Abstract: A system for separating a composite fluid into component parts thereof, including: a centrifuge having a rotor with a separation space and at least two valve members disposed thereon and a container set having a separation container adapted to be disposed in the separation space of the rotor and first and second collection containers connected to the separation container by a first and a second tubes. The tubes are adapted to be disposed in operative relationship with the valve members so that flow through the tubes may be controlled thereby. Three components of the composite fluid may be separated therefrom by the present system and two components may be moved to the collection containers. The container set may further include a third collection container connected to the separation container by a tube, and a third component may thus be moved to this third container.

Abstract: A centrifuge apparatus for processing blood comprising a bottom spring-loaded support plate; a top support plate; an axial inlet/outlet for blood to be processed and processed components of the blood, the axial inlet/outlet being attached to the top support plate by a rotating seal assembly; a variable volume separation chamber mounted between the bottom support plate and the top support plate, the variable volume separation chamber being fluidly connected to the axial inlet/outlet; a pump fluidly connected to the axial inlet/outlet; and a rotary drive unit attached to the bottom support plate. The top support plate is fixed vertically and the bottom spring-loaded support plate is mounted on springs that maintain pressure on the variable volume separation chamber and allow the bottom support plate to move vertically.

Abstract: The invention refers to a centrifugal separator and a method of separating a product to a heavy phase and light phase. A centrifuge rotor encloses a closed separation space, which has a radially outer part for the heavy phase, a radially inner part for the light phase and a central gas-filled space. The radially outer part is separated from the radially inner part by a interface layer level. An inlet extends into the separation space for feeding the product. A first outlet extend from the radially outer part for discharge of the heavy phase. A second outlet extends from the radially inner part for discharge of the light phase. A control equipment permits control of the interface layer level to a desired radial position. A sensor senses a parameter related to the gas pressure in the central space. The control equipment controls the counter pressure in the first outlet in response to the sensed parameter for controlling the interface layer level to the desired radial position.

Abstract: A system for separating a composite fluid into component parts thereof, including: a centrifuge having a rotor with a separation space and at least two valve members disposed thereon and a container set having a separation container adapted to be disposed in the separation space of the rotor and first and second collection containers connected to the separation container by a first and a second tubes. The tubes are adapted to be disposed in operative relationship with the valve members so that flow through the tubes may be controlled thereby. Three components of the composite fluid may be separated therefrom by the present system and two components may be moved to the collection containers. The container set may further include a third collection container connected to the separation container by a tube, and a third component may thus be moved to this third container.

Abstract: A centrifuge with controlled discharge of dense materials disclosed. A centrifuge includes a fluid separation wall placed within a sleeve to form a containment zone therebetween. The fluid separation wall aligns and rotates parallel to an axis of rotation. A receptacle forming a part of the fluid separation wall includes a void area. An opening extending through the fluid separation wall from the void area to the outer surface of the receptacle transports the more dense material to the containment zone. A valve ring forming a part of the fluid separation wall includes a valve orifice. The valve ring aligned perpendicular to the axis of rotation and slides along the fluid separation wall to move between open and closed positions. The valve orifice aligns with the opening such that the more dense material exits the fluid separation wall and moves into the containment zone.

Abstract: A method for separating particulate matter from a fluid includes feeding a fluid containing a particulate matter into a chamber of a vessel through an inlet, the chamber being at least partially bounded by a peripheral wall and the chamber also communicating with a first outlet and a second outlet. The vessel is rotated such that at least a portion of the particulate matter settles out of the fluid against at least a portion of the peripheral wall. At least a portion of the particulate matter settled against the peripheral is subsequently disturbed so that at least a portion of the particulate matter is resuspend within the fluid. The method further includes removing at least a portion of the fluid having the resuspended particulate matter therein through the first outlet and removing through the second outlet the fluid from which the particulate material has settled out.

Abstract: A system and method are used in connection with processing of blood components. The processing of blood components may involve centrifugal separation and/or filtering of the blood components. In some examples, at least some blood components are centrifugally separated in a chamber and then filtered via a filter rotating along with a centrifuge rotor, wherein the filter is located closer than the chamber to an axis of rotation of the rotor. The filter may include a porous filtration medium configured to filter leukocytes, platelets, and/or red blood cells. Some examples include a pressure sensor sensing pressure of pumped blood components. The sensed pressure may be used in connection with controlling the pumping of the blood products and/or in connection with determining the location of an interface associated with the blood products. Other uses of the sensed pressure are also possible.

