Separating apparatus and feeding arrangement for increased capacity.

Abstract

Separator apparatus and feed arrangement for increased capacity. This is a fluidized bed separator (1) which includes a feed section (4) between an upper separation chamber (19) and a main separation chamber (6). The feed section (4) has one or more feed pipes (11) that extend horizontally and transversely in relation to a body wall (10) of the fluidized bed separator (1). The one or more feed pipes (11) are positioned completely and entirely below the inclined plates (17). A large external protection apparatus (3) which is separate from and external to the body wall (10) can be operationally coupled to the one or more feed pipes (11).One or more lamella cartridges (49) may be provided within channels (18) of the upper separation chamber (19), and one or more separator plates (54, 55) may be inserted within the channels (18) to prevent aeration and facilitate the insertion and extraction of the lamella cartridges (49).

Description

"SEPARATOR APPARATUS AND FEEDING ARRANGEMENT FOR INCREASED CAPACITY" CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED REQUESTS

[0001] None. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The embodiments of the invention relate to an innovative fluidized bed separator (for example, a solid-solid classifier configured to separate solids by particle size and / or density or, a coarse particle flotation unit configured to separate solids by mineralogy) and an innovative feeding arrangement thereof. The embodiments may be particularly useful for classifying or floating particles in processes involving high throughputs (for example, those processing from 1 to 1200 cubic meters of fluid slurry per hour or more, without limitation). BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Fluidized bed separators, such as those incorporating FLSmidth® REFLUX® Classifier technology, have proven to be widely successful in performing size and / or density separations from fluid paste feed inlets. Unfortunately, some problems are associated with the aforementioned devices.

[0004] For example, with prior art fluidized bed separators, lamella plate installation and / or removal processes can be difficult, laborious, and / or time-consuming due to solids growth. Over time, sludge accumulates in the channels supporting the lamella plates, which can increase Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 18 / 54 2 / 30 significantly increases resistance to the removal and tearing forces required to extract the plates from the upper separation chamber.

[0005] Conventional separator devices also need to be drained periodically to perform routine cleaning and removal of solids, including solids that accumulate from the large internal protective device located within the upper separation chamber. These maintenance procedures generally require taking the separator offline for an 8-hour shift once every 1 to 4 weeks. Consequently, there is a long waiting period for a new separator design, which makes the need for frequent downtime to accommodate cleaning schedules obvious.

[0006] Furthermore, conventional fluidized bed separators typically have a large in-situ protective apparatus located within an upper separation chamber that also comprises sluice channels and inclined lamella plates. Said large protective apparatus (as well as the traditional downward-facing fluid paste feed channels, which are also located in the upper separation chamber) restricts the upward flow of smaller / less dense particles through lamella channels within the upper separation chamber.

[0007] Feeding the fluid paste downwards into the heart of the upper separation chamber between and within the lamella plates also impairs the upward flow of material, thus reducing separation efficiency and impacting the amount of material that can easily pass upwards into chutes. The flow area in section Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 19 / 54 The total transverse width through the upper separation chamber is reduced by 3 / 30 due to the fact that the downward-facing fluid paste feed channels and the large protective device occupy volumetric space within it.

[0008] Consequently, current fluidized bed separators are somewhat limited in the amount of material they are capable of processing in a given amount of time and are unable to handle very large productivities (fluid paste feeds of up to 1200 cubic meters per hour or more) since the flows through the lamella plates located in the upper separation chamber are hampered by the fluid paste feed channels and the large protective apparatus.

[0009] Finally, upward flow through lamellae in conventional separators may be less than laminar or may comprise eddy currents in lower portions of the upper separation chamber. Particularly, in lower portions of inclined plates within the upper separation chamber, turbulent flow may exist. Said turbulent flow may negatively affect flow, reduce effectiveness, and / or increase wear near bottom portions of inclined plates and lamellae.

[0010] The embodiments of the present invention seek to overcome at least one, some or all of the aforementioned problems associated with conventional separators. OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION

[0011] According to some embodiments, it is desired to provide a particle separator device capable of processing large productivities without limitation. Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 20 / 54 4 / 30

[0012] According to some embodiments, it is desirable to provide a particle separator cover for continuous online washing of large particles, while the appliance is still in operation, in order to reduce machine downtime, without limitation.

[0013] According to some embodiments, it is desirable to provide a particle separator with an increased flow area within the upper separation chamber, without limitation.

[0014] According to some embodiments, it is desired to provide a particle separator that separates and removes the large feeding apparatus and protective apparatus from the upper separation chamber to free up space therein for enhanced upward flow.

[0015] According to some embodiments, it is desired to provide a particle separator that has reduced turbulence and smoother, more laminar flow between and around the lamellae within the upper separation chamber, without limitation.

[0016] According to some embodiments, it is desired to provide a particle separator that includes means for easily removing and replacing worn or broken lamella plates, without limitation.

