Centrifuges and related systems and methods

Abstract

This invention relates to interrupting the flow of a product stream in a centrifuge to help maintain the contents of the stream in a relatively uniform manner. For example, the centrifuge may include at least one discrete flow interference member located in the product stream path to interrupt the flow of the product stream.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This international patent application claims the benefit of a jointly owned provisional application, serial number 62 / 970,902, filed on February 6, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a centrifuge for separating at least one feed stream into at least two product streams, as well as related methods and systems. Background Technology

[0004] There is a persistent need for improved centrifuges, as well as related methods and systems, for separating at least one feed stream into at least two product streams. For example, there is a persistent need to provide one or more product streams with improved uniformity, particularly product streams containing suspended solids. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention includes embodiments of a centrifuge having a central axis of rotation, wherein the centrifuge comprises:

[0006] a) The rotating drum section, which includes:

[0007] i) at least one feed inlet and at least one first product outlet and a second product outlet;

[0008] ii) A drum having an inner surface defining an internal space, wherein at least one feed inlet and at least two product outlets are in fluid communication with the internal space;

[0009] b) A feed flow path that is in fluid communication with at least one feed inlet and the internal space of the drum; and

[0010] c) Two or more product flow paths, wherein the two or more product flow paths include at least:

[0011] i) The first product logistics path; and

[0012] ii) A second product flow path, wherein the second product flow path has an inlet in an internal space, wherein the second product flow path includes a space between a first radially extending surface and a second radially extending surface, and wherein at least one of the first radially extending surface and the second radially extending surface includes at least one discrete flow interference member located in the second product flow path to interrupt the flow of the second product flow, wherein the first product flow path is located between the second product flow path and the central axis of rotation.

[0013] The present invention includes embodiments of a method for separating at least one feed stream into at least a first product stream and a second product stream in a centrifuge, wherein the method comprises:

[0014] a) Providing at least one feed stream to the feed stream inlet of a centrifuge, wherein the centrifuge has a central axis of rotation and a drum portion having an inner surface that defines an internal space;

[0015] b) Separating two or more product streams from at least one feed stream within the internal space of a centrifuge, wherein a first product stream flows in a first product stream path of the centrifuge, and a second product stream flows into a second product stream path adjacent to the inner surface of the drum; and

[0016] c) Disrupt the flow of the second product stream in the path of the second product stream. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1A The complete components of the centrifuge system are shown;

[0018] Figure 1B This is a schematic diagram showing a partial cross-sectional view of a centrifuge 100 according to the present invention, the centrifuge being packaged in... Figure 1A The centrifuge assembly 70 shown is within the cover 60 and does not include any discrete flow interference components;

[0019] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1B A schematic diagram of the solid / heavy phase flow path in the centrifuge shown.

[0020] Figure 3 This is an example of... Figure 1B The diagram shows a primary phase separation of the solid from the liquid between two discs in a centrifuge disc stack.

[0021] Figure 4 Examples Figure 2 The centrifuge shown illustrates the secondary phase separation between solids in the solid / heavy phase flow path.

[0022] Figure 5A An example of a split disc according to the present invention having multiple structural spacer ribs and no discrete flow interference members is shown;

[0023] Figure 5B Another example of a split disc according to the invention, having multiple structurally spaced ribs and no discrete flow interference components, is shown.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a centrifuge according to the present invention, which separates a solid stream from a liquid and includes discrete flow interference components;

[0025] Figure 7 A close-up partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a centrifuge according to the invention is shown, which separates a solid stream from a liquid and includes discrete flow interference elements;

[0026] Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 An alternative embodiment of the centrifuge shown is wherein discrete flow interference components are secured using fasteners;

[0027] Figure 9A A partial perspective view of a separated disc including discrete flow interference components according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0028] Figure 9B It shows Figure 9A A perspective view of the discrete flow interference components shown;

[0029] Figure 9C It shows Figure 9A Perspective view of the structural spacer ribs shown;

[0030] Figure 9D It shows Figure 9A A perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the discrete flow interference component shown;

[0031] Figure 9E It shows Figure 9A The perspective view shown includes a structural spacer rib, which includes optional holes that serve as flow paths between the structural spacer ribs.

[0032] Figure 10A A top perspective view of an embodiment of a discrete disc with discrete flow interference components according to the present invention is shown;

[0033] Figure 10B It shows Figure 10A Bottom plan view of the separated disc;

[0034] Figure 10C It shows relative to Figure 10A The top perspective view of the image is rotated 90 degrees around axis 1012.

[0035] Figure 10D It shows Figure 10A Side elevation view of the separated discs;

[0036] Figure 10E It shows relative to Figure 10D The view in the image is a side elevation rotated 90 degrees around axis 1012;

[0037] Figure 10F It shows relative to Figure 10EThe view in the image is a side elevation rotated 90 degrees around axis 1012;

[0038] Figure 10G It shows Figure 10A Bottom perspective view of the separated discs;

[0039] Figure 10H It shows Figure 10A Top plan view of the separated discs;

[0040] Figure 10I It shows relative to Figure 10G The bottom perspective view of the view in the image is rotated 90 degrees around axis 1012; and

[0041] Figure 11 The percentage of solids content is shown based on the volume of each of the second product streams 3 produced in the following examples.

[0042] Note that the same reference numerals used in the accompanying drawings denote the same features. Detailed Implementation

[0043] This invention relates to a centrifuge (separator) for separating a feed stream into at least two product streams and related methods. The centrifuge can separate a feed stream into two or more product streams based at least on density differences. In some embodiments, the centrifuge can also perform separation based on particle size using a screen component or the like.

[0044] Embodiments of the present invention can be used with a variety of centrifuges. Non-limiting examples include disk stack centrifuges (e.g., two-phase and three-phase disk centrifuges), combined disk decanters, combined disk-filters, or disk-basket centrifuges. Non-limiting examples of disk centrifuges include stacks of flat or truncated conical disks. Non-limiting examples of disk centrifuges are described in U.S. Patent No. 4,784,635 (Bruning et al.), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The illustration shows a non-limiting example of a centrifuge type that can be utilized according to the invention, and it may be referred to as a two-phase disc centrifuge.

[0045] Figure 1A A complete assembly of a non-limiting example of a centrifuge system 50 according to the present invention is shown. As shown, the motor 39 and centrifuge assembly 70 are mounted on the frame 11 in a fixed and stationary manner. The centrifuge assembly 70 includes a centrifuge 100 that surrounds / encloses the centrifuge. Figure 1B The centrifuge lid 60 (shown in the image) is centrifuge 100. Motor 39 is physically connected to centrifuge 100 to make the drum section 101 (… Figure 1B(As shown in the figure) it rotates about its central vertical axis 12. The centrifuge cover 60 remains fixed and stationary while the drum 101 rotates. The centrifuge assembly 70 also includes a feed inlet connection 11, a first product outlet connection 21, a second product outlet connection 31, a solids collector 41, and a discharge chute 42, which will be discussed below.

[0046] Figure 1B The packaging is shown. Figure 1A A partial cross-sectional view of centrifuge 100 within cover 60 of centrifuge assembly 70, illustrating half of centrifuge 100 defined by its central axis 12.

[0047] Using the centrifuge according to the invention, multiple feed streams can be separated into two or more product streams. Non-limiting examples of feed stream sources include those produced in the petroleum industry, agricultural industry (including the dairy industry), biorefining industry, food and beverage industry (e.g., the wine industry, the beer industry, etc.). The feed streams can include solid components and / or liquid components. Solid components can include particles having one or more chemical compositions. Solid components can include particles that are all of the same density or particles with different densities. Solid components can also include particles having substantially the same size or particle size distribution. Solid components can also include particles that are all of the same geometry or particles with different geometries. Solid components can also include particles having substantially the same settling velocity or settling velocity distribution. Liquid components can include one or more chemical compositions that may have the same or different densities. Thus, the feed streams can be separated into two or more product streams, wherein each product stream has a different distribution from the feed stream in one or more aspects of chemical composition, stream bulk density, particle density, particle size, particle geometry, particle settling velocity, solid component content, and liquid component content.

[0048] In the non-restrictive illustrative examples, Figure 1B Feed stream 1 is derived from the whole boil-up distillate after the recovery of biochemicals (e.g., ethanol), which is produced by fermenting mash made from corn flour. For example, feed stream 1 can be whole boil-up distillate or any composition derived from whole boil-up distillate, such as wet cake, thin boil-up distillate; clarified thin boil-up distillate; concentrated thin boil-up distillate; concentrated clarified thin boil-up distillate; modified thin boil-up distillate; oil emulsion; backset; protein (yeast) paste; etc. In some embodiments, feed stream 1 may include a liquid component comprising water, corn oil, protein, acid, minerals, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, feed stream 1 may include a solid component comprising particles containing corn starch, corn fiber, and / or protein (e.g., corn protein and / or yeast protein).