Abstract: The invention disclosed is control equipment for use with a nozzle centrifuge for separating a light phase liquid, a heavy phase liquid, and/or solids from a mixture thereof wherein the separated heavy phase and solids are continuously removed through nozzles that are arranged at the periphery of the rotor of the nozzle centrifuge. Separated light phase liquid is discharged through a central outlet in the rotor. Through a space in the rotor, which communicates with the radially outer part of the rotor separating chamber, liquid may either be supplied under pressure to the rotor or be discharged from the rotor far maintaining an interface layer formed in the separating chamber between separated light and heavy phases. A supply device and a discharge device are adapted to supply to the rotor and discharge from the rotor, respectively, only so much liquid as is required for the purpose.

Abstract: The invention relates to a centrifuge provided with a blood bag system having an upper and lower outlet for separation of blood constituents, containing a rotor which can be driven in a rotative manner about a hub, wherein at least one conventional whole blood bag equipped with an upper outlet and with a lower outlet can be positioned vertically in this blood bag, while the whole blood bag can be arranged on the rotor in such a way that one outlet of the whole blood bag is bent in a radial direction, and the opposite outlet of the whole blood bag is bent in the other radial direction, so that the entire whole blood bag and the outlets thereof adopt an approximately Z- or S-shaped form in its functional position. In this case it is preferred that the upper outlet of the whole blood bag lie radially toward the interior and the lower outlet of the whole blood bag lie radially toward the exterior of the whole blood bag.

Abstract: Method of separating cells in a centrifuge, preferably for producing platelets. A cell suspension is provided in a processing bag and is centrifuged. The cell enriched fraction is transferred to a storage bag via an outlet tube. The outlet tube is arranged with a portion thereof in a position adjacent the periphery of the centrifuge. When the enriched fraction is transferred through the outlet tube placed at the periphery of the centrifuge and during centrifugation, the outlet tube operates as a cell trap and the enriched fraction is further separated. Preferably, the cell suspension is buffy coat and the enriched fraction comprises platelets. The corresponding bag assembly comprises a processing bag intended to enclose the cell suspension. The processing bag is placed in a centrifuge rotor for separating the cells into a fraction enriched on platelets by centrifugation.

Abstract: An indication device indicates an undesired operation condition of a centrifugal separator and comprises an inlet valve situated in a supply conduit to the separator, and an outlet valve situated in an outlet conduit from the separator. During normal operation of the separator the valves are adjusted in open normal valve positions for passing normal flows through the supply and outlet conduits. A control unit is adapted to activate a signal generator to generate an error signal in response to a pressure sensor if the pressure sensor during a predetermined period of time during operation of the separator senses a course of pressure change in the outlet conduit different from an expected normal course of pressure change, when the inlet and outlet valves during predetermined period of time are adjusted in valve positions which at least substantially decreases the flows in the supply and outlet conduits from the normal flows.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for separating and measuring solids from multi-phase well fluids. The apparatus comprises a separator; an upper solids level and a lower solids level sensor, both connected to the separator; a dump valve operatively connected to the separator; and a control module operatively connected to the dump valve to move the dump valve between an open and a closed position. The upper solids level sensor generates a first signal when the upper level of accumulated solids-within the separator reaches a pre-determined upper level. The lower solids level sensor generates a second signal when the upper level of accumulated solids within the separator reaches a predetermined lower level. The control module receives the first and second generated signals such that upon receipt of the first signal the control module causes the dump valve to open and upon receipt of the second signal the control module causes the dump valve to close.

Abstract: A system for separating biological fluids into components, comprises a set of containers for the biological fluid to be separated and the separated components, optionally an additional container for additive solution, and a hollow centrifugal processing chamber having an axial inlet/outlet for the biological fluid. The processing chamber contains a piston movable to intake a selected quantity of biological fluid and express processed biological fluid components via the outlet. Optical means monitor the position of piston to control the amount of intaken fluid and the expression of components. A distribution valve arrangement selectively communicates the processing chamber and the containers or places them out of communication. The system is arranged to operate in a seperation mode and in a non-separation transfer mode, especially for adding preservative solution to separated blood stem cells.