[0017] These and other objectives of the present invention will be apparent from the drawings and description in this document. Although it is believed that each objective of the invention has been achieved by at least one embodiment of the invention, there is not necessarily a single embodiment of the invention that achieves all the objectives of the invention. Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, p. 21 / 54 5 / 30 BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0018] A fluidized bed separator (1) may comprise a body wall (10) and a fluidizing section (7) having at least one fluidizing fluid inlet (9) for introducing fluidizing fluid into a fluidizing fluid distribution chamber (25). In some embodiments, the fluidizing fluid may comprise a liquid for classifying particles by size and / or density. In some embodiments, the fluidizing fluid may comprise a liquid (including a flotation reagent) and / or a gas, such as air, for coarse particle flotation and separating particles by mineralogy.

[0019] The fluidizing section (7) may comprise an upper panel fitted with a plurality of fluidizing outlets (26). The fluidized bed separator (1) may further comprise a main separation chamber (6) above the fluidizing section (7) for establishing a fluidized bed within the main separation chamber (6) by virtue of the fluidizing fluid exiting the fluidizing fluid distribution chamber (25) through the fluidizing outlets (26) and entering the main separation chamber (6). The fluidized bed separator (1) may further comprise an upper separation chamber (19) having a plurality of inclined plates (17), transverse plates (39) and channels (18) defined between the inclined plates (17) and the transverse plates (39). One or more troughs (15) may be provided within the upper separation chamber (19) and said troughs (15) may feed a collection basin (21). Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 22 / 54 6 / 30

[0020] The fluidized bed separator (1) can be defined by comprising a feed section (4) located between the upper separation chamber (19) and the main separation chamber (6). The feed section (4) may comprise one or more feed pipes (11). The one or more feed pipes (11) may extend horizontally and transversely with respect to the body wall (10). For example, the one or more feed pipes (11) may be positioned completely and totally below the inclined plates (17) (i.e., so that the one or more feed pipes (11) are not located within the upper separation chamber (19).

[0021] In some embodiments, one or more feed pipes (11) may comprise at least one reducer (22). For example, one or more feed pipes (11) may reduce in diameter at a single location or at a plurality of locations within the feed section (4).

[0022] In some embodiments, one or more feed pipes (11) may comprise a plurality of outlets (23) for introducing fluid feed paste into the feed section (4). As shown, in some embodiments, the outlets (23) may be arranged to introduce fluid feed paste into the feed section (4) in a generally horizontal direction, which is generally transverse to a vertical geometric axis of the fluidized bed separator (1). In other words, one or more feed pipes (11) may be configured to distribute fluid feed paste into and through the Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 23 / 54 7 / 30 feed section (4) (e.g., radially outwards) towards the body wall (10) and the inner perimeter of the feed section (4), instead of vertically downwards within the upper separation chamber (19), as conventionally practiced.

[0023] It should be understood that the outlets (23) may, in some embodiments, be arranged to extend at various angles, ranging from substantially horizontal or slightly outward horizontal to even vertically upward, without limitation. For example, the outlets (23) of a feed pipe (11) may extend at an angle between about minus 30 degrees from horizontal (i.e., laterally outward and slightly downward) to vertically upward (i.e., plus 90 degrees from horizontal and parallel to the vertical geometric axis of the fluidized bed separator 1), without limitation. For certain applications, it may be desirable to configure outlets (23) so that they are arranged and oriented to introduce fluid feed slurry into the feed section (4), such that the fluid feed slurry is introduced with a vertically upward velocity component.While the outlets (23) are all shown to be oriented in a truly horizontal manner, slight angular variations from true horizontal are provided for as being within the scope of the invention.

[0024] The outlets (23) provided to a feed pipe(s) (11) may be oriented at different angles relative to each other or may all extend in the same angular orientation as shown. Furthermore, while more than one outlet (23) may be shown Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 24 / 54 8 / 30 directly opposite each other at a certain location along a feed pipe (11), it is provided that the outlets (23) may be staggered so that no more than one outlet (23) is provided at the same location along the feed pipe (11). It is further provided that the outlets (23) that are located at the same location along the feed pipe (11) may not necessarily be diametrically opposite, as shown. Furthermore, it is contemplated that more than two outlets (23) may be located at any one location along the feed pipe (11). Additionally, while the outlets (23) are shown to extend orthogonally from the feed pipes (11) at a correct angle, in alternative arrangements, the outlets (23) may extend from the feed pipes (11) at angles that are not perpendicular to them.

[0025] In some embodiments, a large external protective device (3) that is separate from and external to the body wall (10) may be provided to the fluidized bed separator (1). In other words, unlike conventional separators, the upper separation chamber (19) of the fluidized bed separator (1) may be devoid of the large protective device.

