Abstract

System and method for treating particulate solids comprises a processor for providing contaminated particulate solids at a predetermined apparent density and a screw feeder for transporting a water-based slurry of the contaminated particulate solids through an ultrasound signal of sufficient size, strength and duration to cause the contaminants to separate from the particulate solids. One or more stacks of ultrasonic transducers arranged around the screw feeder may be employed in which the diameter of each transducer preferably is substantially the same as the pitch of the screw feeder.

IPC Classes  ?

• B02C 23/10 - Separating or sorting of material, associated with crushing or disintegrating with separator arranged in discharge path of crushing or disintegrating zone
• B08B 3/12 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration by sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
• B01J 19/10 - Processes employing the direct application of electric or wave energy, or particle radiationApparatus therefor employing sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
• B01J 19/20 - Stationary reactors having moving elements inside in the form of helices, e.g. screw reactors
• B03B 5/02 - Washing granular, powdered or lumpy materialsWet separating using shaken, pulsated or stirred beds as the principal means of separation
• C22B 1/00 - Preliminary treatment of ores or scrap
• C23G 1/24 - Cleaning or pickling metallic material with solutions or molten salts with neutral solutions
• C23G 3/00 - Apparatus for cleaning or pickling metallic material

Abstract

System and method for treating particulate solids comprises a screw feeder for transporting a water-based slurry of contaminated particulate solids through an ultrasound signal of sufficient size, strength and duration to cause the contaminants to separate from the particulate solids. One or more stacks of ultrasonic transducers arranged around the screw feeder may be employed in which the diameter of each transducer preferably is substantially the same as the pitch of the screw feeder.

IPC Classes  ?

• B03B 7/00 - Combinations of wet processes or apparatus with other processes or apparatus, e.g. for dressing ores or garbage
• B01J 19/10 - Processes employing the direct application of electric or wave energy, or particle radiationApparatus therefor employing sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
• B01J 19/20 - Stationary reactors having moving elements inside in the form of helices, e.g. screw reactors
• B03B 5/02 - Washing granular, powdered or lumpy materialsWet separating using shaken, pulsated or stirred beds as the principal means of separation
• C22C 1/00 - Making non-ferrous alloys