Patent ID: 7908764
Filing Date: 2011-03-22
Classification: B04B,C10L,F23G,F23K,F26B

Abstract:
1. A centrifugal separator for receiving a feed containing liquids and solids, separating liquids from solids, and drying removed solids, the separator comprising: a rotatable bowl having a solid portion for centrifugally separating liquids and solids and located adjacent an entrance end of the bowl configured for receiving the feed, and a slotted portion for drying solids and located adjacent an exit end of the bowl configured for discharging dried solids; a rotatable conveyor operable to advance solids from the entrance end of the bowl toward the exit end of the bowl; a source of pressurized gas in selective flow communication with an interior portion of the slotted portion of the bowl and operable to selectively supply pressurized gas to the interior portion of the slotted portion of the bowl; a first sealing structure located adjacent the exit end of the bowl and operable to selectively block passage of solids from the slotted portion of the bowl through the exit end and thereby selectively establish a first pressure seal at the exit end of the bowl when the source of pressurized gas is supplying pressurized gas to the interior portion of the slotted portion of the bowl; and a second sealing structure located within the bowl for interacting with liquids pooled within the solid portion of the bowl for establishing a second pressure seal when the source of pressurized gas is supplying pressurized gas to the interior portion of the slotted portion of the bowl; wherein, when the first and second pressure seals are established they provide a zone within the slotted portion of the bowl such that when the pressurized gas is introduced within the interior portion of the slotted portion of the bowl, pressure within the slotted portion of the bowl increases for enhanced removal of moisture and drying of solids within the slotted portion of the bowl.