[0049] The centrifuge according to the invention has a rotating drum. The rotating drum can be a single, integral drum, or it can include two or more parts joined together, such as a first (upper) part and a second (bottom) part. Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrative example, centrifuge 100 has a drum portion 101 including a drum bottom 102 sealed to a drum top 103 via a locking ring 104, wherein the drum top 103 is separate from the drum bottom 102. As shown, the drum bottom 102 includes a sliding piston 115. As discussed further below, centrifuge 100 may be referred to as an intermittent deslagging centrifuge, wherein the sliding piston 115 slides intermittently downward within the drum bottom 102 to allow heavy phase material (e.g., concentrated solid particles) to be discharged as discharge stream 4 through discharge channel 40. Alternatively, drum portion 101 may have one or more nozzles (not shown) that allow continuous discharge of heavy phase material. An example of a nozzle for discharging solids from a centrifuge is illustrated in U.S. Patent No. 8,192,342 (8,192,342 (Trager et al.)), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, the drum section (e.g., a single integral drum section) does not allow the discharge flow to exit from the side of the drum section (intermittently or continuously).

[0050] The drum section includes an inner surface that defines an internal space within the drum section, wherein the feed flow can be separated into two or more product flows. Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrative example, the internal space 110 is defined by the inner surface 105 of the drum top 103 and the inner surface 106 of the sliding piston 115. Because the drum bottom 102 has the sliding piston 115 contained therein, the inner surface 106 corresponds to the surface of the sliding piston 115. If the centrifuge 100 is a different type of centrifuge that does not include the sliding piston 115, then the inner surface 107 of the drum bottom 102 will correspond to the inner surface 106.

[0051] The inner surface of the drum may have an inner diameter that gradually increases towards one end (e.g., the bottom) until reaching a maximum value, and then gradually decreases towards the other end (e.g., the top). The maximum inner diameter of the drum is the location where the heaviest phase of the feed stream will tend to concentrate when the centrifuge is operated to separate the feed stream. Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrative example, d B Corresponding to the maximum inner diameter (ID) of the drum section 101, it can also be the maximum ID of the drum top 103. The maximum ID of the drum top 103 can vary over a wide range based on one or more factors, such as the material in the feed stream to be separated and any other components located within the internal space 110 of the drum section 101. In some embodiments, dB It is 150-1500mm or even 250-900mm.

[0052] Various configurations of the drum top 103 can be selected based on one or more factors, such as the material in the feed stream to be separated, any other components located within the internal space 110 of the drum section 101, etc. Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrative example, the top 103 of the drum has sidewall portions 108 and 109 forming an integral interface at dashed line 111. It can be seen that each of sidewall portions 108 and 109 has an inner surface that is continuous with each other, defining an inner surface 105 and extending radially outward in a downward direction relative to axis 12. As discussed in more detail below, during operation of the centrifuge 100, material flows upward along surface 105 and therefore radially inward relative to axis 12. In some embodiments, the inner surface 105 of sidewall portion 109 may have an angle θ of 10 to 60 degrees, or even 15 to 40 degrees, relative to a reference plane 120 parallel to axis 12. B .

[0053] Various drum bottom configurations can be selected based on one or more factors, such as the material in the feed stream to be separated, how the product stream will be discharged, and any other components located within the internal space 110 of the drum section 101. Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrative example, the drum bottom 102 includes a sliding piston 115. For reasons such as functional design, the sliding piston 115 generally conforms to the shape of the inner surface 107 of the drum bottom 102 and has sidewall portions 112 and bottom wall portions 113 forming an integral interface at the dashed line 114. In some embodiments, the inner surface 106 of the sidewall portion 112 may have an angle θ of 10 to 60 degrees, or even 15 to 40 degrees, relative to a reference plane 122 parallel to the axis 12. G As described above, if centrifuge 100 is a different type of centrifuge that does not include the sliding piston 115, then the inner surface 107 of the drum bottom 102 will correspond to the inner surface 106. Therefore, the sidewall portion 112 will be part of the drum bottom 102 and has an angle θ. G .

[0054] The centrifuge drum according to the invention may include at least one feed inlet and at least a first product stream outlet and a second product stream outlet. Optionally, the centrifuge drum according to the invention may include one or more additional inlets and / or outlets. Each of the inlets and outlets is in fluid communication with the internal space of the drum, such that the feed stream can be fed into the internal space of the drum for separation into at least a first product stream and a second product stream. Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrative example, feed stream 1 can be fed into the feed inlet 10 of centrifuge 100, allowing it to pass through the internal space 110 and be separated into a first product stream 2 and a second product stream 3. First product stream 2 can exit centrifuge 100 via first product stream outlet 20, while second product stream 3 can exit centrifuge 100 via second product stream outlet 30. Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrative example, the feed inlet, the first product outlet, and the second product outlet are located at the same end (e.g., top or bottom) of the centrifuge 100. Alternatively, one or more of the feed inlet, the first product outlet, and the second product outlet may be located at an end of the centrifuge opposite to the end (e.g., top or bottom) where other flow openings are located. In some embodiments, the feed stream 1, the first product stream 2, and the second product stream 3 may flow continuously while the centrifuge 100 is operating.

[0055] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrative example, the feed inlet 10 is in fluid communication with and connected to a fixed and stationary inlet connection 11 to allow the feed stream 1 to continuously flow into the centrifuge 100 while the drum 101 is rotating. Furthermore, the first product stream outlet 20 is in fluid communication with and connected to a fixed and stationary first product stream outlet connection 21, and the second product stream outlet 30 is in fluid communication with and connected to a fixed and stationary second product stream outlet connection 31 to allow the first product stream 2 and the second product stream 3 to be continuously discharged from the centrifuge 100 while the drum 101 is rotating.

[0056] The internal space 110 of the drum section 101 may have a variety of one or more components located in the internal space 110 to help split the feed flow into two or more product flows.

[0057] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrative example, centrifuge 100 includes a feed flow pipe 116 positioned along the central axis 12 of centrifuge 100 to define at least a portion of a feed flow path 135. As shown, feed flow 1 exits feed flow pipe 116 at outlet 130 and flows into distributor 117, which helps to distribute and accelerate feed flow 1, causing it to tend to flow radially outward in a uniform manner. Feed flow inlet 10 of centrifuge 100 may correspond to the inlet of feed flow pipe 116.

[0058] The centrifuge according to the invention may include one or more discs to aid in separating the feed stream into at least two phases (e.g., a first product stream and a second product stream) based at least on density differences. For example, in Figure 1A and Figure 1BIn the illustrative example, centrifuge 100 includes a stack of discs 118, as shown, which includes a plurality of discs 140 (schematically shown). The discs are shown schematically for simplicity. In some embodiments, individual discs may be substantially the same as other discs in terms of outer diameter, shape, thickness, etc. In some embodiments, at least one or all discs may differ from each other in one or more aspects such as outer diameter, shape, thickness, etc. Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrative example, each disk 140 has an outer diameter d F A central opening 142, which (in three dimensions) has an inner diameter 141. Individual discs 140 extend from the inner diameter 141 toward their outer diameter d. F Radial extension. In Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrative example, each disc 140 has a three-dimensional, approximately truncated conical shape, having a top surface 144 and a bottom surface 143. It can be seen that each disc 140 is stacked adjacent to and spaced apart from at least one other disc 140 to help separate the feed stream into at least two product streams, which will be referenced below. Figure 2 and Figure 3 Further discussion.

[0059] The disc stack 118 is positioned within the internal space 110 of the drum section 101 to interact with the feed flow as it exits the distributor 117 along a portion of the feed flow path 135. Figure 1B As can be seen, the central opening 142 of each disc 140 surrounds the upper part of the distributor 117 to define an annular region 145 that is approximately coaxial with the feed flow tube 116 and the axis 12.

[0060] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrative example, since each disc 140 has an outer diameter d F Therefore, the disk stack 118 has an outer diameter d. F It can be selected based on various factors (such as the composition of feed stream 1, the composition of product streams 2 and 3, etc.). In some embodiments, the outer diameter d F The diameter can be 100 to 1200 mm, or even 150 to 800 mm. The top surface 144 of each disc 140 forms an angle θ with respect to the reference plane 149 parallel to the axis 12. F Angle θ F It can also be selected based on various factors (such as the composition of feed stream 1, the composition of product streams 2 and 3, etc.). In some embodiments, the angle θ F It can be 30 to 55 degrees, or even 35 to 45 degrees.

[0061] Disc 140 (e.g.) Figure 1B(As shown) may include a first region, which, relative to the central axis 12, extends from the outer diameter d F Extending radially inward with an inner diameter of 141, it has a gap of 161 and forms an angle θ. F This is such that when the disc 140 is positioned in the centrifuge drum, the outer surface of the first region generally follows the shape of the inner surface that will be opposite the outer surface of the disc 140. The gap 161 can be maintained by including one or more spacers between the top surface 144 of a disc 140 and the bottom surface opposite the top surface 144 (e.g., the bottom surface 143 of the overlying disc 140 or the bottom surface 157 of the separate disc 146).

[0062] In some embodiments, the centrifuge according to the invention may include separating discs. As used herein, "separating disc" is different from a disc stack (e.g., disc stack 118) or a disc within disc stack 118 (e.g., disc 140). Separating discs help define and guide at least a portion of a second product stream path for a second product stream 3 that has been separated from the feed stream 1 in disc stack 118. As used herein, separating discs are not intended to separate a stream into two or more streams as disc stack 118 does with feed stream 1. Non-limiting examples of separating discs are provided in... Figure 1B The image shows a separate disc 146, which is positioned between the outermost disc 140 at the end (e.g., the top) of the disc stack 118 and the inner surface 105 of the top of the drum 103.