Abstract: A centrifugal device. The centrifugal device includes two drive units (1, 22) , coaxially mounted and pivoting, devices (23-33) to drive the first (1) and the second (22) drive units, with a rotational speed ratio of 2/1 between each other, a circular centrifugal unit (2) equipped with at least three channels (4, 5,6) connecting its center to a peripheral separation chamber (3) and three tubes (4a, 5a, 6a) made of an elastic deformable material, each presenting a first extremity connected to the central extremity of one of the three channels (4, 5, 6) of the centrifugal unit (2). The first coupling devices (16) are integral with the first drive unit (1) and the second coupling devices (11) are integral with the centrifugal unit (2), engaged by elastic devices (18). A moving control unit (17), integral with a gripping component (20), is connected to the sad elastic devices (18) to release coupling devices (11, 16) from each other.

Abstract: This device includes a centrifugal cup or bowl (2) rotating at the speed of 2&ohgr; around its revolving axis, a separation chamber (3) connected to the center of this cup or bowl (3) by three channels (4, 5, 6) integral to three flexible tubes (4a, 5a, 6a) forming open loops driven at the speed of &ohgr; while their second respect extremities, coaxially located with respect to the first ones, are stationary. The radius and height of this cup or bowl (2) are between 25-50 mm, and 75 to 125% respectively of this radius; its angular speed 2&ohgr; is >500 rad/sec to ensure a flow rate for the liquid to be centrifuged of at least 100 ml/min. The material and the dimensions of the tubes (4a, 5a, 6a) are chosen so that the traction force exerted on them is <0.7 N/mm2, its elasticity module is <5 N/mm2 and its rupturing resistance to alternate bending is higher than 1.5 N/mm2.

Abstract: Blood processing systems and methods rotate a processing chamber on a rotating element. The processing chamber includes a first compartment and a second compartment. Blood is conveyed into the first compartment for centrifugal separation into components. A liquid free of blood occupies the second compartment to counter-balance the first compartment during rotation on the rotating element. In one embodiment, the second compartment is served by a single fluid flow access. Prior to use, the single access is coupled to tubing, through which a vacuum is drawn to remove air from the second compartment. While the vacuum exists, communication is opened between the tubing and a source of liquid. The vacuum draws the liquid into the second compartment through the single access, thereby priming the second compartment for use.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for collecting whole blood and then separating it into components for subsequent use or storage. A self-contained bag set is used to collect the sample, which may then be placed into container adapted to fit into a centrifuge for separation of components. Each component is then sequentially extracted according to density, with a sensor present in the container to control the operation of valves directing the collection of each component. Each component may then be separated into its own storage container.

Abstract: A fluid mixture containing a heavy component and a light component is separated by feeding the fluid mixture into a vessel. The vessel includes a light component outlet regulated by a first valve and a heavy component outlet regulated by a second valve. The vessel is rotated about a rotational axis extending through the vessel as the liquid-liquid mixture is feed into the chamber such that the heavy component collects toward at least a portion of the peripheral wall of the vessel radially outward from the rotational axis and the lighter component collects toward the rotational axis. The first valve is set such that the light component exits therethrough at a first pressure. The second valve is set such that the heavy component exits therethrough at a second pressure, the second pressure being different than the first pressure.

Abstract: An automated blood separation method and apparatus is described that allows for the separation of multiple units of blood simultaneously. The method and apparatus reliably and quickly separates blood into its components. An auto-balancing feature within the apparatus automatically preferably compensates for the changing state of imbalance, thereby eliminating the need for additional balancing steps during the separation process. The apparatus has a rotor into which a plurality of cassettes can be inserted. The cassettes have a number of sections for the containment of the whole blood and for the separated blood components, which are contained in disposable bags. The rotor is placed into a centrifuge assembly, and the blood components are then separated and transferred to the bags in the individual sections of the cassettes. Means for including secondary separation devices such as filters is included.

Abstract: Blood processing systems and methods rotate a processing chamber on a rotating element. The processing chamber includes a first compartment and a second compartment. Blood is conveyed into the first compartment for centrifugal separation into components. A liquid free of blood occupies the second compartment to counter-balance the first compartment during rotation on the rotating element. In one embodiment, the second compartment is served by a single fluid flow access. Prior to use, the single access is coupled to tubing, through which a vacuum is drawn to remove air from the second compartment. While the vacuum exists, communication is opened between the tubing and a source of liquid. The vacuum draws the liquid into the second compartment through the single access, thereby priming the second compartment for use.

