High-tension electrostatic classifier and separator, and associated method

US6797908B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Outokumpu Oyj · FI

Inventors

• Eric S. Yan · Orange Park, US
• Thomas J. Grey · Jacksonville, US
• Kevin McHenry · Jacksonville, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 10, 2002
• Grant date: Sep 28, 2004
• Expiry date: Sep 3, 2022

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B03C7/06
• WIPO field: Chemical engineering
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

The electrostatic classifier and separator is supported by a housing and includes a corona classifier section for classifying particulate materials according to size. Corona element supplies mobile ions for bombarding particulate materials dropping down a passageway from a reservoir. A splitter and screen may be included in the passageway to direct particulate materials into respective fractions. First separator section receives fine to middle size fractions and second separator section receives middle to coarse size fractions. A support frame having adjustable slots supports a plurality of static electrodes. Corona element for emitting a corona charge is spaced generally in a first quadrant of first separator section. A rotatable brush and an alternating current wiper may be included for removing fine to middle size nonconductive fractions from first separator section. Additional splitter and/or a baffle may be included to help guide particulate material fractions into respective containers, onto a conveyor belt or the like. In an alternate embodiment, the corona classifier section may be housed and powered separately and independently from first and second separator sections.