end of the separator supplies a feed stream to be separated, and a discharging arrangement disposed at the opposite end of the separator discharges separated streams. Confined spaces are defined between adjacent curved plates and the first outer and second inner carrier for separating the feed stream under influence of centrifugal forces. The first outer carrier is axially removable from the second inner carrier for removing components collected on the plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Evodos B.V.
    Inventor: Hendrik Arie Boele
  • Patent number: 8453846
    Abstract: A method for classifying a ground material-fluid mixture and a mill classifier improve the grinding and classification process, wherein a fine material-fluid flow leaving a dynamic classifier part with angular momentum is subjected to a swirl reduction or swirl elimination, with the aid of a guiding apparatus and a displacement body and is made uniform in a classifier outlet housing and deflected into a virtually linear flow. The fixed guiding apparatus arranged coaxially with the classifier axis in the classifier outlet housing and the displacement body may be formed as one unit, and the guide elements of the guiding apparatus may be arranged on the displacement body and extending into the vicinity of the inner wall of the classifier outlet housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: LOESCHE GmbH
    Inventors: Andre′ Baetz, Michael Keyssner
  • Publication number: 20130118957
    Abstract: The object of the invention is a chemical-looping combustion device utilizing a solid fuel generating unburnt particles and using oxygen-carrying particles such as metallic oxides, and comprising at least one combustion zone and a separator for the particles contained in a gaseous mixture coming from the combustion zone, wherein the separator comprises at least one enclosure (1) with an intake line (4) for said mixture, a discharge line (5) arranged in the lower part of the enclosure and an outlet line (6) arranged in the upper part of the device, the intake and discharge/outlet parameters being so selected as to create in the enclosure a dense phase in the lower part and a dilute phase in the upper part, and wherein said intake line opens into the dilute phase. The invention also relates to a combustion method implementing the device according to the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Inventors: Ali Hoteit, Florent Guillou, Sébastien Rifflart, Thierry Gauthier
  • Patent number: 8307987
    Abstract: A separation system includes an air separator that, in one embodiment, primarily receives Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) containing a mixture of relatively light MSW recyclable materials such as plastic, paper, cardboard, plastic containers, and/or metal containers and relatively heavy MSW such as textiles, food waste, yard debris, etc. The air separator blows the relatively light MSW recyclable materials up though a chamber and onto a first conveyor while the other relatively heavy MSW material drops down a chute onto a second conveyor. A separation screen receives the relatively light MSW recyclable materials from the air separator and separates the relatively flat fiber and plastic film materials from the other paper, plastic and metal containers. In another separation stage, an electrostatic emitter is positioned adjacent to a conveyor for applying an electrostatic charge to faciliate separation of the MSW recyclable materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Emerging Acquisitions, LLC
    Inventors: Steve Miller, Roy Miller, Dane Campbell
  • Patent number: 8215489
    Abstract: The present application provides apparatuses and methods for the size-selective fractionation of ligand-capped nanoparticles that utilizes the tunable thermophysical properties of gas-expanded liquids. The nanoparticle size separation processes are based on the controlled reduction of the solvent strength of an organic phase nanoparticle dispersion through increases in concentration of the antisolvent gas, such as CO2, via pressurization. The method of nanomaterial separation contains preparing a vessel having a solvent and dispersed nanoparticles, pressurizing the chamber with a gaseous antisolvent, and causing a first amount of the nanoparticles to precipitate, transporting the solution to a second vessel, pressurizing the second vessel with the gaseous antisolvent and causing further nanoparticles to separate from the solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Auburn University
    Inventors: Christopher B. Roberts, Steven R. Saunders
  • Publication number: 20120111771
    Abstract: A grading and collection device includes axial hollow body and suction unit, the hollow body has a first opening and a second opening defined in two ends thereof. The suction unit includes multiple hollow tubes with different inner diameters. The first ends of the hollow pipes located toward the first opening of the hollow body and the second ends of the hollow pipes extend through the second opening of the hollow body. Suction device is connected to each of the second ends of the hollow tubes. The particles of different sizes are sucked into the hollow pipes of different inner diameters. The grading and collection device is compact and efficient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: JIAN CHANG APPLIED MATERIALS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: CHUEH-KUAN WANG