[0026] The large external protective device (3) can be provided on either side of the upper separation chamber (19), but is shown in the attached figures as being located adjacent to the collection basin (21). As will be described hereafter in this document, the end caps of the feed pipe (36) can be removed to position the large protective device. Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 25 / 54 9 / 30 external (3) on an opposite side of the separation chamber (19) than is shown. In such embodiment, the end caps of the feed pipe (36) can be changed to the diametrically opposite side of the fluidized bed separator (1) and the vent pipes (14) can be lengthened to span the width of the upper separation chamber (19); or the breathing tubes (14) can be adapted to communicate fluidly with another portion of the upper separation chamber (19) such as the channels (18), without limitation.

[0027] The large external protection device (3) may comprise a sieve box (12), an inlet (13) for the sieve box (12), one or more sieves (38) (for example, two inclined sieves inside the sieve box), a large conductor (30) (for example, defined by two conductor side panels (31), a conductor top plate (47) and a conductor end plate (32)). A large removal pipe (33) may communicate with the large conductor (30) and serve to remove large particles and prevent large particles from entering the one or more feed pipes (11).

[0028] In some embodiments, the large external protection device (3) may include a main chamber (41) above one or more sieves (38) and above the large conductor (30). The large external protection device (3) may also comprise a size-regulated chamber (42) below one or more sieves (38) and below the large conductor (30). The main chamber (41) and the size-regulated chamber (42) may be defined by the sieve box (12).

[0029] In some modalities, the device of Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 26 / 54 10 / 30 large external protection (3) may include a baffle (40) adjacent to a lower floor (43) of the sieve box (12) to separate and distribute fluid paste equally to two feed pipes (11). As will be appreciated from the drawings, the lower portion of the regulated size chamber (42) of the large external protection apparatus (3) may be defined by a lower floor (43) of the sieve box (12) and / or a baffle (40).

[0030] In some embodiments, the large external protective device (3) may additionally include one or more removable top access panels (37) which may cover openings in the screen box (12). The one or more removable top access panels (37), if installed, may facilitate the cleaning or maintenance of the screen box (12), the large channel (30) and / or one or more screens (38), without limitation.

[0031] In some embodiments, the large external protection device (3) may include a purge valve (45) and a purge valve actuator (44) for removing large material from the large removal pipe (33).

[0032] In some embodiments, the large external protective device (3) may include at least one purge fluid inlet (34, 46) for clearing solids from the large channel (30) and / or for clearing solids from the large removal pipe (33), without limitation. In some embodiments, the large external protective device (3) may include at least one breather pipe (14) that fluidly communicates with the collection basin (21) within the upper separation chamber (19). However, for embodiments in which the large external protective device (3) is mounted on the other Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 27 / 54 11 / 30 side of the upper separation chamber (19) as shown, at least one breathing tube (14) can communicate fluidly with one or more portions of the upper separation chamber (19), such as with the channels (18), without limitation.

[0033] In some embodiments, the fluidized bed separator (1) may comprise a tapered body section (5) below the feed section (4) and above the main separation chamber (6). The tapered body section (5) may increase the relative cross-sectional area of ​​the feed section (4) and / or the upper separation chamber (19) with respect to the cross-sectional area of ​​the main separation chamber (6) and the fluidizing section (7), without limitation. In this respect, more channels (18) may be provided in the upper separation chamber (19) to increase the classification efficiency.

[0034] In some embodiments, at least one lamella cartridge (49) may be disposed in each of said channels (18) defined between the inclined plates (17) and the transverse plates (39). The at least one lamella cartridge (49) may comprise a plurality of uniformly spaced parallel lamella plates (51). The at least one lamella cartridge (49) may, as shown in Figure 11, have a height (h), a width (w) and a thickness (t). Said dimensions of the lamella cartridge (49) are preferably complementary to the size and / or shape of the channels (18) between the inclined plates (17) and the transverse plates (39).

[0035] In some embodiments, the lamella plates (51) may be metallic and may be joined together by welding into a welded portion (52). Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 28 / 54 12 / 30

[0036] In some embodiments, at least one lamella cartridge (49) may comprise an angled section (50), without limitation. In some embodiments, at least one lamella cartridge (49) may comprise a removal or installation feature (53), without limitation.

[0037] In some embodiments, the fluidized bed separator (1) may comprise at least one separator plate (54, 55) in at least one of the channels (18). In some embodiments, each channel (18) may comprise at least one separator plate (54, 55). The at least one separator plate (54, 55) may be configured to prevent sanding in said at least one of the channels (18). The at least one separator plate (54, 55) may also or alternatively be configured to facilitate the removal of a lamella cartridge (49) from a channel (18) by creating an empty space after its removal from the channel (18).

[0038] In some embodiments, at least one separating plate (54, 55) may comprise a polymeric material (for example, a plastic, rigid rubber or polymer, such as polyurethane or polyethylene). For example, the separating plates (54, 55) described herein may comprise a low-density or high-density polyethylene material without limitation. It is further provided that at least one separating plate (54, 55) may comprise materials such as cements or other metallic substrates, for example, stainless steel, without limitation.