[0063] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the illustrative example, the separating disc 146 is described as generally conforming to the shape of the inner surface 105 of the drum top 103, while having a gap between the separating disc 146 and the drum top 103 to form a product flow path. For example, as described above, the drum top 103 has a first sidewall portion 108. It can be seen that the separating disc 146 has a region 158 having a surface 156 that extends radially outward relative to the axis 12 and generally follows (parallel to) the shape of the inner surface 105 of the first sidewall portion 108. Similarly, the separating disc 146 has a region 159 that generally follows (parallel to) the shape of the inner surface 105 of the second sidewall portion 109 of the drum top 103. This relationship between the separating disc 146 and the portion of the centrifuge 100 positioned close together helps to define at least a portion of the second product flow path 137 for the second product flow 3. The gap or vertical distance 160 between the inner surface 105 of the drum top 103 and the separating disc 146 can be selected as desired. In some embodiments, the vertical distance 160 is equal to or greater than the shortest vertical distance 161 between the top surface 144 of a disc 140 and the bottom surface 143 of an adjacent disc 140.

[0064] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1BIn the illustrative example, the split disc 146 has a maximum outer diameter d. H It can be selected based on various factors, such as the distance to other adjacent surfaces (e.g., inner surface 105 and / or disk stack 118). In some embodiments, the outer diameter d H It can be 150 to 1500 mm, or even 250 to 900 mm. In some embodiments, the outer diameter d H For d B 99% or less, while the outer diameter d H For d F 85% or more. For example, d H It can be equal to or less than d F In this embodiment, the separating disc has only region 158 and no region 159. In some embodiments, the outer diameter d H For d B 98.5% or less, while the outer diameter d H For d F 100% or greater. The bottom surface of region 159 of the separating disc 146 forms an angle θ with respect to a reference plane 121 parallel to axis 12. H Angle θ H The angle θ can be selected based on various factors (e.g., the composition of feed stream 1, the composition of product streams 2 and 3, etc.). In some embodiments, the angle θ H It can be 10 to 60 degrees, or even 15 to 40 degrees.

[0065] In some embodiments, the centrifuge according to the invention may further include one or more structural spacer ribs located between adjacent discs 140 and / or between the outer surface 156 of the separating disc 146 and the surface opposite to surface 156 (e.g., surface 105). As used herein, “structural spacer ribs” provide structural support to help maintain the space (gap) between opposing surfaces, especially when the centrifuge operates under high G-forces encountered when the centrifuge rotates at high rpm to separate the feed stream 1. While structural spacer ribs may divide the space into regions, for example, fluid flow paths, they are intended to function as structural support to maintain the gap / space for fluid flow between opposing surfaces and are not intended to significantly disrupt flow. For illustrative purposes, Figure 5AA non-limiting example of a separating disc 500 is shown, comprising a first region 558 that extends radially outward at an angle relative to the central axis 510 of the separating disc 500, such that when the separating disc 500 is positioned in a centrifuge drum, the outer surface of the first region 558 generally follows the shape of an inner surface (e.g., the inner surface of the top of the centrifuge drum) opposite to the outer surface of the first region 558. Similarly, the separating disc 500 has a second region 559 that extends radially outward at an angle relative to the central axis 510 of the separating disc 500, such that when the separating disc 500 is positioned in a centrifuge, the outer surface of the second region 559 generally follows the shape of an inner surface opposite to the outer surface of the second region 559. As shown, the outer surface of the first region 558 extends at an angle different from the angle at which the outer surface of the second region 559 extends.

[0066] like Figure 5A As shown, the first region 558 has a plurality of structural spacer ribs 505 that extend continuously from one end to the other along the outer surface of the first region 558. Alternatively, one or more structural spacer ribs may extend discontinuously along the outer surface of the first region 558, provided they provide sufficient structural stability and support to maintain space for fluid flow between opposing surfaces and do not significantly interrupt flow as described above. It can be seen that the sidewalls of each structural spacer rib are parallel to a plane intersecting the central axis 510 of the separating disc 500, which helps to avoid interrupting fluid flow through the respective spaces / regions between adjacent structural spacer ribs 505.

[0067] In some embodiments, when the separating disc 500 is positioned in a centrifuge, the individual structural spacer ribs 505 will primarily contact the inner surface opposite the outer surface of the first region 558 (e.g., the inner surface of the top of the centrifuge drum). For example, refer to... Figure 1BStructural spacer ribs may be attached to the outer surface 156 of region 158 and / or the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 108 of the drum top 103. When the separation disc 146 is installed in the centrifuge 100, at least while the centrifuge 100 is operating under high G-forces, the structural spacer ribs attached to the outer surface 156 of region 158 may contact the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 108 of the drum top 103 to provide stability and structural support, thereby helping to maintain the space (gap) 160 between the outer surface 156 of region 158 and the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 108 of the drum top 103, and maintaining the second product flow path 137 for the second product flow 3. When the centrifuge 100 is stationary and not rotating, the structural spacer ribs attached to the outer surface 156 of region 158 may also contact the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 108 of the drum top 103. Similarly, when the separating disc 146 is installed in the centrifuge 100, at least while the centrifuge 100 is operating under high G-forces, the structural spacer ribs on the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 108 attached to the top of the drum 103 can contact the outer surface 156 of the region 158 to provide structural stability and support, thereby helping to maintain the space (gap) 160 between the outer surface 156 of the region 158 and the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 108 of the top of the drum 103, and maintaining the second product flow path 137 for the second product flow 3. When the centrifuge 100 is stationary and not rotating, the structural spacer ribs on the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 108 attached to the top of the drum 103 can also contact the outer surface 156 of the region 158. Figure 5A As shown, the second region 559 also has a plurality of structural spacer ribs 515 that extend continuously from one end to the other along the outer surface of the second region 559. Alternatively, one or more structural spacer ribs may extend discontinuously along the outer surface of the second region 559, provided they provide sufficient structural stability and support to maintain space for fluid flow between opposing surfaces without significantly interrupting the flow. It can be seen that the sidewalls of the individual structural spacer ribs are parallel to a plane intersecting the central axis 510 of the separation disc 500, which generally helps to avoid interrupting the flow of fluid through the individual spaces / regions between adjacent structural spacer ribs.

[0068] In some embodiments, when the separating disc 500 is positioned in a centrifuge, the respective structural spacer ribs 515 will contact the inner surface adjacent to the outer surface of the second region 559. For example, refer to Figure 1BStructural spacer ribs may be attached to the outer surface 156 of region 159 and / or the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 109 of the drum top 103. When the separation disc 146 is installed in the centrifuge 100, at least while the centrifuge 100 is operating under high G-forces, the structural spacer ribs attached to the outer surface 156 of region 159 may contact the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 109 of the drum top 103 to provide structural stability and support, thereby helping to maintain the space (gap) between the outer surface 156 of region 159 and the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 109 of the drum top 103, and maintaining the second product flow path 137 for the second product flow 3. When the centrifuge 100 is stationary and not rotating, the structural spacer ribs attached to the outer surface 156 of region 159 may also contact the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 109 of the drum top 103. Similarly, when the separating disc 146 is installed in the centrifuge 100, at least while the centrifuge 100 is operating under high G-forces, the structural spacer ribs attached to the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 109 of the drum top 103 can contact the outer surface 156 of the region 159 to provide structural stability and support, thereby helping to maintain the space (gap) 160 between the outer surface 156 of the region 159 and the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 108 of the drum top 103, and maintaining the second product flow path 137 for the second product flow 3. When the centrifuge 100 is stationary and not rotating, the structural spacer ribs attached to the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 109 of the drum top 103 can also contact the outer surface 156 of the region 159.

[0069] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5A As shown, the structural spacer ribs 505 in the first region 558 are aligned with the corresponding structural spacer ribs 515 in the second region 559 (sharing a common dividing plane). In some embodiments, the second region 559 has more structural spacer ribs 505 than the first region 558. For example, as... Figure 5A As shown, for each structural spacer 505 in the first region 558, the second region 559 includes four structural spacer 505.

[0070] Figure 5B Similar to Figure 5A However, fewer structural spacer ribs are included in the second region 559.

[0071] Centrifuges that include one or more of the components described herein can be made of a variety of materials, such as various grades of stainless steel.

[0072] The centrifuge according to the invention typically rotates about its central axis of rotation via a rotor (not shown) driven by a motor 39 and over a wide range of revolutions per minute (rpm) to help separate the feed stream into at least two product streams. For example, the axis of rotation can be horizontal, vertical, or diagonal. Figure 1B As shown, the centrifuge 100 (including a rotating drum 101, a stack of discs 118, separating discs 146, a distributor 117, and a feed pipe) rotates around axis 12, while simultaneously... Figure 1A As shown, the centrifuge cover 60, feed inlet connection 11, first product stream outlet connection 21, second product stream outlet connection 31, solids collector 41, and discharge chute 42 remain fixed and stationary. To aid in separating the feed stream 1 into at least two product streams, the centrifuge according to the invention can operate at selected rpm or rpm ranges to provide a desired G-force at one or more locations within the internal space 110 of the drum section 101. As used herein, “G-force” (or “RCF” (relative centrifugal force)) refers to the amount of acceleration or force applied to the material in the centrifuge. G-force is a function of rotational speed and radius of rotation. G-force is expressed as a multiple (multiplied by gravity or ×g) of the standard acceleration due to the Earth's gravitational field. In some embodiments, the centrifuge drum section 101 has a d-force in the range of 3000 to 15000 ×g, or even 5000 to 12500 ×g. B The G-force at the location. In some embodiments, the centrifuge 100 has a d-force in the range of 3000 to 15000 × g, or even 5000 to 12500 × g. H The G-force at the location. In some embodiments, the centrifuge 100 has a d-force in the range of 1500 to 10000 × g, or even 3000 to 8500 × g. F G force at the location.