  • Patent number: 8172087
    Abstract: Disclosed is a separation apparatus comprising a conveyor; and a material separator positioned above a conveyor, the conveyor being arranged to convey a mixture of materials to the material separator; the material separator comprising a suction duct comprising a sidewall which defines a passageway linking an inlet positioned adjacent the conveyor to an outlet positioned away from the conveyor; and an airflow generator arranged to blow air through a slit in the sidewall into the passageway at a position between the inlet and the outlet; wherein, in use, the airflow generator blows air through the slit in a direction which is towards the outlet for creating a pressure difference between the inlet and the outlet thereby generating an airflow which causes relatively low density materials to be lifted from the conveyor and sucked into the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Tek-Dry Systems Limited
    Inventor: Thomas Fryars
  • Patent number: 8118170
    Abstract: Particulates called nanoparticles (principally having a diameter of 10 nm or less) are reliably and easily according to size with high throughput. An impactor includes a particulate size classifying chamber provided with an exhaust port for particulates, a nozzle ejecting to the inside of the particulate size classifying chamber a carrier gas containing particulates to be classified, and a trapping plate as particulate trapping unit provided in the particulate size classifying chamber and selectively trapping particulates ejected from the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventor: Shintaro Sato
  • Patent number: 8104362
    Abstract: An inline virtual impactor comprising an outer housing having a housing inlet, a housing inner surface, a major flow outlet and a minor flow outlet; a flow accelerator member disposed in the upstream portion of the outer housing; and a flow stabilizer member disposed within the outer housing downstream of the flow accelerator member, wherein the disposition of the flow accelerator creates an annular flow passage between the flow accelerator and the outer housing, and wherein a flow divider that is at least partially downstream of the flow stabilizer member effects splitting of the flow stream entering the housing into major and minor flows. The minor flow comprises primarily particles having a size greater than a cutpoint size and the major flow comprises primarily particles smaller than the cutpoint size. The inline virtual impactor may further comprise an aspiration section located upstream of the flow accelerator member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Texas A&M University System
    Inventors: Andrew R. McFarland, Satyanarayanan Seshadri
  • Patent number: 8100269
    Abstract: The powder classifying device classifies powder having a particle size distribution and collects the classified powder. The device includes a disc-like cavity to which the powder is supplied and where the supplied powder is classified, a powder supply port for supplying the powder to the cavity, guide vanes arranged so as to extend from an outer periphery of the cavity in an inner direction at a predetermined angle, a discharge unit for air streams including fine particles discharged from the cavity, a collection unit for coarse particles discharged from the cavity and air nozzles arranged below the guide vanes on an outer peripheral wall of the cavity along a tangential direction of the outer peripheral wall and blow compressed air into an inside of the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Nisshin Seifun Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenji Taketomi, Kazumi Kozawa, Masaru Kyugo
  • Publication number: 20120012687
    Abstract: An axial classifier, for separating the coarse particles from a fluid flow having both coarse and fine particles, comprising a housing forming a first chamber for the fluid flow to enter the classifier, a vane assembly provided within the housing, wherein the vane assembly includes a plurality of blades aligned around a flow diverter, a cone member forming a second chamber for the fluid flow to pass therein, wherein the cone member includes an opening for the coarse particles separated from the fluid flow to pass therethrough, and an outlet for the particles remaining in the fluid flow after separation of the coarse particles to exit the classifier, wherein the plurality of blades of the vane assembly abut an outer surface of the flow diverter to direct the fluid flow from the first chamber into the second chamber in a manner that congregates the coarse particles for classification.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventor: Scott Vierstra
  • Patent number: 8083070
