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Apparatus and method for separating and concentrating fluids containing multiple components

  • US 8,567,609 B2
  • Filed: 04/19/2011
  • Issued: 10/29/2013
  • Est. Priority Date: 05/25/2006
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A separation system for separating at least one component of a multiple component material with a centrifugal force, the separation system comprising:

  • a first buoy member having an exterior perimeter defined by an exterior wall, the first buoy member including a passage through the first buoy member and within the exterior perimeter, where the first buoy member further includes a first surface that is positioned a distance from a top edge defined by a side of the first buoy member, where the passage is formed at least in part through the first surface, and a second surface inclined towards the first surface;

    a connection member operably connected to the first buoy member;

    a second buoy member operably connected to the connection member, wherein a distance between the second buoy member and the first buoy member is operable to be formed so that at least a first surface of the second buoy member is operable to be spaced a distance from the first buoy member;

    a valve assembly including a gate member biased towards the first buoy member to contact the first buoy member and close the passage through the first buoy member;

    a hinge portion positioned between the gate member and the connection member to hingedly bias the gate member towards the first buoy member; and

    a valve support portion extending from the gate member and surrounding at least a portion of the connection member;

    wherein the hinge portion is formed between the gate member and the valve support portion.

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