[0039] In some embodiments, a first separating plate (54) and a second separating plate (55) may be inserted into one of said channels (18), as Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 29 / 54 13 / 30 suggested in Figures 14 to 17. In some embodiments, the first separating plate (54) and the second separating plate (55) may contact each other by means of their complementary angular contiguous surfaces (59). In some embodiments, the second separating plate (55) may be configured in an L-shape. For example, the second separating plate (55) may comprise a mounting-type seat (60) on which the first separating plate (54) rests, without limitation. In some embodiments, a vertically oriented flow introduction flap (24) may be provided at the bottom of one, some or all of the inclined plates (17). In preferred embodiments, each inclined plate (17) is provided with its own vertically oriented flow introduction flap (24).

[0040] The fluidized bed separator (1) may comprise a support frame (8) that may be used for transport and assembly and optionally removed after installation in a plant or commissioning. However, the support frame (8) or portions thereof may remain installed to support portions of the fluidized bed separator (1), without limitation.

[0041] A method for assembling a fluidized bed separator (1) is further disclosed. The method may comprise the step of inserting one or more lamella cartridges (49) into one or more of the channels (18). In this respect, the lamellae can be quickly and easily installed and removed from the channels (18) of the upper separation chamber (19) and the tolerances, spacing and parallel capability between the lamellae can be more tightly controlled. In some embodiments, the method may comprise the step of Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 30 / 54 14 / 30 insert one or more separation plates (54, 55) into one or more of the channels (18). In some embodiments, the method may comprise the step of inserting one or more feed pipes (11) into the feed section (4) below the upper separation chamber (19) and below the inclined plates (17), but above the fluidizing section (7).

[0042] A method for operating a fluidized bed separator (1) may comprise the step of removing large material from the screen box (12), the large channel (30) and / or the large removal pipe (33) by means of the purge valve (45). The same may be accomplished by periodically activating the purge valve actuator (44). The method may further comprise the step of introducing purge fluid through a first (34) and / or second (46) purge fluid inlet to assist in removing large material from the screen box (12), the large channel (30) and / or the large removal pipe (33), without limitation. DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] To complement the description given and for the purpose of assisting a better understanding of the features of the invention, a set of drawings illustrating a preferred, non-limiting embodiment of a separator 1 and its components is attached to this descriptive report as an integral part thereof, in which the following is represented in an illustrative and non-limiting manner. It should be understood that similar reference numerals used in the drawings may identify similar components.

[0044] Figure 1 shows a non-limiting illustrative embodiment of a bed separator. Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 31 / 54 15 / 30 fluidized bed separator 1, according to the invention. For clarity, the top cover of the fluidized bed separator 1 is not shown in the figures.

[0045] Figure 2 is a cutaway view of the fluidized bed separator 1 shown in Figure 1.

[0046] Figure 3 shows a close-up view of Figure 2 which shows more clearly the vertically oriented flow introduction tabs 24 and reductions 22 and outlets 23 of the feed pipes 11.

[0047] Figure 4 shows another isometric view of a fluidized bed separator 1 from Figure 1.

[0048] Figure 5 is a first, cutaway view of Figure 4.

[0049] Figure 6 is a second cutaway view of Figure 4 that is perpendicular to the view shown in Figure 5.

[0050] Figure 7 is another cutaway view of the fluidized bed separator 1 shown in Figure 1.

[0051] Figures 8 to 10 show various cutaway views of the large external protective apparatus 3 of the fluidized bed separator 1 shown in Figures 1 to 7.

[0052] Figures 11 to 13 show various embodiments of a lamella cartridge 49, according to non-limiting exemplary embodiments.

[0053] Figure 14 shows an exemplary embodiment of the separation plates 54, 55 which can be installed in the channels 18 to prevent sanding and facilitate the removal of coverslip cartridges 49 from the channels 18 in the upper separation chamber 19.

[0054] Figures 15 to 17 illustrate various views Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, p. 32 / 54 16 / 30 of the separation plates 54, 55 that are installed within the channels 18 of an upper separation chamber 19, according to a non-limiting embodiment.

[0055] The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the drawings, together with exemplary embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] A fluidized bed separator 1 configured to classify or separate solids by particle size and / or density is disclosed and shown in Figures 1 to 17.

[0057] It should be understood that the fluidized bed separator 1 described in this document can also be advantageously configured to separate solids by mineralogy and therefore in coarse flotation processes. This can be achieved by introducing a selectively mineral-dependent binding reagent to make certain solids within the fluidized feed slurry hydrophobic or hydrophilic and introducing a gas, such as air, into one or more fluidizing fluid inlets 9, fluidizing fluid distribution chamber 25, fluidizing outlet(s) 26, main separation chamber 6, feed pipe(s) 11, inlet 13, large external protection device 3, or a combination thereof, without limitation. It should further be understood that other equivalent forms of pre-contact gas, such as air, wherein the fluidized feed slurry is introduced into the fluidized bed separator 1, are provided for.In this respect, the target minerals are within the fluid paste feed to the fluidized bed separator. Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 33 / 54 17 / 30 can be separated from the group and removed via the collection basin 21 (e.g., during normal coarse flotation) or removed from the lower efflux pipe 27 (e.g., during a reverse coarse flotation process).