    Abstract: In a screening device for sorting granular material with at least one rotatable rod basket and a downstream fine material separator a cyclone-type eddy separator is attached with the smaller diameter of its housing cone in order to draw off the screening gas flow charged with fine material and flowing out due to twisting energy in such a way that the rod basket screening device and the separator form a compact unit. A submerged pipe is located in the center of the cyclone-type eddy separator for drawing off the screening gas flow freed of fine material. At least one opening is provided for discharging the fine material at the periphery of the eddy separator housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: KHD Humboldt Wedag GmbH
    Inventors: Siegfried Strasser, Albert Süβegger
  • Patent number: 8033399
    Abstract: Disclosed is a centrifugal separator with an inlet channel for a flow containing coarse and fine particles, a first outlet channel for a flow containing predominantly coarse particles, a second outlet channel for a flow containing predominantly fine particles and a separator chamber with at least one separator device, wherein the separator chamber connects the inlet channel to the first outlet channel and the second outlet channel, and wherein the inlet channel, the separator channel and the two outlet channels form a flow path. To improve the degree of efficiency, as a first separator device, one or more separator pockets are arranged in the separator chamber, which project into the flow path. Also disclosed is a corresponding method for the separation of a flow containing coarse and fine particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Babcock Borsig Service GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Pistorius, Christian Storm
  • Patent number: 7987993
    Abstract: A separator of solids for separating first and second solids, the diameter and density of the first solids being larger than the diameter and density of the second solids. A first substantially vertical internal baffle (2) forms a passage in the low portion of the separator and forms two compartments (1A, 1B) on the passage of the fluidized solids. The fluidization of each compartment is independently controlled by two fluidization gas inlets (3A, 3B) in order to obtain the desired velocity field for separating the first and second solids in the first compartment (1A) and discharging the second solids through a vent (8), as well as for transferring the first solids into the second compartment (1B).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Alstom Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Jean-Xavier Morin, Corinne Beal, Silvestre Suraniti
  • Patent number: 7971725
    Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of apparatus for sorting particles in a fluid stream by size. In one embodiment of an apparatus for sorting such particles, a housing is provided, which defines a channel for a fluid stream containing particles. A suction channel is also provided, which terminates at a suction port. The suction port is positioned adjacent to the fluid stream. The suction channel may be configured to create a low pressure region and thereby redirect particles in the first fluid stream such that they may be sorted by size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Utah State University
    Inventors: Barton L. Smith, Zachary Earl Humes
  • Patent number: 7900777
    Abstract: A compact housing for a dedusting apparatus utilizes a magnetic flux field to disrupt the static charge attracting dust particles to product particles, which along with fluidization and counter current airflow principles that are proven to dislodge dust particles from the product, provides a highly efficient, compact deduster. The housing supports a double wash deck with product flow separated between the back-to-back primary wash decks. A deflector directing the flow of product onto the primary wash decks is provided with an extension that extends parallel to the wash deck to eliminated product bouncing off of the wash deck. The lower air outlets are eliminated, while the upper air outlets are positioned in extensions to the main housing above the product inlet opening. Air flow through the Venturi zones is enhanced by directing clean air through slots formed in the lower deck members into the Venturi zones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Pelletron Corporation
    Inventors: Heinz Schneider, Paul Wagner
  • Publication number: 20110024334
    Abstract: An air classification device for separation of solids comprising an input system, a first solid separator system, an output system, and an emission containing system. The emission containing system employs supplemental air lines, a supplemental air source, and high-velocity air knives to create negative air pressure at any opening in the device. The negative air pressure induces air to move into the device and prevents polluted air from escaping the device at the openings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Applicant: MAC Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael D. Althouse