Abstract: An automated blood separation method and apparatus is described that allows for the separation of multiple units of blood simultaneously. The method and apparatus reliably and quickly separates blood into its components. An auto-balancing feature within the apparatus automatically preferably compensates for the changing state of imbalance, thereby eliminating the need for additional balancing steps during the separation process. The apparatus has a rotor into which a plurality of cassettes can be inserted. The cassettes have a number of sections for the containment of the whole blood and for the separated blood components, which are contained in disposable bags. The rotor is placed into a centrifuge assembly, and the blood components are then separated and transferred to the bags in the individual sections of the cassettes. Means for including secondary separation devices such as filters is included.

Abstract: In a centrifugal rotor (1) for separation of a substance from a liquid mixture supplied to the centrifugal rotor there is delimited a separation chamber (7) having peripheral outlets (30). The centrifugal rotor includes an outlet device (20-28) for intermittent opening and closing of the outlets (30) during rotation of the centrifugal rotor. An actuation device (31-40) may cause the outlet device (20-28) to keep the outlets (30) open to a varying extent and/or during a varying time, and a control device (43) is adapted to control the actuation device (31-40) in response to a sensed value of the amount of mixture supplied to the rotor, such that a predetermined amount of separated substance (29) having collected in the separation chamber (7) is discharged through the outlets (30) each time these are opened and closed.

Abstract: An automated blood separation method and apparatus is described that allows for the separation of multiple units of blood simultaneously. The method and apparatus reliably and quickly separates blood into its components. An auto-balancing feature within the apparatus automatically preferably compensates for the changing state of imbalance, thereby eliminating the need for additional balancing steps during the separation process. The apparatus has a rotor into which a plurality of cassettes can be inserted. The cassettes have a number of sections for the containment of the whole blood and for the separated blood components, which are contained in disposable bags. The rotor is placed into a centrifuge assembly, and the blood components are then separated and transferred to the bags in the individual sections of the cassettes. Means for including secondary separation devices such as filters is included.

Abstract: Systems and methods obtain a platelet suspension with reduced number of leukocytes by centrifugally separating whole blood into red blood cells, a suspension of platelets, and an intermediate layer comprising leukocytes. The systems and methods convey the suspension of platelets from the centrifugal separation chamber to a filter, while maintaining the intermediate layer containing leukocytes inside the centrifugal separation chamber. The systems and methods filter remaining leukocytes from the platelet suspension in the filter.

Abstract: A blood separation system operates in a first mode to convey whole blood into the inlet region of a blood processing chamber for centrifugal separation into packed red blood cells, a plasma constituent, and an interface, which carries mononuclear cells, between the packed red blood cells and the plasma constituent. The system removes packed red blood cells and the plasma constituent from the chamber, while maintaining the interface within the chamber. The system operates in a second mode to remove the interface from the chamber by conveying packed red blood cells into the inlet region. An outlet path conveys the removed interface from the chamber. The outlet path includes a first sensing element to locate mononuclear cells in the removed interface and provide a sensed output upon locating mononuclear cells.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for centrifuging and further automatically handling a container (110) for separating a component, such as fibrin monomer, from blood. The container (110) comprises a cylindrical member (27) and a piston displaceable in said cylindrical member, said piston comprising a tubular piston rod (8) extending through a top wall (73). The piston divides the cylindrical member (27) into a first chamber (70) positioned above said piston between said piston and the top wall (73), and a second chamber positioned below said piston. The top wall (73) of the container comprises an extension (90) defining a circumferential slit surrounding the outer side of the piston rod (8), whereby one end of said slit communicates in the axial direction with the first chamber. In addition, the first chamber communicates through a plurality of channels with the second chamber.

Abstract: Systems and methods separate whole blood containing leukocytes in a first separation chamber into a first layer comprising red blood cells, a second layer comprising a suspension of platelets, and an interface between the first and second layers. The systems and methods convey the suspension of platelets into a second separation chamber while simultaneously filtering the suspension of platelets to reduce the number of leukocytes. The systems and methods separate the filtered suspension of platelets in the second separation chamber into a platelet-rich concentrate and platelet-poor component.