[0073] A centrifuge can separate a feed stream into at least a first product stream and a second product stream by allowing the feed stream to flow through a feed stream path into the internal space of the drum, thereby separating the feed stream into a first product stream and a second product stream. The first product stream can be discharged from the centrifuge (e.g., continuously) by flowing through the first product stream path, and the second product stream can be discharged from the centrifuge (e.g., continuously) by flowing through the second product stream path.

[0074] Regarding the centrifuge 100, the feed flow path 135 is in fluid communication with at least one feed inlet 10 and the internal space 110 of the drum section 101. Figure 3 It shows Figure 1BThis is a schematic diagram of the flow between two discs 140 in the disc stack of a centrifuge. For simplicity, surrounding structures such as the drum, distributor, and feed pipe are omitted. Figure 3 This illustrates how feed stream 1 can interact with discs 140 in disc stack 118 to help separate feed stream 1 into a first product stream 2 and a second product stream 3 while exposing feed stream 1 to sufficient G-force and exposure time. For illustrative purposes, feed stream 1 originates from a distillate comprising solid particles and liquid.

[0075] As feed stream 1 flows into the space between the two discs 140, centrifugal force causes solid particles 170 to separate from feed stream 1 ("primary separation" to form two product streams) and flow into solid retention space 147 to form a second product stream 3 of concentrated solids, while liquid tends to continue in the space between adjacent discs 140 and from the outer diameter d F The second product stream 3 flows along radially extending surfaces 144 and 143 and toward inner diameter 141 to form a first product stream 2, and flows into an annular region 145, which is part of the first product stream path 136. Compared to the first product stream 2, which is a light phase and is a clear liquid, the second product stream 3 is a relatively heavy phase.

[0076] refer to Figure 2 As the solids separated from the liquid leave the stack of discs 118 due to centrifugal force, as indicated by the flow path at arrow 200, they tend to flow outward from the central axis of rotation 12. Solids encountering the inner surface of the region 159 of the separation discs 146 tend to flow downward as indicated by the flow path at arrow 201, and towards the maximum inner diameter d of the drum portion 101. B Flow. Similarly, solids encountering the inner surface 106 tend to flow upwards as indicated by the flow path at arrow 202, and towards the maximum inner diameter d of the drum portion 101. B Flow. Accumulation within the inner diameter d B and / or d H Nearby solids tend to flow into the opening 205 between the end of the separating disc 146 and the inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 109, which is part of the second product flow path 137. As described, the centrifuge 100 is a non-limiting illustration of such a centrifuge according to the invention and can have various configurations defining the opening 205. For example, the separating disc 146 may have a shorter region 159, a longer region 159, or even no region 159. In some embodiments, such as when the separating disc 146 does not have region 159, the outer diameter d H It can be greater than d F 、and d F Same as or less than d FAs yet another example, the centrifuge according to the invention may not have a separating disc 146, such that the opening 205 is defined by the gap between the end of the uppermost disc 140 in the disc stack 118 and the inner surface 105.

[0077] Optionally, the centrifuge may include one or more additional product stream paths, such as in a three-phase disc centrifuge. In some embodiments, the first product stream is a light-phase liquid stream; the second product stream is a heavy-phase stream comprising most of the solid particles from the feed stream; and the third product stream is a heavy-phase liquid stream. A non-limiting example of a feed stream that can be processed in the three-phase centrifuge according to the invention is a boil-up stream (e.g., a dilute boil-up distillate), wherein the first product stream is a light-phase liquid stream comprising most of the oil from the boil-up distillate feed stream, the second product stream is a heavy-phase solid stream comprising most of the solid particles from the boil-up distillate feed stream, and the third product stream comprises most of the water from the boil-up distillate feed stream. An example of separating a boil-up distillate stream into three phases is reported in U.S. Patent No. 9,290,728 (Bootsma), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0078] It has been found that continuously discharging product streams (e.g., a second product stream 3, especially a product stream containing a mixture of particles with different sizes and / or densities) can be challenging. Figure 4 The flow of a second product stream 3 is illustrated as a mixture of particles with different characteristics (e.g., relatively large and / or fast-settling particles 210 and relatively small and / or slow-settling particles 215). Arrows 200, 201, and 202 describe the flow path of the solids traveling into the opening 205. The inventors have observed that at least a portion of the solids (e.g., particles 210) tends to stagnate and not be discharged along with the remainder of the second product stream (e.g., not along with the liquid and the smaller and / or slower-settling particles 215). While not bound by theory, it is believed that the relatively high G-forces encountered near the outermost region of the internal space of the drum (e.g., with the d-forces of the disc stack 118) F The relatively lower G-force at the inner diameter d compared to the inner diameter d B and / or d H The relatively high G-force in the vicinity may cause the product stream to undergo undesirable "secondary" separation to an inappropriate degree (e.g., where the flow transitions at opening 205, such as...). Figure 4As shown), this hinders the continuous discharge of the product stream, especially as a relatively homogeneous mixture. It is believed that the product stream (e.g., the second product stream 3) can undergo this secondary separation due to the particles having one or more different characteristics (e.g., 1) different particle sizes; 2) different settling velocities; 3) density differences between different particles; 4) weight differences between particles of the same density but different sizes; and / or 5) agglomeration of particles that may have the same or different densities and / or the same or different weights and / or the same or different settling velocities). For example, as... Figure 4 As shown, relatively smaller and / or slower settling particles 215 tend to separate from relatively larger and / or faster settling particles 210, thereby classifying the larger and / or faster settling particles 210 from the smaller and / or slower settling particles 215. This depletes the amount of faster settling particles 210 and / or depletes the solids concentration and / or alters the composition of the second product stream before it exits the centrifuge 100 via the second product path 137. Simultaneously, the larger and / or faster settling particles 210 tend to “slide backward” and concentrate in a stagnant manner near the opening 205, rather than remaining mixed with the smaller and / or slower settling particles 215 at approximately the same composition and / or concentration as they arrive along the flow paths 200, 201, 202. Thus, the smaller particles 215 are more diluted by the liquid and / or deplete the larger particles 210 and / or deplete the total solids concentration and / or alter the composition, rather than being mixed relatively uniformly with the larger particles 210. Furthermore, it is believed that the stagnant and / or backward-sliding solid 210 preferably accumulates in d B Nearby, and subsequently as additional stagnant solids accumulate over time, they accumulate radially inward toward axis 12, thus having the effect of restricting flow and / or causing flow through the channel of opening 205.

[0079] According to the invention, it has been found that positioning one or more discrete flow interference elements in the product stream path can help interrupt the flow in the path and prevent secondary separation from occurring to an undesirable degree, for example, within path 137. Advantageously, undesirable particle size and / or settling velocity classification can be avoided within path 137, thereby maintaining a relatively homogeneous mixture of solid particles in product stream 3. This facilitates the continuous discharge of product streams, such as heavy phase product streams like second product stream 3, via second product stream path 137. If desired, the resulting improved continuous discharge can allow centrifuge operation without frequently or even at all discharging concentrated solid particles from stream 4 via discharge channel 5, compared to the same product stream path excluding any discrete flow interference elements according to the invention. Extending steady-state operation by reducing or eliminating periodic slag removal via discharge channel 40 avoids system interruptions and undesirable wear on the centrifuge. Figure 1A and Figure 1BAs shown, the discharge stream 4 is in fluid communication with the solids collector 41 and the discharge chute 42. Continuous discharge via a nozzle (not shown) can also be avoided if desired, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, for reasons including, but not limited to: 1) the improved method according to the invention for continuously discharging separated solids, which are known to have a tendency to form putty-like clumps; 2) the improved method according to the invention for continuously discharging separated solids, which have a solids flow rate that varies significantly over time; and 3) the improved method according to the invention, which facilitates online control and / or adjustment of the concentration and / or consistency and / or flow rate of the continuously discharged separated solids stream.

[0080] The second product stream 3 can be discharged continuously over an extended period of time and at an industrial-level flow rate, which, depending on the product characteristics, can be any of a few minutes, hours, or even weeks or months, and the flow rate can be from 1 to 350 gpm, depending on the centrifuge size and product characteristics. The second product stream 3 can have relatively uniform physical and / or chemical properties (e.g., the distribution and size distribution of one or more solid particle types do not vary to an inappropriate degree).

[0081] As used herein, discrete flow interference elements are physical structures designed to interrupt flow in a flow path (e.g., ordered axial-radial flow along the disc surface) to allow material mixing and / or remixing, rather than undergoing the inappropriate secondary separation described above. Discrete flow interference elements can be located at one or more locations, particularly at locations with relatively high G-forces, within one or more product flow paths within the interior space of the drum. In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As illustrated in the illustrative example, multiple discrete flow interference elements 601 are located at least on the radially extending outer surface 156 of the region 159 (e.g., the lower region) of the separation disc 146, and / or multiple discrete flow interference elements 602 are located at least on the radially extending inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 109 of the drum top 103. These regions of the second product flow path 137 may encounter some of the highest G-forces during separation and may therefore be more susceptible to undesirable secondary separation.