  • Publication number: 20100294863
    Abstract: Method for manufacturing fine mineral powders using systems, consisting of one or more air classifier, dust separators like cyclones and/or filters, at least one ventilator as well as these instruments connecting tubes or pipes for the transport of air. The invention is characterised by keeping the relative humidity of the classifier air in the air classifier in a range between 15% to 35%.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventors: Ulrich Schindler, Christoph Bauer, Giselbert Bauer, Annemarie Bauer
  • Patent number: 7810646
    Abstract: A separation system includes an air separator that in one embodiment primarily receives Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) containing relatively light MSW recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, plastic containers, and/or metal containers. The air separator blows the relatively light MSW recyclable materials up though a chamber and onto a first conveyer while the other relatively heavy MSW material drops down a chute onto a second conveyer. A separation screen receives the relatively light MSW recyclable materials from the air separator and separates the relatively flat paper and cardboard from the plastic and metal containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Emerging Acquisitions, LLC
    Inventors: Steve Miller, Roy Miller
  • Patent number: 7807727
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for selectively separating mixed synthetic organic materials such as filled or non-filled polymers and/or copolymers that are wastes, particularly used, for recycling in order to upgrade them. These synthetic organic materials result from the destruction by crushing of automobiles and durable consumer goods that have reached the end of their serviceable lives. Said selective separation method acts by separating these materials with regard to a density threshold selected in a dense medium consisting of separating fluid liquid suspensions composed of powdery particles dispersed in an aqueous phase. These suspensions are stabilized by using a dynamic stabilizing means at a density threshold value selected for causing the selective separation of a determined fraction from the mixture of the used materials to be separated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Galloo Plastics
    Inventors: Hugues De Feraudy, Henri Seinera
  • Patent number: 7803848
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for selectively separating synthetic organic materials such as polymers and/or reinforced or non-reinforced copolymers in the form of wastes, in particular domestic wastes recyclable in order to be reused. Said synthetic organic materials are recuperated from broken used cars and obsolete consumer durable products. The inventive method for selective separation consists in separating materials which have an identical density threshold value and are selected from a dense medium comprising separate liquid fluid suspensions which consist of powdery disperses particles in an aqueous phase and are stabilized with respect to the density threshold value selected in such a way that a selective separation of a determined fraction of the mixture of separable used material is initiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Galloo Plastics
    Inventors: Hugues De Feraudy, Henri Seinera
  • Patent number: 7775370
    Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of apparatus and methods for separating particles in a fluid stream by size. In one illustrative embodiment of an apparatus for separating such particles, a housing is provided, which defines a channel for a fluid stream containing particles. A suction channel is provided, which terminates at a suction port. The suction port is positioned adjacent to the fluid stream. A blowing channel terminating at a blowing port is also provided. The blowing port is positioned adjacent to the suction port such that the suction port is positioned in between the fluid stream and the blowing port. The blowing port and the suction port are configured to create a low pressure region and thereby redirect the first fluid stream towards the low pressure region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Utah State University
    Inventor: Barton L. Smith
  • Patent number: 7735658
    Abstract: A classification apparatus including a magnetic stirrer composed of main body (1) and rotor (2) and, arranged on the main body of the magnetic stirrer, classification tube (3). The interior of the classification tube is provided with classification compartments (A-E) partitioned from each other by divider plates (5a-5b). The lowermost classification compartment (A) is furnished with gas emission conduit (7). In the classification compartment (A), the rotor (2) of the magnetic stirrer is arranged. From gas supply source (8), a high-pressure gas is fed into the gas emission conduit. By means of the gas emitted from the gas emission conduit, a vortex flow rising from the lowermost classification compartment sequentially toward higher classification compartments is generated in the classification tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignees: The Doshisha, Kyoto University, Fukujuen Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jusuke Hidaka, Shinzo Yoshikado, Yoshiyuki Shirakawa, Yoshiaki Ito, Kiyoshi Hayakawa, Yuuko Watanabe
