Liquid separator for gas analyzer

Abstract

A liquid separator for a gas analyzer is provided comprising a sample gas inlet; a sample gas outlet; and a separation chamber in fluid communication with the gas inlet and gas outlet. The separation chamber is provided with a smooth, planar upper wall and a smooth planar lower wall, the upper and lower walls being substantially parallel and having a small uniform clearance therebetween. A motor is provided for rotating the lower wall of the separation chamber about a central axis normal to the surfaces of the upper and lower walls. The gas outlet is disposed on the central axis of the rotating lower wall. The gas inlet is disposed off of the central axis. A vacuum is applied to the sample gas outlet to draw sample gas through the separation chamber. A collection chamber is provided which surrounds the separation chamber for receiving liquids and other debris separated from the sample gas flow by contact with the rotating lower wall and centrifugal acceleration imparted thereto by the lower wall. A vacuum is also applied to the collection chamber to facilitate the exhaust of liquid and other debris from the separation chamber. The rapid response time and low flow rates of the separator make it particularly suitable for use in breath-by-breath, human gas analysis such as the art of capnography.