METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SEPARATING COMPONENTS HAVING DIFFERENT VISCOSITES AND/OR SIZES FROM A COMPOSITION

摘要

A method and an apparatus for separating components having different viscosities and/or sizes from a composition are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a rotatable hollow drum having an outer surface which is perforated, and an endless belt (3) in engagement with a portion of the outer surface of said drum. The belt and said outer surface define an input zone (6) where the belt and the outer surface engage. The input zone has the form of a wedge, and in use, the belt rotates synchronously with the outer surface. The apparatus further comprises an adjustable compression roller positioned to press the belt against said portion of the outer surface of the hollow drum, and a device (13) positioned within the input zone. The device tends to urge the compression belt away from the outer surface. The apparatus has an improved input capability, particularly for bulky material.