  • Patent number: 7712611
    Abstract: Apparatus for separating particulate material into relatively fine and relatively coarse particles wherein such particulate material and a gas stream are introduced independently of one another to a separating zone through which the gas stream flows at such volume and velocity as to entrain fine particles and convey them from the separating zone to grinding or other facilities and wherein the fineness of entrained particles may be adjusted by diverting a selected portion of the gas stream from the separating zone to a bypass passageway followed by recombining the diverted portion of such gas stream with the gas containing the entrained particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Polysius Corporation
    Inventors: Donald A. Longhurst, Franz-Josef Zurhove
  • Patent number: 7543710
    Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of apparatus and methods for separating particles in a fluid stream by size. In one embodiment of an apparatus for separating such particles, a housing is provided, which defines a channel for a fluid stream containing particles. A suction channel is also provided, which terminates at a suction port. The suction port is positioned adjacent to the fluid stream. The suction channel may be configured to create a low pressure region and thereby redirect particles in the first fluid stream such that they may be sorted by size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Utah State University
    Inventors: Barton L Smith, Zachary Earl Humes
  • Publication number: 20090032626
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for separating materials, such as fluff and plastic found in disposable diapers. A separator unit is provided having an inlet for receiving the materials, means for separating the materials, and multiple outlets for each of the respective materials. In one aspect, the system is substantially pneumatic, and air is used to separate the materials. In some aspects, a shredder is provided for shredding the materials prior to separating, and balers are provided for baling each of the respective materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventors: Steven L. Armstrong, Larry Parmet, Kevin Murray, Jeffrey S. Gottwald
  • Publication number: 20080257789
    Abstract: A device (32) is provided for separating particles in a material (34), the particles having different conductivities. The device (32) comprises a feeder (36) for accommodating the material (34), the feeder (36) defining an outlet opening (38). Charging means (40) is located within the feeder (36) and proximate the opening (38) of the feeder (36), the charging means (40) being arranged to directly charge the particles. The device (32) further includes a rotatable drum (42) that is located adjacent the opening (38) of the feeder (36). In use, the charging means (40) is arranged to produce a cloud of similarly charged particles that leave the feeder (36) via the opening (38) and land on the drum (42) substantially as a monolayer, with conductive particles (48) subsequently losing their charge to the drum (42) and thus falling off, while the insulative/less conductive particles (50) remain charged and thus attracted to the surface of the drum (42) so as to be removed further on in the rotation of the drum (42).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2005
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventor: Sergei Dimitrievich Vaulin
  • Patent number: 7428971
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fine-particle sorting technique that uses optical pressure (optical force) and that can be applied in place of heretofore known cell sorting techniques; and a fine-particle recovering technique therefor. The fine-particle recovering method of the present invention comprises directing a laser beam toward a flow path of fine particles in such a manner that the laser beam crosses the flow direction of the fine particles to thereby deflect the direction of movement of the fine particles to be recovered, in the direction of convergence of the laser beam. The sorting method of the present invention comprises performing flow cytometric sorting of fine particles according to the above recovering method of the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Techno Network Shikoku Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ken Hirano, Yoshinobu Baba
  • Patent number: 7413084