Abstract: Method and equipment for monitoring a centrifugal separator, with a separation chamber (6), a radially inner outlet (18, 19, 20) connected to the separation chamber (6), which is connected to an outlet conduit (21), a flow sensor (28) in the outlet conduit (21) being arranged to indicate a flow in the outlet conduit, an intermittently operable radially outer outlet (7) connected to the separation chamber (6), the flow of the separated component in the outlet conduit (21) ceasing temporarily until the separation chamber (6) has been refilled. In order to monitor the centrifugal separator in a reliable and easy manner the time for the refilling of the separation chamber (6) is measured and is compared with a shortest allowable time for the refilling of the separation chamber (6) stored and a signal is given if the measured time is shorter than the shortest allowable time stored in the memory.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for centrifugal solids separation for use in the drilling industry, concerned with the conservation of drilling mud. The apparatus comprises a rotatable container, a device for inputting used mud to the container preferably with minimal turbulence, a collection device for collecting and compacting separated solids material, a device for wiping separated solids material from the sides of the container and preferably directing this material to the collection a device and an output from the container for cleaned mud. So that the apparatus may be employed for continuous mud cleaning or solids separation, the collection device may be isolated from the container to allow dumping of collected solids material. Where there are multiple collection compartments there may be a synchronised cycle of dumping of the collection device to maintain balance of the container during continuing centrifugal rotation.

Abstract: The centrifuge (1) described has at least one device (11,12) designed to control the operation of the centrifuge, the devices being mounted to rotate with the rotating part of the centrifuge and to be operated by a mechanical actuator (13) also rotating with it. Such devices may, for instance, be drain valves, periodically opening discharge valves, sill height adjustment devices, pressure-control devices, temperature-control devices, etc. At least one part of the devices of this centrifuge to be controlled independently of the centrifugal force is designed so that the rotating actuator (13) changes its shape as a function of the temperature and has at least one temperature-specific shape.

Abstract: An apheresis apparatus for increasing the purity and yield of platelets separated from donated whole blood by centrifugation incorporates a centrifuge for separating whole blood into lower, intermediate, and higher density components. The centrifuge has inlet and outlet ports in selective fluid communication with a container for receiving lower density blood component from the outlet port. A pump is coupled to the container and the inlet port for recirculating lower density blood component from the first container through the inlet port into the centrifuge at a first, substantially constant, rate so as to widen the region of the centrifuge occupied by the intermediate density component without causing the intermediate density component to exit the centrifuge, and subsequently at a second rate, so as to displace intermediate density component from the centrifuge.

Abstract: A separator comprises a frame supporting a closed cylindrical drum, a motor for rotating the drum about a central, longitudinal axis, an inlet through which a liquid from which constituents are to be separated is introduced into the drum, and an outlet through which relatively clean liquid is dischargeable from the drum. During the separating process, centrifugal force causes a layer of the heavier constituents to collect on the interior surface of the drum, displacing the relatively clean liquid into an annular layer situated concentrically with and between the constituent layer and the entering volume of liquid, such that the contents of the annular layer is separately dischargeable from the drum in a continuous manner.

Abstract: A self-contained liquid vapor purging system for use in such electromotive apparatus as integrated drive generators, or the like, which include a casing and a rotatable shaft extending into the casing. A charge pump circuit communicates with the casing for circulating liquid from the casing and charging liquid back to the casing. An aspirator is located in the charge pump circuit between a charge pump and a inlet to the casing for mixing fresh air with the liquid to deliver an air-liquid mixture to the casing. A centrifugal separator and check valve are incorporated in the rotatable shaft for separating liquid and vapor. The separator includes a vapor-liquid inlet from the casing, a liquid outlet to the casing, and a vapor outlet draining outside the casing. The centifrugal separator includes a valve in communication with the vapor outlet. One form of valve opens only at a predetermined rotary speed of the shaft, and another form of valve opens at a predetermined absolute pressure value.

Abstract: An integrated blood collection, separation and dispensing device is disclosed that allows a method of blood collection, serum separation and serum dispensing to occur using a single device (other than a centrifuge). The device preferably includes a transfer chamber for receiving separated serum, that has a three-dimensional shape that is reduced in volume and is configured to avoid air entrapment. A dispensing aperture in the transfer chamber fluidly connects the chamber with the atmosphere. Preferably, means are provided adjacent the dispensing aperture for generating a liquid pressure change indication of the presence of liquid advancing towards the dispensing aperture. A needle and a protective housing optionally are provided as an integral part of the device.

Abstract: A device is disclosed that causes phase separation of whole blood, using much lower centrifugal forces. As a result, lymphocytes are separated from blood cells having specific gravities of 1.08 g/ml or higher. The device features a separation chamber arranged so that its long dimension or axis is parallel, not perpendicular, to the spin axis, and a valve that allows automatic removal of the lighter phase(s). The valve is constructed to respond only to the head of liquid pressure generated by an increased centrifugal force, and not to that increased force alone.