[0082] Optionally, such as Figure 6 As illustrated in the illustrative example, multiple discrete flow interference elements 603 are located on the radially extending outer surface 156 of the region 158 (e.g., the upper region) of the separation disc 146, and / or multiple discrete flow interference elements 604 are located on the radially extending inner surface 105 of the sidewall portion 108 of the drum top 103, which is also located in the second product flow path 137. These regions of the second product flow path 137 may also encounter relatively high G-forces during separation, and therefore may be more susceptible to undesirable secondary separation.

[0083] like Figure 6 As illustrated in the illustrative example, discrete flow interference members 601, 602, 603, and 604 protrude away from their respective attached surfaces and enter the second product flow path 137 to interrupt flow and induce mixing. The discrete flow interference members may or may not contact the surface opposite to the surface from which they protrude. Figure 6 As shown, the discrete flow interference members 601, 602, 603, and 604 do not contact the surfaces opposite to their respective protruding surfaces, such that gaps exist between the discrete flow interference members 601, 602, 603, and 604 and the surfaces opposite to their protruding surfaces. Providing gaps can provide a balance between interrupting the flow to induce mixing and simultaneously not interrupting it and / or limiting the throughput through the product flow path 137 to an inappropriate degree. More specifically, as Figure 6 As shown, there is a gap between the end 607 of the discrete flow interference member 601 and the inner surface 105 of the drum top 103; and there is a gap between the end 609 of the discrete flow interference member 603 and the inner surface 105 of the drum top 103. Similarly, there is a gap between the end 608 of the discrete flow interference member 602 and the outer surface 156 of the separation disc 146; and there is a gap between the end 610 of the discrete flow interference member 604 and the outer surface 156 of the separation disc 146. In some embodiments, such gaps may be in the range of greater than 0 mm to 10 mm, greater than 0 mm to 9 mm, greater than 0 mm to 8 mm, greater than 0 mm to 7 mm, greater than 0 mm to 6 mm, greater than 0 mm to 5 mm, greater than 0 mm to 4 mm, greater than 0 mm to less than 3 mm, greater than 0 mm to less than 2 mm, or even greater than 0 mm to less than 1 mm.

[0084] Optionally, multiple discrete flow interference components may be located outside the second product flow path 137 to promote mixing and avoid inappropriate secondary separation immediately before entering the second product flow path 137. For example, as Figure 6 As shown, multiple discrete flow interference elements 605 are located on the inner surface 157 of the region 159 (e.g., the lower region) of the separation disc 146, and / or multiple discrete flow interference elements 606 are located on the inner surface 106. Such positioning of the discrete flow interference elements can facilitate the mixing of solids that tend to collect in the solid holding space 147 in other ways, and subsequently result in flow loss and / or channeling of solids with lower viscosity.

[0085] Discrete flow interference components can have a wide range of shapes and sizes, can be selected to interrupt flow, for example, to induce mixing, and can depend on factors such as the type of one or more components in the feed stream. In a non-limiting manner, Figure 7 Multiple discrete flow interference components 701 in the shape of pyramids, discrete flow interference components 702 in the shape of cubes or rectangles, and discrete flow interference components 703 in the shape of circles or spheres are shown.

[0086] Figure 9A A separate disc 935 comprising a plurality of discrete flow interference components 901 according to the present invention is shown.

[0087] Discrete flow interference components may or may not have, such as Figure 9B and Figure 9D The conical profile shown. Figure 9A and Figure 9B In the illustrative example, the discrete flow interference member 901 has a height 940 ranging from greater than 0 to 100 mm, from greater than 0 to 50 mm, from greater than 0 to 20 mm, or even from greater than 0 to less than 15 mm. In some embodiments, the discrete flow interference member 901 has a length 945 ranging from greater than 0 to 100 mm, from greater than 0 to 50 mm, or even from 10 to 40 mm. In some embodiments, the discrete flow interference member 901 has a width 946 ranging from greater than 0 to 100 mm, from greater than 0 to 50 mm, or even from 5 to 30 mm.

[0088] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9A As illustrated in the illustrative example, discrete flow interference members 901 may be oriented relative to a reference plane 905. For each interference member 901, the reference plane 905 is parallel to a line extending from the midpoint of a side surface 909 of the respective interference member, parallel to the surface of the separating disc 935, to the axis of rotation 912. One or more discrete flow interference members 901 may be oriented relative to the reference plane 905 such that the side surface 909 forms an angle 910, such that a given discrete flow interference member 901 interrupts axial-radial flow along the disc surface of the separating disc 935 to allow material mixing and / or remixing, rather than undergoing the inappropriate secondary separation as described above. In some embodiments, the side surface 909 forms an angle 910 in the range of 0 to 360 degrees, greater than 0 to 360 degrees, or even from 15 to 345 degrees. Note that if the discrete flow interference member 901 has a zero angle 910, then the discrete flow interference member 901 (different from the structural spacer 902) has surface features (e.g., gaps (as described above), shape, and / or profile) that result in material mixing and / or remixing, rather than undergoing the inappropriate secondary separation described above. In some embodiments, one or more discrete flow interference members 901 may be oriented at a different angle compared to other discrete flow interference members 901. In some embodiments, one or more discrete flow interference members 901 may be oriented at the same angle compared to other discrete flow interference members 901.

[0089] exist Figure 9D In the illustrative example, the discrete flow interference member 903 may have a tapered profile, which is substantially similar to... Figure 9B The discrete flow interference members 901 are identical, but positioned in an inverted manner. In some embodiments, structural spacer ribs 902 extend continuously or discontinuously from the outer diameter 930 to the inner diameter 931 of the separating disc 935 and can be oriented relative to a reference plane 906. For each structural spacer rib 902, the reference plane 906 is parallel to a line extending from the midpoint of the side surface 921 of the respective structural spacer rib, parallel to the surface of the separating disc, to the axis of rotation 912. One or more structural spacer ribs 902 can be oriented relative to the reference plane 906 such that the side surface 921 forms an angle 920, such that the structural spacer rib 902 serves as a structural support to maintain a gap / space for fluid flow between opposing surfaces. The structural spacer ribs 902 are not intended to significantly disrupt flow. For illustrative purposes, as Figure 9A As shown, angle 920 is depicted as greater than zero. In some embodiments, since side 921 corresponds to the central axis of rotation 912, angle 920 corresponds to approximately zero. In some embodiments, angle 920 may be in the range of 0 to 30 degrees, or even curved, wavy, etc. Figure 9C As shown, the structural spacer rib 902 has a length, height, and width. In some embodiments, the structural spacer rib 902 has a height 947 ranging from greater than 0 to 100 mm, from greater than 0 to 50 mm, from greater than 0 to 20 mm, from 15 to 100 mm, or even from 25 to 100 mm. In some embodiments, the height of the structural spacer rib 902 is greater than the height of the discrete flow interference member 901. In some embodiments, the structural spacer rib 902 has a length 948 ranging from 10 to 500 mm, from 50 to 400 mm, or even from 20 to 300 mm. In some embodiments, the length of the structural spacer rib 902 is greater than the length of the discrete flow interference member 901. In some embodiments, the structural spacer rib 902 has a width 949 ranging from greater than 0 to 100 mm, from greater than 0 to 50 mm, from greater than 0 to 20 mm, from 15 to 100 mm, or even from 25 to 100 mm. In some embodiments, each structural spacer rib 902 has the same width among all structural spacer ribs 902. In some embodiments, each structural spacer 902 has the same height among all structural spacer 902. In some embodiments, one or more structural spacer ribs may have a length spanning a distance from the outer diameter (perimeter) 930 to the inner diameter (perimeter) 931, such as... Figure 9A As shown. In some embodiments, as Figure 9E As shown, one or more structural spacer ribs 902 may have openings (holes) 904 that allow flow through them.

[0090] Structural spacer ribs can be positioned on a surface in a variety of ways. For example, structural spacer ribs can be individually attached and / or oriented using various fastening techniques (adhesives, welding, mechanical fasteners (e.g., screws, etc.), and / or can be integrally formed with them from their protruding surfaces. Figure 9C As shown, the structural spacer rib 902 is attached to the upper surface of the separation disc 935 via weld 951.

[0091] Figures 10A to 10I Several views of an embodiment of a discrete disc 1000 having discrete flow interference elements 1001 according to the present invention are shown. Figures 10A to 10I This illustrates the symmetry of the separate disc 1000 about a vertical plane passing through axis 1012. For example... Figure 10A As shown, the separating disc 1000 has: a first region 1058 extending radially outward relative to its axis of rotation 1012; and a second region 1059 also extending radially outward from the intersection of the first region 1058 and the second region 1059, but at a different angle than the first region 1058. Note that the first region 1058 and... Figure 5A and Figure 5B The first region 558 in each of them is roughly the same. Note that the second region 1059 is... Figure 5B The second region 559 is substantially the same as the second region 1059, except that the second region 1059 includes a plurality of discrete flow interference members 1001. In this embodiment, the discrete flow interference members 1001 are located only in the second region 1059 and have a tapered or ramp profile similar to that of the discrete flow interference members 901. Moreover, the discrete flow interference members 1001 are positioned between adjacent structural spacer ribs 1015. In some embodiments, the length of the discrete flow interference members within the region does not extend from one end of the region to the other end of the region like the structural spacer ribs. For example, as Figures 10A to 10I As shown, each of the plurality of discrete flow interference components 1001 has a length and width dimension smaller than the length dimension of the respective structural spacer rib 1015. Moreover, as... Figures 10A to 10I As shown, discrete flow interference elements 1001 (or multiple elements 1001) between adjacent structural spacer ribs 1015 and within horizontal rows are circumferentially offset from discrete flow interference elements 1001 (or multiple elements 1001) in each adjacent row. These rows are offset from each other in the flow direction 1050 of the product stream. These offsets can help interrupt the flow of the product stream, causing mixing and / or remixing, and avoiding undesirable secondary separation and any resulting solid stagnation and / or reverse slippage as described herein. For example, Figure 10D The three horizontal rows 1020, 1030 and 1040 of the discrete flow interference element 1001 are shown (row 1040 includes only one discrete flow interference element 1001).

