Concentrator for solids in a liquid medium

摘要

A solids concentrator for a liquid and solid mixture utilizing a first container including an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion has a transverse dimension that is larger than the transverse dimension of the lower portion. A second container fits within the first container and includes upper and lower portions that are configured to fit within the first container. The upper portion of the first and second containers forms a channel or chamber therebetween. Another chamber is formed between the lower portions of the first and second container, but is narrower across than the first chamber. The flowable liquid and solid mixture is introduced into the first chamber to induce a swirling flow to the second chamber and the inner space of the second container at the bottom of the concentrator. A solid-rich portion of the liquid solid mixture is removed from the lower portion of the inner space of the second chamber or the second chamber itself. The solids-lean portion of the mixture is removed from the upper portion of the inner space of the second chamber.