Abstract: A self-contained liquid vapor purging system for use in such electromotive apparatus as integrated drive generators, or the like, which include a casing and a rotatable shaft extending into the casing. A charge pump circuit communicates with the casing for circulating liquid from the casing and charging liquid back to the casing. An aspirator is located in the charge pump circuit between a charge pump and an inlet to the casing for mixing fresh air with the liquid to deliver an air-liquid mixture to the casing. A centrifugal separator and check valve are incorporated in the rotatable shaft for separating liquid and vapor. The separator includes a vapor-liquid inlet from the casing, a liquid outlet to the casing, and a vapor outlet draining outside the casing. The centrifugal separator includes a centrifugal valve in communication with the vapor outlet for opening only at a predetermined rotary speed of the shaft.

Abstract: In a centrifugal separator, the rotor of which has a separation chamber (7) with an inlet (16) for a liquid mixture, a constantly open central outlet (23) for a separated liquid and an intermittently openable peripheral outlet (13) for separated solids, a so-called displacement liquid is supplied to the separation chamber (7) before the peripheral outlet (13) is opened first at a certain flow rate and then at a substantially lesser flow rate. If displacement liquid is sensed in the separated liquid leaving the rotor through the central outlet (23), the peripheral outlet (13) is opened.

Abstract: A solid bowl centrifuge for dewatering sludge exhibiting a conical solid bowl and an inner rotor part which revolving at different speeds and has apparatus for axially transporting solid components for improved separating and reduced energy consumption. The sludge is introduced at a tapered end and solid components are discharge at an expanded end. Introduction of sludge is effected through a radial inlet channel(s). Surface elements are attached to the inner rotor by holder arms and are located at a slight distance from the inner wall of the solid bowl drum. A surface element free axial passage channel is defined between the inner rotor wall and the solid bowl drum extending at least 50% of the radial distance between the rotor wall and the drum. A baffle plate is mounted on the inner rotor at the wide end of the drum leaving an annular gap or passage between a compacting space and a sediment discharge which exhibits a radially inwardly directed sediment outlet channel(s).

Abstract: A centrifuge system for removing impurities from metal working coolant. The centrifuge of the system includes a liquid inlet, a first liquid outlet for high density liquid, a second liquid outlet for low density liquid, a discharge means for a shoot of particulate material, and a pressure port for receiving liquid under pressure to cause the shoot. A line receives high density liquid from the first liquid outlet. The line discharges into a tank. A branch line connects the line to the pressure port. A valve in the line can stop flow to the tank. When the valve is closed, pressure at the pressure port is increased to cause the shoot.

Abstract: In a centrifugal separator for the separation of two liquids the radially outermost part of the separating chamber (7) of the rotor communicates with a central outlet chamber (26) for the separated heavier liquid via a calibrated opening (27). From the outlet chamber (26) a channel (32-34) in a stationary outlet member (31) extends out of the rotor to a reception place for separated heavy liquid. Said channel (32-34) comprises a shut-off valve (35) and has between this and the outlet chamber (26) a calibrated outlet (36) intended to enable a certain liquid flow through at least part of the channel (32-34), while the valve (35) is closed. The throughflow areas of the calibrated opening (27) and the calibrated outlet (36), respectively, are chosen such that, when the valve (35) is closed, the liquid surface in the outlet chamber (26) will be adjusted to a relatively low level, so that unneccessary heat generation is avoided.

Abstract: This invention relates to centrifuges and more particularly to a centrifuge having a separation chamber surface profile to provide a uniform or controlled flow of separated solids and the method of operating a centrifuge to provide such flow.

Abstract: A pressure plate blood processing centrifuge apparatus is described. A plate is disposed adjacent a flexible bag in which blood is being processed. Under the influence of centrifugal force the plate, which is disposed inwardly nearer the center of rotation than the bag, expels a separated blood component from the bag into a receiver container. The container may be located (1) radially inward or (2) radially outward from the bag or (3) adjacent and equidistant from the center of rotation.In the embodiment in which the container is located radially outward from the bag, a valve is provided which is responsive to the specific density of separated components to stop the flow. In other embodiments, the mass of the plate is selected so as to expel only the desired component. A plurality of alternate embodiments are described which make the apparatus useful for a variety of apparatus, such as plasma pheresis, platelet pheresis and cell-washing.