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for continuously or substantially continuously separating particulate matter based on particle size and/or density of the matter. The system includes a separation chamber having a bottom portion disposed within a cavity of a rotatable bowl having fluid therein, preferably water. The internal cavity of the separation chamber is maintained under negative pressure such that fluid is drawn through the separation chamber at a predetermined velocity to separate the solids. Larger, dewatered and/or denser solids are directed to the cavity of the rotatable bowl and can be removed by rotation of the bowl while the smaller and/or less dense solids and fluid travel up through the separation chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Inventor: Paul C. Wegner
  • Publication number: 20080116118
    Abstract: Blending methods for adding and uniformly mixing a small fraction of relatively small particles (additives) to a bulk particulate powder of larger size than the additives. In particular, the present invention provides blending methods for adding and uniformly mixing a small percentage of flow/fluidization additives into fine powders, especially fine paint powders. The fine powder and additives are first pre-mixed for macro-scale homogeneity and then further mixed at a micro-scale (such as with a screen mixing process) for micro-scale homogeneity. With these methods, optimum dispersions and maximum functionalities of additives can be obtained and the disadvantages caused by severe agglomerates of additives can be avoided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Inventors: Jingxu Zhu, Hui Zhang
  • Patent number: 7367456
    Abstract: An improved air jig apparatus and method is disclosed in which a dry magnetic separator is used to separate paramagnetic and ferromagnetic minerals from the dust component of coal cleaned with the air jig. The cleaned product of the dry magnetic separator is combined with the cleaned product of the air jig thereby improving both the quality and the quantity of the unmodified air jig product. The dry magnetic separator may be of a variety of types including but not limited to separators made from permanent magnets, electromagnets, and superconducting magnets, each of which may also employ triboelectric and/or aerodynamic means to enhance the separation of the dust material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: EXPORTech Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Robin R. Oder, Richard S. Weinstein
  • Publication number: 20070289902
    Abstract: A compact housing for a dedusting apparatus utilizes a magnetic flux field to disrupt the static charge attracting dust particles to product particles, which along with fluidization and counter current airflow principles that are proven to dislodge dust particles from the product, provides a highly efficient, compact deduster. The housing supports a double wash deck with product flow separated between the back-to-back primary wash decks. A deflector directing the flow of product onto the primary wash decks is provided with an extension that extends parallel to the wash deck to eliminated product bouncing off of the wash deck. The lower air outlets are eliminated, while the upper air outlets are positioned in extensions to the main housing above the product inlet opening. Air flow through the Venturi zone is enhanced by re-directing clean air directly to the backside of the Venturi panels, thereby eliminating the extraneous by-pass boxes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Publication date: December 20, 2007
    Inventors: Jerome I. Paulson, Heinz Schneider, Paul Wagner
  • Patent number: 7225931
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a filter device, especially for a fluidised bed system and particularly for use in the pharmaceutical industry, for separating particles larger than a separating grain from an amount of particles in a fluid flow. The filter device includes a housing and at least one filter portion. A part of the housing is mounted for rotational movement, and the filter portion is provided in the housing, whereby the filter portion is movable upon rotation of the housing. The present invention also relates to a method for separating particles using such a filter device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: AstraZeneca AB
    Inventor: Håkan Glad
  • Patent number: 7140565
    Abstract: A scrap collector is comprised of a separator, a ventilating device, a chipping collecting container, a collecting bag, and a communicating pipe. The separator includes an air chamber, an inlet communicating with the air chamber, and a bottom hole communicating with the air chamber. The ventilating device is mounted on the separator and is provided with an outlet, generating an airflow flowing towards the outlet. The chipping collecting container is mounted under the separator, including an opening connected with the bottom hole of the separator. The collecting bag is mounted inside the chipping collecting container, including an opening in communication with the air chamber. An airtight room is defined between the chipping collecting container and the collecting bag. The communicating pipe has two ends respectively communicating with the air chamber and the room. Accordingly, the pressure inside the collecting bag and the room remains equal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: OAV Equipment & Tools, Inc.