[0092] Optionally, one or more discrete flow interference elements 1001 may be located in the first region 1058.

[0093] In some embodiments, such as Figures 10A to 10I As shown, the structural spacer ribs 1005 in the first region 1058 are aligned with the adjacent structural spacer ribs 1015 in the second region 1059 (sharing a common central dividing plane). In some embodiments, such as Figures 10A to 10I As shown, the second region 1059 has the same number of structural spacer ribs 1015 as the structural spacer ribs 1005 in the first region 1058.

[0094] The number of discrete flow interference elements included on a surface or in a region can be selected as desired. In some embodiments, a centrifuge may include at least one discrete flow interference element. In some embodiments, a centrifuge (e.g., the inner surface of the drum and / or the surface of the separation discs) may include 2 to 600 discrete flow interference elements; 2 to 500 discrete flow interference elements; 2 to 400 discrete flow interference elements; 2 to 300 discrete flow interference elements; 2 to 200 discrete flow interference elements; 2 to 150 discrete flow interference elements; 2 to 100 discrete flow interference elements; 2 to 75 discrete flow interference elements; 2 to 50 discrete flow interference elements; or even 2 to 30 discrete flow interference elements. In some embodiments, the centrifuge may include 20 to 600 discrete flow interference elements; 30 to 500 discrete flow interference elements; 40 to 400 discrete flow interference elements; 50 to 300 discrete flow interference elements; 100 to 200 discrete flow interference elements; or even 100 to 150 discrete flow interference elements. For example, each region 1059 between adjacent structural spacer ribs 1015 may include one or more, two or more, three or more, four or more, five or more, six or more, or even seven or more discrete flow interference elements (e.g., 2 to 20 discrete flow interference elements). Figures 10A to 10IAs illustrated in the illustrative example, each region in region 1059 between adjacent structural spacer ribs 1015 has six discrete flow interference elements. Similarly, each region in region 1058 between adjacent structural spacer ribs 1015 may include three or more, four or more, five or more, six or more, or even seven or more discrete flow interference elements (e.g., two to 20 discrete flow interference elements). Furthermore, any region, surface, or area described herein may include any desired number of discrete flow interference elements, such as three or more, four or more, five or more, six or more, or even seven or more discrete flow interference elements (e.g., two to 50 discrete flow interference elements, or even three to 30 discrete flow interference elements).

[0095] Discrete flow interference components can be made of a variety of materials, selected based on various factors. For example, it is desirable to construct discrete flow interference components using materials compatible with both the feed and product flows and with the high G-forces encountered during separation. In some embodiments, discrete flow interference components can be rigid and made of materials selected from metals, plastics, ceramics, composites, combinations thereof, etc. Discrete flow interference components described herein can be made of various metals, such as iron and iron alloys, aluminum and aluminum alloys, and titanium and titanium alloys. For example, discrete flow interference components can be made of various grades of stainless steel. Discrete flow interference components can be heat-treated to improve hardness, toughness, and / or some other property. For example, discrete flow interference components can be made of heat-treated stainless steel.

[0096] Discrete flow interference components can be positioned on a surface in various ways. For example, discrete flow interference components can be individually attached and / or oriented using various fastening techniques (adhesives, welding, mechanical fasteners (e.g., screws, etc.), and / or can be integrally formed with them from their protruding surfaces. For example, as... Figure 7 As shown, the discrete flow interference components 701, 702, and 703 are integrally formed on their extending surfaces. Alternatively, one or more discrete flow interference components may be attached to their extending surfaces via threaded connections, adhesive connections, welding, etc. Figure 8 As shown, the discrete flow interference components 801, 802, and 803 are attached via threaded connections. Discrete flow interference component 804 is attached via a press-fit plug, and discrete flow interference component 805 is integrally formed on the surface from which the component extends. Due to the relatively high G-forces encountered and the design requirements for vibration stability of the centrifuge, it may be desirable for the discrete flow interference components to be positioned in a rigid and immovable (static) manner (e.g., whether integrally formed with or fastened to another component). In some embodiments, having one or more of the following... Figure 8The removably attached discrete flow interference components shown allow them to be easily adjusted according to any unique requirements of the process during equipment and process installation and / or optimization.

[0097] The present invention also includes systems and methods for separating at least one feed stream into at least a first product stream and a second product stream in a centrifuge. To help avoid undesirable secondary separation and any resulting solid stagnation as described above, the present invention includes interrupting the flow of the product stream within the centrifuge while providing the desired product stream throughput and / or characteristics (e.g., concentration, composition, etc.), particularly on a continuous basis. In some embodiments, interrupting the flow of the product stream may cause the contents of the product stream to mix, shear, etc., to help maintain the characteristics of the product stream as it is when separated from the feed stream. For example, according to the present invention, the flow of the product stream can be interrupted to mix solid particles and avoid undesirable secondary separation (as described above), thereby maintaining the product stream as a relatively homogeneous mixture and / or even a more concentrated mixture compared to when the product stream is not interrupted. According to the present invention, various techniques for interrupting the flow of the product stream in the product stream path can be used alone or in combination. For example, one or more discrete flow interference elements as described above can be located in the product stream path to interrupt the flow of the product stream. The flow of the product stream can be interrupted in one or more directions. For example, the flow can be interrupted in the axial direction defined by axis 12 and / or in the radial direction perpendicular to axis 12.

[0098] The following are exemplary embodiments of the present invention:

[0099] 1. A centrifuge having a central axis of rotation, wherein the centrifuge comprises:

[0100] a) The rotating drum section, which includes:

[0101] i) at least one feed inlet and at least one first product outlet and a second product outlet;

[0102] ii) A drum having an inner surface defining an internal space, wherein at least one feed inlet and at least two product outlets are in fluid communication with the internal space;

[0103] b) A feed flow path that is in fluid communication with at least one feed inlet and the internal space of the drum; and

[0104] c) Two or more product flow paths, wherein the two or more product flow paths include at least:

[0105] i) The first product logistics path; and

[0106] ii) A second product flow path, wherein the second product flow path has an inlet in an internal space, wherein the second product flow path includes a space between a first radially extending surface and a second radially extending surface, and wherein at least one of the first radially extending surface and the second radially extending surface includes at least one discrete flow interference member located in the second product flow path to interrupt the flow of the second product flow, wherein the first product flow path is located between the second product flow path and the central axis of rotation.

[0107] 2. The centrifuge according to Example 1, wherein the second product flow path is adjacent to the inner surface of the drum.

[0108] 3. The centrifuge according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein at least one discrete flow interference member is attached to a first radially extending surface and protrudes toward a second radially extending surface.

[0109] 4. The centrifuge according to Example 3, wherein at least one discrete flow interference member does not contact the second radially extending surface.

[0110] 5. A centrifuge according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein at least one discrete flow interference member is attached to a first radially extending surface and protrudes toward a second radially extending surface, wherein the at least one discrete flow interference member has an end adjacent to the second radially extending surface and forms a gap (vertical distance) between the end and the second radially extending surface, wherein the gap is from greater than 0 mm to 10 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 9 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 8 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 7 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 6 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 5 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 4 mm, from greater than 0 mm to less than 3 mm, from greater than 0 mm to less than 2 mm, or even from greater than 0 mm to less than 1 mm.

[0111] 6. A centrifuge according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein at least one discrete flow interference member is integrally formed on the first radially extending surface or attached to the first radially extending surface using fasteners (e.g., threaded screws, adhesives, etc.).

[0112] 7. A centrifuge according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein at least one discrete flow interference member is attached to a second radially extending surface and protrudes toward a first radially extending surface.

[0113] 8. The centrifuge according to embodiment 7, wherein at least one discrete flow interference member attached to the second radially extending surface does not contact the first radially extending surface.

[0114] 9. A centrifuge according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein at least one discrete flow interference member is attached to a second radially extending surface and protrudes toward a first radially extending surface, wherein the at least one discrete flow interference member has an end adjacent to the first radially extending surface and forms a gap (vertical distance) between the end and the first radially extending surface, wherein the gap is from greater than 0 mm to 10 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 9 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 8 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 7 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 6 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 5 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 4 mm, from greater than 0 mm to less than 3 mm, from greater than 0 mm to less than 2 mm, or even from greater than 0 mm to less than 1 mm.

[0115] 10. A centrifuge according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein at least one discrete flow interference member is integrally formed on the second radially extending surface or attached to the second radially extending surface using fasteners (e.g., threaded screws, adhesives, etc.).

[0116] 11. The centrifuge according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the second product flow path has an inlet adjacent to the inner surface of the drum.

[0117] 12. The centrifuge according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein it further includes at least one disc having an outer diameter, wherein the at least one disc is positioned in the internal space of the drum portion.

