Automated centrifugation device and methods to continuously separate components from different mixtures

Abstract

This invention relates to a continuous flow centrifugation device and method of using the device for separation of solids, particles, liquids, or gases from a mixture containing them. The device contains rotating separation chamber in which incoming material continuously enters the chamber via an inlet and the separated materials continuously flow out via two outlets. Solids or heavier materials exit from an outlet tubing, whose opening is placed in a space that is farthest from the center of rotation and has the highest centrifugal force. The liquid/supernatant outlet is placed in the space that is closer to the center of rotation with the lowest centrifugal force. The reference of placement of inlet to solids outlet is in the same direction as the direction of rotation so that the flow of incoming material, directed from inlet to solids outlet, is in the same direction as the direction of rotation. All product contact surfaces can be disposable and diverse separation methods for different applications can be executed in a fully automated or manual manner by a controller that manages different inputs and outputs of system components.