[0058] The fluidized bed separator 1 may comprise an upper end 2 and a lower end 20 and an imaginary vertical geometric axis extending from the upper end 2 to the lower end 20. The fluidized bed separator 1 may have a support frame 8 below the fluidizing section 7. The support frame 8 may be used for transport and assembly and may optionally be removed after installation and a plant or commissioning. However, the same (or portions thereof) may be left in place to support the fluidized bed separator 1, without limitation.

[0059] The fluidizing section 7 may comprise at least one fluidizing fluid inlet 9 communicating with a fluidizing fluid distribution chamber 25. Preferably, two (or more) fluidizing fluid inlets 9 may be used, without limitation.

[0060] The fluidization fluid inlets 9 can be configured to receive a liquid and / or a gas, such as process water and / or compressed air.

[0061] For classification purposes, the fluidization fluid inlets 9 of the fluidized bed separator 1 can be configured to receive liquids.

[0062] For the use of a fluidized bed separator 1 as a coarse particle flotation unit, dedicated fluidizing fluid inlets 9 can be provided for separate introduction. Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 34 / 54 18 / 30 gas or liquid in the fluidizing fluid distribution chamber 25, without limitation. In such embodiments, one or more fluidizing fluid inlets 9 may be configured as an air degasser, without limitation. Alternatively, one or more fluidizing fluid inlets 9 may be configured to properly entertain a gas within a liquid. A fluidizing fluid inlet 9 may be configured to apply a gas and a liquid to the fluidizing fluid distribution chamber 25, without limitation.

[0063] Above the fluidizing section 7 is a main separation chamber 6. The fluidizing fluid distribution chamber 25 may be separated from the main separation chamber 6 by a panel comprising a plurality of fluidizing outlets 26. The fluidizing outlets 26 may comprise openings, nozzles, degassers, a combination thereof, or other similar fluid transfer devices for transferring fluidizing fluid from the fluidizing fluid distribution chamber 25 to the main separation chamber 6.

[0064] Above the main separation chamber 6 is a tapered body section 5 in which a body wall 10 of the fluidized bed separator 1 rises radially outward toward its upper end. While not expressly shown, for some applications, said tapered body section 5 may alternatively rise radially inward, so that its upper end is narrower than its lower end, without limitation. Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 35 / 54 19 / 30

[0065] Above the tapered body section 5 is a feed section 4 comprising one or more horizontally arranged feed pipes 11. The feed pipes 11 receive fluid paste from a large external protective apparatus 3 and apply it to the feed section 4 of the fluidized bed separation 1. The feed pipes 11 may be closed at their ends by the body wall 10 or by feed pipe end caps 36, as shown, without limitation. The end caps 36 may be removable for access and cleaning of the interiors of the feed pipes 11.

[0066] As shown, each feed pipe 11 may comprise one or more reductions 22 which reduce the overall cross-section thereof. The reductions 22 help to ensure a regular flow distribution through the outlets 23 provided to the feed pipes 11. The outlets 23 differ from traditional feed channels in that they direct the incoming fluid paste horizontally through (and / or into and up) the fluidized bed separator 1 below the inclined plates 17, rather than downwards between the inclined plates 17. The outlets 23 may be arranged at angles other than true horizontal and therefore may be configured to introduce fluid paste into the feed section 4 with some downward and / or upward velocity component.As described previously, the outlets 23 can be oriented vertically upwards to direct the flow of fluid paste towards the upper separation chamber 19 above the feed section 4, without limitation. There may be one or a plurality of feed pipes 11 in the section. Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 36 / 54 20 / 30 feeding 4. For example, two are shown in the represented mode, without limitation.

[0067] Above the feed section 4 is an upper separation chamber 19 comprising one or more troughs 15 that feed a collection basin 21. The collection basin 21 is equipped with a collection basin outlet 35. The trough (or troughs) 15 is configured with wires that capture the efflux containing smaller particles and / or density and transport them to the collection basin 21. On the other hand, a lower efflux pipe 27 located at the bottom of the fluidized bed separator 1 transports larger particles and / or density from the main separation chamber 6.

[0068] The bottom efflux pipe 27 can be used to remove large particles when the fluidized bed separator 1 is used as a classifying device. If the fluidized bed separator 1 is used as a coarse particle flotation unit, the bottom efflux pipe 27 can be used to remove a target mineral or group (depending on when normal and reverse flotation processes are used). The bottom efflux pipe 27 can be fitted with a clamp valve or plug valve that has an additional seat to limit the rate of underflow of material exiting the fluidized bed separator 1 through the bottom efflux pipe 27.