[0118] 13. A centrifuge according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein it further includes at least one disc having an outer diameter and a central opening having an inner diameter, wherein the at least one disc is positioned in the internal space of the drum portion.

[0119] 14. A centrifuge according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, further comprising a plurality of discs (e.g., disc stack 118) positioned in the internal space of the drum portion, wherein each disc has an outer diameter and a central opening having an inner diameter, wherein each disc is stacked adjacent to and spaced apart from at least one other disc to form a gap (vertical distance) between adjacent discs, wherein the gap between adjacent discs defines a liquid portion flow path such that the liquid portion can flow toward the inner diameter, wherein each liquid portion flow path is in fluid communication with a first product flow path.

[0120] 15. A centrifuge according to any one of embodiments 12 to 14, wherein a first radially extending surface includes an inner surface of a drum portion, and a second radially extending surface includes a disc adjacent to the inner surface of the drum portion, wherein the vertical distance between the inner surface of the drum portion and the disc adjacent to the inner surface of the drum portion is equal to or greater than the shortest vertical distance between any adjacent discs.

[0121] 16. A centrifuge according to any one of embodiments 12 to 14, further comprising a separating disc positioned between the outermost disc of at least one or more discs and the inner surface of the drum portion, wherein a first radially extending surface includes the inner surface of the drum portion, and a second radially extending surface includes the surface of the separating disc adjacent to the inner surface of the drum portion.

[0122] 17. The centrifuge according to embodiment 16, wherein the vertical distance between the inner surface of the drum and the surfaces of the separation discs adjacent to the inner surface of the drum is equal to or greater than the shortest vertical distance between any adjacent discs.

[0123] 18. A centrifuge according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the first radially extending surface includes at least a sidewall portion (e.g., sidewall portion 109), and the second radially extending surface includes at least a region (e.g., region 159), wherein the sidewall portion and the region define an inlet (e.g., 205) of a second product flow path, and wherein at least the sidewall portion and / or the region includes at least one discrete flow interference member located in the second product flow path.

[0124] 19. The centrifuge according to embodiment 18, wherein the sidewall portion is a first sidewall portion and the region is a first region, wherein the first radially extending surface further includes at least a second sidewall portion (e.g., sidewall portion 108) and the second radially extending surface further includes at least a second region (e.g., region 158), and the centrifuge further includes one or more discrete flow interference members located on the second sidewall portion and / or the second region and in the second product flow path.

[0125] 20. A centrifuge according to embodiment 19, wherein the first region includes a first surface (e.g., surface 156) facing a first sidewall portion and a second surface (e.g., surface 157) opposite to the first surface, and the centrifuge further includes one or more discrete flow interference members located on the second surface.

[0126] 21. The centrifuge according to any of the foregoing embodiments, further comprising a feed pipe positioned along the central axis of the centrifuge to define a feed flow path, wherein the feed pipe has an inlet and an outlet.

[0127] 22. The centrifuge according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein it further includes one or more radially extending structural spacer ribs between the first radially extending surface and the second radially extending surface.

[0128] 23. The centrifuge according to Example 22, wherein adjacent structural spacer ribs define a portion of a second product flow path.

[0129] 24. A centrifuge according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the drum portion includes a drum bottom and a drum top, and wherein the inner surface of the drum bottom includes at least one discrete flow interference member to interrupt flow along the inner surface of the drum bottom.

[0130] 25. The centrifuge according to any of the foregoing embodiments, further comprising a third product flow path, wherein the third product flow path is located between the second product flow path and the first product flow path (e.g., a three-phase centrifuge).

[0131] 26. A centrifuge according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein at least one discrete flow interference member comprises a plurality of discrete flow interference members (2 to 600 discrete flow interference members).

[0132] 27. A method for separating at least one feed stream into at least a first product stream and a second product stream in a centrifuge, wherein the method comprises:

[0133] a) Providing at least one feed stream to the feed stream inlet of a centrifuge, wherein the centrifuge has a central axis of rotation and a drum portion having an inner surface that defines an internal space;

[0134] b) Separating two or more product streams from at least one feed stream within the internal space of the drum, wherein a first product stream flows in a first product stream path of the centrifuge, and a second product stream flows into a second product stream path adjacent to the inner surface of the drum; and

[0135] c) Disrupt the flow of the second product stream in the path of the second product stream.

[0136] 28. The method according to embodiment 27, wherein interruption of the flow of the second product stream in the second product stream path is caused by at least one discrete flow interference member located in the second product stream path to interrupt the flow of the second product stream, wherein the second product stream path includes a space between a first radially extending surface and a second radially extending surface, and wherein at least one of the first radially extending surface and the second radially extending surface includes at least one discrete flow interference member.

[0137] 29. The method according to any of the foregoing embodiments, further comprising a third product stream flowing in a third product stream path, wherein the third product stream path is located between the second product stream path and the first product stream path, wherein the first product stream path is located between the third product stream path and the central axis of rotation (e.g., a three-phase centrifuge).

[0138] Example

[0139] Tests were conducted on two different disc centrifuges, which were identical in all respects except for the one difference described below. The tests involved, as follows: Figure 1B The feed stream and product stream are shown. Specifically, feed stream 1 is fed to a disc centrifuge to separate into a first product stream 2, a second product stream 3, and an outlet stream 4. The first disc centrifuge includes separating discs constructed with structural spacer ribs, but unlike... Figure 5A The second disc centrifuge includes a separation disc, which is constructed with structural spacer ribs and discrete flow interference components, such as... Figures 10A to 10I The only design difference between the centrifuge and the first disc centrifuge is the separation disc 1000. Figure 11 The volumetric solids content of each of the second product streams 3 produced in the test is shown.

[0140] In the absence of discrete flow interference components, discharge is carried out via flow 4 at intervals as small as two (2) minutes (e.g. Figure 5A (In the middle) a heterogeneous material was produced, mainly marked by amorphous putty-like lumps within a small amount of free-flowing, thickened paste-like portion. Discharged via flow 4 with the same discharge volume and interval using a separation disc with discrete flow interference components (e.g.) Figures 10A to 10I The (medium) stream produced a uniform discharge material that was generally not very concentrated and did not contain any putty-like lumps. This discharge material was similar to the paste-like portion of the aforementioned example, but more concentrated and stickier, and almost impossible to flow freely. Furthermore, the absence of these lumps was observed even after fairly long discharge intervals of 5 or 10 minutes, and included the same discharge volume. Table 1 shows the weight solids content (% w / w) of the discharge material produced in Stream 4 during the comparative test.

[0141] The absence of such amorphous putty lumps facilitates continuous operation, consistency, and even the convergence of composition and concentration in streams 3 and 4. It avoids the risk of hard clogging of discs with such putty lumps and the resulting negative impact on separation efficiency, reduces discharge interruptions, and minimizes wear and tear on the centrifuge itself over time.

[0142] Table 1

[0143]

Claims

1. A centrifuge having a central axis of rotation, wherein, The centrifuge includes: a) The rotating drum section, which includes: i) at least one feed inlet and at least one first product outlet and a second product outlet; ii) An inner surface defining an internal space, wherein the at least one feed inlet and at least two product outlets are in fluid communication with the internal space; b) A feed flow path that is in fluid communication with the at least one feed inlet and the internal space of the drum; and c) Two or more product flow paths, wherein the two or more product flow paths include at least: i) The first product logistics path; and ii) A second product flow path, wherein the second product flow path has an inlet in the internal space, wherein the second product flow path includes a space between a first radially extending surface and a second radially extending surface, and wherein at least one of the first radially extending surface and the second radially extending surface includes at least one discrete flow interference member located in the second product flow path to interrupt the flow of the second product flow, wherein the first product flow path is located between the second product flow path and the central axis of rotation. The at least one discrete flow interference member includes at least one discrete flow interference member attached to the first radially extending surface and protruding toward the second radially extending surface, wherein the at least one discrete flow interference member has an end adjacent to the second radially extending surface and forms a first gap between the end and the second radially extending surface. and / or The at least one discrete flow interference member includes at least one discrete flow interference member attached to the second radially extending surface and protruding toward the first radially extending surface, wherein the at least one discrete flow interference member has an end adjacent to the first radially extending surface and forms a second gap between the end and the first radially extending surface.

2. The centrifuge according to claim 1, wherein, The first gap is from greater than 0 mm to 10 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 9 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 8 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 7 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 6 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 5 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 4 mm, from greater than 0 mm to less than 3 mm, from greater than 0 mm to less than 2 mm, or even from greater than 0 mm to less than 1 mm. and / or The second gap is from greater than 0 mm to 10 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 9 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 8 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 7 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 6 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 5 mm, from greater than 0 mm to 4 mm, from greater than 0 mm to less than 3 mm, from greater than 0 mm to less than 2 mm, or even from greater than 0 mm to less than 1 mm.

3. A centrifuge having a central axis of rotation, wherein, The centrifuge includes: a) The rotating drum section, which includes: i) at least one feed inlet and at least one first product outlet and a second product outlet; ii) An inner surface defining an internal space, wherein the at least one feed inlet and at least two product outlets are in fluid communication with the internal space; b) A feed flow path that is in fluid communication with the at least one feed inlet and the internal space of the drum; and c) Two or more product flow paths, wherein the two or more product flow paths include at least: i) The first product logistics path; and ii) A second product flow path, wherein the second product flow path has an inlet in the internal space, wherein the second product flow path includes a space between a first radially extending surface and a second radially extending surface, and wherein at least one of the first radially extending surface and the second radially extending surface includes at least one discrete flow interference member located in the second product flow path to interrupt the flow of the second product flow, wherein the first product flow path is located between the second product flow path and the central axis of rotation. The at least one discrete flow interference member includes at least one discrete flow interference member attached to the first radially extending surface and protruding toward the second radially extending surface, wherein the at least one discrete flow interference member does not contact the second radially extending surface. and / or The at least one discrete flow interference member includes at least one discrete flow interference member attached to the second radially extending surface and protruding toward the first radially extending surface, wherein the at least one discrete flow interference member attached to the second radially extending surface does not contact the first radially extending surface.