    Inventor: Ching-Lin Tsai
  • Patent number: 7118054
    Abstract: A pressure differential material transport system to transfer materials with an airflow to a sewer system. Embodiments of the pressure differential material transport system may be used for residential or industrial applications to dispose of materials to the sewer or to a comminutor to reduce the size of materials prior to disposal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Tommin Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: Richard Timothy Grimes
  • Patent number: 7028844
    Abstract: An improved dried lavender processing apparatus and method comprises a multi-module system comprising a first de-stemmer unit that receives the dried lavender in bundles, separates the buds (corollas/calyxes) from the stems and leaves, collects the stems and leaves as waste, and provides the buds to a second separator/classifier unit. The second, separator/classifier unit employs air or vacuum transport to convey, separate and classify the final bud product from the minor stem, leaves and minor debris and to exhaust and remove the hazardous dust and organic particulates. The system may include a third unit comprising a dust collector system. The final product flower buds are collected in an output hopper in clean condition for immediate bagging as a potpourri or sachet product, or may be further processed for the essential oils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Inventor: Robert D. Nelson
  • Patent number: 7028847
    Abstract: A two-stage dynamic classifier (30, 30?) for classifying a pulverized feed material (34, 34?, 38) entrained in an air flow (31) includes a vertically extending housing having a lower feed material inlet (18), an upper feed material outlet (24), a processing section (47, 47?) disposed between the feed material inlet and the feed material outlet, and a lower tailings discharge (26). A classifier conditioner (32) is disposed in a lower portion of the processing section and a turbine classifier (42, 44) is disposed in an upper portion of the processing section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: ALSTOM Technology Ltd
    Inventors: Michael M. Chen, Jianrong Chen
  • Patent number: 6953517
    Abstract: In order to make it possible for an inhomogeneous residue generated in a pyrolysis plant to be separated continuously and in as fully graded a way as possible, specially selected components are combined with one anther in an advantageous configuration. An essential element of the plant is the separation of a coarse residue in a coarse screen and the subsequent separation of the remaining residue in a zigzag separator into a light residue and a heavy residue. By use of the plant, in particular, the carbon-containing constituents are separated from the remaining residue. The individual components are mostly configured to be self-cleaning for fault-free operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Joachim Boretzky, Anton Ebert, Leonhard Teschers, Winfried Von Rhein, Helmut Werdinig
  • Patent number: 6905029
    Abstract: A method, system, apparatus, and article of manufacture provide a cross-flow migration classifier capable of separating particles. The classifier provides a channel through which a sample, having one or more particles, passes in a first direction, wherein the channel comprises two or more walls that are permeable to a flow of fluid. A cross-flow enters the channel through one of the permeable walls and exits through another of the permeable walls. An imposed field is applied in a second direction that is counter to the cross-flow and having an orthogonal component to the first direction. The imposed field causes one or more of the particles to migrate at a first velocity opposite and/or equal to a second velocity of the cross-flow. The particles that migrate opposite to the cross-flow are continuously discharged from the cross-flow migration classifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventor: Richard C. Flagan
  • Publication number: 20040035765
    Abstract: The invention relates to an air separator for sifting material suspended in a flow of gas having course material and fine material by using a sifting wheel which rotates in a sifting chamber and which has blades fixed on the external periphery thereof. The blade channels are cross-flown radially from the outside by gas containing the suspended fine particles. The oversized particles are rejected before reaching he internal end of the blade canal. The flow of fine particles is guided through the blade channels in a forced manner in a plurality of consecutive layers in the direction of the axis of rotation. The arrangement in layers of the flow of fine particles after it leaves the blade channels remains in place until it leaves the sifting chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventor: Roland Nied
  • Patent number: 6644478
    Abstract: In a separating wheel for an air separator the radially outside ends of the separating wheel blades are tilted backwards in the direction of rotation of the separating wheel. In the area of the radially outside end of the separating wheel blades the front wall of the separating wheel blades which is viewed in the direction of rotation is tilted to the radial direction at a greater angle than the rear blade wall. Very good separating behavior is achieved by the dramatically inclined front wall of the separating wheel blades. The smaller tilt of the rear wall of the separating wheel blades with respect to the radial furthermore prevents the separated material from attaching to the rear wall of the separating wheel blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Josef Keuschnigg
  • Patent number: 6631808
    Abstract: An air classifier with enhanced air flow which maybe used for the simultaneous recovery of two or more distinct grades of foundry quality sand from a single sand stream. The air classifier exhibits improved performance by drawing into the classification chamber, through the use of suction, incoming air through a honeycomb followed by a screen section having two or more screens. The honeycomb removes swirl in the air and the screens slow down the fast moving air more than the slow moving air. After passing through the screens, the velocity profile of the air in the chamber is flat across the inlet flow path and, as a result, improved classification performance is achieved. Classification performance may be further enhanced through the use of a vibrating screen feeder for spreading the incoming particle stream before entrainment in the air flow within the classifier and through upward flowing air in one or more product receiver sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: Particle and Coating Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Sparks