[0069] The upper separation chamber 19 may further comprise a number of inclined plates 17 and transverse plates 39 that generally run orthogonally to the inclined plates 17, as shown, thus forming inclined channels 18 between them. The channels 18 Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 37 / 54 21 / 30 are each configured to allow the upward passage of fluid and solids. Channels 18 are each configured to receive one or more lamella cartridges 49 between them. To reduce turbulence, eddy current formation, and wear on the bottom of the inclined plates 17, one or more vertically oriented flow introduction flaps 24 may extend vertically downward from the inclined plates 17, as shown, to form an obtuse angle with the respective inclined plates. Each flap 24 may assist in directing the fluid flow in the feed section 4 upward into a nearby channel 18 before the flow direction changes and the fluid enters between the lamella plates 51 within the nearby channel 18. By providing a flap 24 to an inclined plate 17, the wear to the same inclined plate 17 may be reduced and the overall effectiveness of the fluidized bed separator 1 may be increased, without limitation. Furthermore, the flaps may assist in conditioning the flow to the channels (18) by balancing the flows through them.

[0070] Each lamella cartridge 49 may comprise a number of lamella plates 51 which are stacked to be somewhat parallel and evenly spaced from each other.

[0071] The lamella plates 51 can be joined together using any mechanical means known in the art, for example, by fasteners (e.g., screws, nuts and spacers) or by a welded portion 52 (e.g., comprising welds) as shown. The lamella plates 51 are preferably made of metallic material, but it is conceivable that the same could be Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 38 / 54 22 / 30 made of other materials. Lamellar plates 51 may optionally be coated or fitted with another material for wear resistance and / or to alter their friction characteristics. For example, lamellar plates 51 may be dipped in a rubber or urethane coating or may be coated or fitted with a low-friction substance such as diamond-like carbon (DLC), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or the like, without limitation.

[0072] The cartridges 49 may include one or more removal or installation features 53, such as a hole for engaging a hook or cable to lower and raise the cartridge 49 in or from its respective channel 18 within the upper separation chamber 19. Furthermore, due to the inclined geometry of the channels 18, the lamella cartridges 49 may comprise an angled section 50 without limitation. Each lamella cartridge 49 may comprise a height h, a width we and a thickness t, which is preferably complementary to a size and / or geometry of the channels 18 within the upper separation chamber 19.

[0073] In some embodiments, some or all of the channels 18 may comprise a separator plate assembly 16 or mounting area for the insertion of one or more separator plates 45, 55. For example, as shown in Figures 14 to 17, a first separator plate 54 and a second separator plate 55 may be accommodated within a channel 18 without limitation. As with the lamella cartridges 49, each separator plate 54, 55 may also be equipped with one or more removal or installation features 56, such Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, page 39 / 54 23 / 30 as a hole for attaching a hook or cable for lowering and raising a separator plate 54, 55 in or from its respective channel 18 within the upper separator chamber 19.

[0074] The parting plates 54, 55 may each have a top end 57 and a bottom end 58. As shown in the exemplary and non-limiting embodiment found in the drawings, a first 54 and a second 55 parting plates may each have cross-complementary angular contiguity surface (or cross-complementary angular contiguity surfaces) 59. One of the parting plates (e.g., the second parting plate 55) may comprise an L-shape and a mounting-type seat 60. The mounting-type seat 60 may be configured to support the other parting plate (e.g., first supporting parting plate 54).

[0075] The separation plates 54, 55 are preferably made of a polymeric material (e.g., polyurethane or polyethylene, such as a low-density LOPE, high-density polyethylene HOPE, or an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene UHMWPE material) and are used to fill voids where sanding and accumulation of solids normally occur. In this respect, when the separation plates 54, 55 are removed, a void within a channel 18 is created, which provides sufficient clarity for easy and low-friction removal (or insertion) of the lamella cartridges 49 within the same channel 18.

[0076] Outside the body wall 10 and laterally Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, pages 40 / 54 24 / 30 adjacent to the upper separation chamber 19, a large external protective device 3 may be provided. The large external protective device 3 may comprise a sieve box 12 having an upper inlet 13 for receiving fluid paste feed. A number of upper access panels 37, which are preferably removable, may be provided to the sides or top of the sieve box 12, as shown. The panels 37 may be removed to perform routine conservation, maintenance and / or cleaning functions, without limitation.

[0077] The fluid paste enters inlet 13 and exits a main chamber 41 of the sieve box 12, where it settles. One or more horizontally arranged plates or sheets 28 may be provided within the main chamber 41 to deflect the flow and / or reduce the feed velocity at inlet 13. Below the main chamber 41 is a chamber of regulated size 42.

[0078] The main chamber 41 is separated from the regulated size chamber 42 by one or more sieves 38 and a large conduit 30. As shown, the one or more sieves 38 may comprise a plurality of inclined sieves 38 that direct large material (i.e., sieve efflux) to the large conduit 30 and finally out of a large removal pipe 33. Controlled removal of large material from the large conduit 30 and removal pipe 33 may be achieved through the use of a purge valve 45 (e.g., knife gate or ball valve) actuated by means of a purge valve actuator 44 (e.g., a solenoid, a fluid cylinder, or the like).