4. A centrifuge having a central axis of rotation, wherein, The centrifuge includes: a) The rotating drum section, which includes: i) at least one feed inlet and at least one first product outlet and a second product outlet; ii) An inner surface defining an internal space, wherein the at least one feed inlet and at least two product outlets are in fluid communication with the internal space; b) A feed flow path that is in fluid communication with the at least one feed inlet and the internal space of the drum; and c) Two or more product flow paths, wherein the two or more product flow paths include at least: i) The first product logistics path; and ii) A second product flow path, wherein the second product flow path has an inlet in the internal space, wherein the second product flow path includes a space between a first radially extending surface and a second radially extending surface, and wherein at least one of the first radially extending surface and the second radially extending surface includes at least one discrete flow interference member located in the second product flow path to interrupt the flow of the second product flow, wherein the first product flow path is located between the second product flow path and the central axis of rotation. The drum section includes a drum bottom and a drum top, and the inner surface of the drum bottom includes at least one discrete flow interference member to interrupt the flow along the inner surface of the drum bottom.

5. A centrifuge having a central axis of rotation, wherein, The centrifuge includes: a) The rotating drum section, which includes: i) at least one feed inlet and at least one first product outlet and a second product outlet; ii) An inner surface defining an internal space, wherein the at least one feed inlet and at least two product outlets are in fluid communication with the internal space; b) A feed flow path that is in fluid communication with the at least one feed inlet and the internal space of the drum; and c) Two or more product flow paths, wherein the two or more product flow paths include at least: i) The first product logistics path; and ii) A second product flow path, wherein the second product flow path has an inlet in the internal space, wherein the second product flow path includes a space between a first radially extending surface and a second radially extending surface, and wherein at least one of the first radially extending surface and the second radially extending surface includes at least one discrete flow interference member located in the second product flow path to interrupt the flow of the second product flow, wherein the first product flow path is located between the second product flow path and the central rotation axis; d) A plurality of radially extending structural spacer ribs between the first radially extending surface and the second radially extending surface, wherein adjacent structural spacer ribs define a portion of the second product flow path, and wherein the at least one discrete flow interference member is positioned between adjacent structural spacer ribs.

6. The centrifuge according to claim 5, wherein, The plurality of radially extending structural spacer ribs include eight radially extending structural spacer ribs, and wherein the at least one discrete flow interference member positioned between adjacent structural spacer ribs includes three or more discrete flow interference members positioned between adjacent structural spacer ribs.

7. The centrifuge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one discrete flow interference member attached to the first radially extending surface is integrally formed on the first radially extending surface or attached to the first radially extending surface using fasteners. and / or The at least one discrete flow interference member attached to the second radially extending surface is integrally formed on the second radially extending surface or attached to the second radially extending surface using fasteners.

8. The centrifuge according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The at least one discrete flow interference element comprises 20 to 600 discrete flow interference elements.

9. A centrifuge having a central axis of rotation, wherein, The centrifuge includes: a) The rotating drum section, which includes: i) at least one feed inlet and at least one first product outlet and a second product outlet; ii) An inner surface defining an internal space, wherein the at least one feed inlet and at least two product outlets are in fluid communication with the internal space; b) A feed flow path that is in fluid communication with the at least one feed inlet and the internal space of the drum; and c) Two or more product flow paths, wherein the two or more product flow paths include at least: i) The first product logistics path; and ii) A second product flow path, wherein the second product flow path has an inlet in the internal space, wherein the second product flow path includes a space between the first radially extending surface and the second radially extending surface, and d) A plurality of discrete flow interference elements located in the second product flow path to interrupt the flow of the second product flow, wherein at least one of the plurality of discrete flow interference elements is circumferentially and radially offset relative to at least one of the other discrete flow interference elements in the second product flow path. Wherein, at least one of the first radially extending surface and the second radially extending surface includes at least one discrete flow interference member, and wherein the first product flow path is located between the second product flow path and the central rotation axis.

10. The centrifuge according to any one of claims 1 to 6 and 9, wherein, The second product flow path is adjacent to the inner surface of the drum, and wherein the second product flow path has an inlet adjacent to the inner surface of the drum.

11. The centrifuge according to any one of claims 1 to 6 and 9, wherein, It also includes a plurality of discs positioned in the internal space of the drum, wherein each disc has an outer diameter and a central opening having an inner diameter, wherein each disc is stacked adjacent to and spaced apart from at least one other disc to form a gap between the adjacent discs, wherein the gap between the adjacent discs defines a liquid portion flow path such that the liquid portion can flow toward the inner diameter, wherein each liquid portion flow path is in fluid communication with the first product flow path.

12. The centrifuge according to claim 11, wherein, It also includes a separate disc positioned between the outermost disc of the at least one or more discs and the inner surface of the drum portion, wherein the first radially extending surface includes the inner surface of the drum portion, and the second radially extending surface includes the surface of the separate disc adjacent to the inner surface of the drum portion.

13. The centrifuge according to claim 12, wherein, The vertical distance between the inner surface of the drum and the surface of the separating disc adjacent to the inner surface of the drum is equal to or greater than the shortest vertical distance between any adjacent discs, and also includes a feed pipe positioned along the central axis of the centrifuge to define a feed flow path, wherein the feed pipe has an inlet and an outlet.

14. The centrifuge according to any one of claims 1 to 6 and 9, wherein, The first radially extending surface includes at least a sidewall portion, and the second radially extending surface includes at least a region, wherein the sidewall portion and the region define an inlet of the second product flow path, and wherein at least the sidewall portion and / or the region includes the at least one discrete flow interference member located in the second product flow path, wherein the sidewall portion is a first sidewall portion and the region is a first region, wherein the first radially extending surface further includes at least a second sidewall portion and the second radially extending surface further includes at least a second region, and the centrifuge further includes one or more discrete flow interference members located on the second sidewall portion and / or the second region and in the second product flow path, and wherein the first region includes a first surface facing the first sidewall portion and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and the centrifuge further includes one or more discrete flow interference members located on the second surface.

15. The centrifuge according to any one of claims 1 to 6 and 9, wherein, It also includes a third product flow path, wherein the third product flow path is located between the second product flow path and the first product flow path.

16. A centrifuge having a central axis of rotation, wherein, The centrifuge includes: a) The rotating drum section, which includes: i) at least one feed inlet and at least one first product outlet and a second product outlet; ii) An inner surface defining an internal space, wherein the at least one feed inlet and at least two product outlets are in fluid communication with the internal space; b) A feed flow path that is in fluid communication with the at least one feed inlet and the internal space of the drum; and c) Two or more product flow paths, wherein the two or more product flow paths include at least: i) The first product logistics path; and ii) A second product flow path, wherein the second product flow path has an inlet in the internal space, wherein the second product flow path includes a space between a first radially extending surface and a second radially extending surface, wherein at least the second radially extending surface includes a plurality of discrete flow interference members located in the space between the first radially extending surface and the second radially extending surface to interrupt the flow of the second product flow, wherein the first product flow path is located between the second product flow path and the central axis of rotation, wherein each of the plurality of discrete flow interference members protrudes toward the first radially extending surface, and wherein each of the plurality of discrete flow interference members has an end adjacent to the first radially extending surface and forms a gap between the end and the first radially extending surface.

17. A centrifuge having a central axis of rotation, wherein, The centrifuge includes: a) The rotating drum section, which includes: i) at least one feed inlet and at least one first product outlet and a second product outlet; ii) An inner surface defining an internal space, wherein the at least one feed inlet and at least two product outlets are in fluid communication with the internal space; b) A feed flow path that is in fluid communication with the at least one feed inlet and the internal space of the drum; c) Two or more product flow paths, wherein the two or more product flow paths include at least: i) The first product logistics path; and ii) A second product flow path, wherein the second product flow path has an inlet in the internal space, wherein the second product flow path includes a space between a first radially extending surface and a second radially extending surface, wherein at least the second radially extending surface includes a plurality of discrete flow interference members located in the space between the first radially extending surface and the second radially extending surface to interrupt the flow of the second product flow, wherein the first product flow path is located between the second product flow path and the central axis of rotation, and wherein each of the plurality of discrete flow interference members protrudes toward the first radially extending surface; d) A stack of discs positioned within the internal space of the drum, wherein each disc has an outer diameter and a central opening having an inner diameter, wherein each disc is adjacent to and spaced apart from at least one other disc in the stack to form a gap between adjacent discs, wherein the gap between adjacent discs defines a flow path configured to separate the feed flow into at least a first product flow and a second product flow, wherein the first product flow flows toward the inner diameter and is in fluid communication with the first product flow path, wherein the second product flow flows toward the outer diameter and is in fluid communication with the inlet of the second product flow path, and wherein the inlet of the second product flow path is spaced apart from a plurality of discs.

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