Centrifugal creamerIn 1881, a centrifugal separator, was patented by Edwin J. Houston and Elihu Thomson (No. 239,659). A vessel spins inside a case that receives the lighter components separated "by the action of centrifugal force," while heavier components drain through an opening in the same tubular shaft by which the vessel is rotated. The separating vessel is swelled at the bottom, such as the frustrum of a cone, and fitted with a horizontal deflecting plate a short distance above the bottom which extends to a short distance from the side. The liquid to be separated is supplied through a central feedtube, enabling continous operation. The patent suggested various uses, including separating milk and cream or clearing muddy water for paper making. |