[0079] The large conductor 30 can extend from Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, pp. 41 / 54 25 / 30 cross-section through a vertical cross-section of the sieve box 12, as shown, and may protrude from the sieve box 12, as shown. The large conductor 30 may be defined by conductor side panels 31, a conductor end plate 32, a conductor top plate 47 (e.g., if it protrudes from the sieve box 12), and a sloped floor 29. In some embodiments, the sloped floor 29 of the large conductor 30 may be a smooth solid surface or may comprise a secondary sieve, without limitation. The sieves 38 are designed to limit the size of material received from the inlet 13 within the size-regulated chamber 42. The feed pipe (or feed pipes) 11 is operationally connected and in fluid communication with the size-regulated chamber 42, and in this respect, particles exceeding a mesh size associated with the sieves 38 will be prevented from entering the feed section 4.A deflector 40 can be provided to a lower floor 43 of the sieve box 12, for example, between the feed pipes 11, as shown, to evenly divide and / or distribute paste material from fluid paste within the regulated size chamber 42 to the feed pipes 11 feeding the feed section 4. The deflector 40 can reduce occurrences of sanding around the inlet to the feed pipes 11, without limitation.

[0080] The large external protective device 3 may comprise one or more side mounts 48 to support it. The frame or structure (not shown) may be mounted on the mounts 48 to support the large external protective device 3. The device may also include a Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, pages 42 / 54 26 / 30 or more breather pipes 14 in the form of pipes extending from upper portions of the sieve box 12. One or more breather pipes 14 may communicate fluidly with the collection basin 21 to allow air to escape from the system and reduce the amount of uncontrolled air within the fluidized bed separator 1 under normal operating conditions. The breather pipes 14 may serve as a safety device to prevent portions of the fluidized bed separator 1 from becoming overpressurized and may additionally serve to provide a drive head for the large external protective device 3 which is filled with material during operation.

[0081] Periodic online cleaning / removal of sanding from the large external protective device 3 can be accomplished by energizing the purge valve actuator 44 to open the purge valve 45. The purge fluid can be supplied to a first purge fluid inlet 34 and / or a second purge fluid inlet 46 in / around the large conductor 30 or large removal pipe 33.

[0082] It should be recognized that the specific features, function, process steps and potential benefits shown and described in detail herein are purely illustrative in nature and should not limit the spirit and / or scope of the invention.

[0083] For example, while not shown for the sake of clarity, it should be understood that the upper fluidization chamber 19 may comprise a cover, top or lid to maintain a fluidized bed separator system 1 in a closed environment.

[0084] Furthermore, although the invention is Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, pp. 43 / 54 27 / 30 described in terms of particular modalities and applications, a common skill element in the technique, in light of said teachings, can generate additional modalities and modifications without departing from the spirit of the claimed invention.

[0085] Consequently, it should be understood that the drawings and descriptions in this document are given by way of example to facilitate understanding of the invention and should not be construed to limit the scope thereof. LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS. Fluidized bed separator (e.g., a particle size and / or density classifier or a coarse particle flotation unit) Upper extremity Large outdoor protective device Food section Tapered body section Main separation chamber (e.g., a dense, autogenous medium separation chamber) Fluidizing section (e.g., a fluidized bed separator section) Support frame Fluidizing fluid inlet (or fluidizing fluid inlets) Body wall Feed pipe (or feed pipes) Sieve box Prohibited Breather pipe (or breather pipes) (for example, an air purge pipe) Gutter (or gutters) Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, pages 44 / 54 28 / 30 Separator plate assembly (or separator plate assemblies) Slanted plate (or slanted plates) Channel (or channels) Upper separation chamber (e.g., lamella establisher) Lower extremity Collection basin Reduction (or reductions) Exit (or exits) (for example, they can generally be arranged horizontally, arranged vertically upwards, or arranged at an angle between 30 degrees below horizontal and vertically upwards / 90 degrees below horizontal) Vertically oriented flow introduction tab (or vertically oriented flow introduction tabs) Fluidization fluid distribution chamber Fluidization outlet (or fluidization outlets) Bottom drain pipe (e.g., for removing large material) Horizontally arranged plate (or plates arranged horizontally) or sheet (or sheets) Sloping floor (e.g., solid or secondary screen) Large driver Driver's side panel (or driver's side panels) Conductor end plate Large removal pipe Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, pages 45 / 54 29 / 30 First purge fluid inlet Collection basin outlet Feed pipe end cap (or feed pipe end caps) Top access panel (e.g., removable) One or more sieves (e.g., slanted sieves) Cross plate (or cross plates) Deflector (or deflectors) Main chamber Adjustable size chamber Bottom floor of the sieve box Purge valve actuator (e.g., solenoid, fluid cylinder) Purge valve (e.g., knife gate) Second purge fluid inlet Driver top plate Side mount (or side mounts) Lamel cartridge (or lamella cartridges) Angular section Lamellar plate() Welded portion (e.g., one or more welds) Removal or installation feature First separator plate Second separator plate Removal / installation feature(s) Top end of the separator plate (or separator plates) Lower end of the separator plate (or Petition 870220017290, dated 25 / 02 / 2022, pages 46 / 54 30 / 30 separator plates) Angular contiguity surfaces (angular contiguity surfaces) Mounting type seat (or h Lamel cartridge height w Lamel cartridge width t Lamel cartridge thickness

