Apparatus and method for producing a fluidized bed

Abstract

An apparatus (1) is provided for producing a fluidized bed (2) comprising a suspension of high-density and low-density particles formed within a vessel (5) of a particle separator (3). The apparatus (1) has a plurality of rakes (10), each rotatably mounted within the vessel (5). Each rake (10) has one or more radially extending rake arms (20). Each rake arm (20) has a set of vanes (30) extending from the rake arm to cut through the suspension in the fluidized bed (2). The vane assembly (30) may include a plurality of interconnected frame members (35) or one or more separate vanes (48) extending into the fluidized bed, wherein each vane comprises a perforated rod, bar, flat element, blade, plate, or plate-like structure.