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Fluidized bed separator (1) comprising a body wall (10) defining: a fluidizing section (7) having a fluidizing fluid distribution chamber (25) and at least one fluidizing fluid inlet (9) for introducing fluidizing fluid into the fluidizing fluid distribution chamber (25), wherein the fluidizing section (7) comprises an upper panel fitted with a plurality of fluidizing outlets (26); a main separation chamber (6) above the fluidizing section (7) for establishing a fluidized bed within the main separation chamber (6) by virtue of the fluidizing fluid exiting the fluidizing fluid distribution chamber (25) through the fluidizing outlets (26) and entering the main separation chamber (6);and an upper separation chamber (19) above the main separation chamber (6) comprising a plurality of inclined plates (17), transverse plates (39), channels (18) defined between the inclined plates (17) and the transverse plates (39); and troughs (15) feeding a collection basin (21); wherein the fluidized bed separator (1) is further characterized by comprising a feed section (4) between the upper separation chamber (19) and the main separation chamber (6), the feed section (4) comprising one or more feed pipes (11) extending horizontally and transversely through the body wall (10); wherein the one or more feed pipes (11) are positioned completely and entirely below the inclined plates (17);wherein one or more feed pipes (11) comprise a plurality of outlets (23) for Petition 870230003206, dated 12 / 01 / 2023, page 7 / 13 2 / 4 to introduce fluid feed paste into the feed section (4).; 2. Fluidized bed separator (1), according to claim 1, characterized in that one or more feed pipes (11) comprise at least one reduction (22), wherein the one or more feed pipes (11) reduce in diameter within the feed section (4).

3. Fluidized bed separator (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by further comprising a large external protective apparatus (3) that is separate from and external to the body wall (10); wherein the large external protective apparatus (3) comprises a sieve box (12), an inlet (13), one or more sieves (38), a large conductor (30) and a large removal pipe (33) that communicates with the large conductor (30) to remove large particles and prevent large particles from entering the one or more feed pipes (11).

4. Fluidized bed separator (1), according to claim 3, characterized in that the large external protective apparatus (3) includes a main chamber (41) above one or more sieves (38) and above the large conductor (30) and a chamber of regulated size (42) below one or more sieves (38) and below the large conductor (30).

5. Fluidized bed separator (1), according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the large external protective apparatus (3) includes a deflector (40) adjacent to a lower floor (43) of the sieve box (12) to share and distribute fluid paste uniformly through the two feed pipes (11). Petition 870230003206, dated 12 / 01 / 2023, page 8 / 13 3 / 4 6. Fluidized bed separator (1), according to any one of claims 3-5, characterized in that the large external protective apparatus (3) additionally includes one or more removable top access panels (37) covering openings in the screen box (12); wherein the one or more removable top access panels (37) facilitate the cleaning or use of the screen box (12), the large channel (30) and / or one or more screens (38).

7. Fluidized bed separator (1), according to any one of claims 3-6, characterized in that the large external protective apparatus (3) additionally includes a purge valve (45) and purge valve actuator (44) for removing large material from the large removal pipe (33).

8. Fluidized bed separator (1), according to any one of claims 3-7, characterized in that the large external protective apparatus (3) additionally includes at least one purge fluid inlet (34, 46) for washing solids from the large channel (30) and / or the large removal pipe (33).

9. Fluidized bed separator (1), according to any one of claims 3-8, characterized in that the large external protective apparatus (3) additionally includes at least one breather pipe (14) that fluidly communicates with the collection basin (21) or channels (18) of the upper separation chamber (19).

10. Fluidized bed separator (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by further comprising a tapered body section (5) below the feed section (4) and above the main separation chamber (6).

11. Fluidized bed separator (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a vertically oriented flow introduction flap (24) is provided at the bottom of some or all of the inclined plates (17).

12. Method of operation of a fluidized bed separator (1), as defined in any one of claims 3-11, characterized by comprising the step of removing large material from the screen box (12), large channel (30) and / or large removal pipe (33) through the purge valve (45) by periodic activation of the purge valve actuator (44).

13. Method according to claim 12, characterized by further comprising the step of introducing purge fluid through a first (34) and / or second (46) purge fluid inlets to assist in removing large material from the screen box (12), large channel (30) and / or large removal pipe (33).

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