IPC Definitions - January 01, 2012
B04C - Definition
This subclass covers:
Apparatus for separating, mixing or like treating (e.g. drying, extracting, purifying) in which centrifugal or centripetal effects are generated by free vortex flow, otherwise than by rotary bowls, rotors or curved passages. The free vortex flow generated may follow a flat spiral, have an unchanged or constant axial direction, or have a reversible axial direction. The mixtures treated are composed of the following physical states of matter:
Combinations of such apparatus with other devices, e.g. fans.
Accessories for such devices e.g. safety or control devices.
Relationship between large subject matter areas
Separation of isotopes of the same chemical element is covered by B01D 59/00, whatever process or apparatus is employed.
Processes in general that use free vortex flow, e.g. cyclones, for separating, extracting or purifying components of mixtures are covered in subclass B01D, and not in subclass B04C with the apparatus for accomplishing these processes.
References relevant to classification in this subclass
This subclass does not cover:
Combinations of cyclones with filters, for separating particles from gases or vapours | B01D 50/00 |
Combinations of cyclones with electrostatic precipitating arrangements | B03C 3/14 |
Cyclonic type combustion apparatus using fluent fuel | F23C 3/00 |
Vortex burners e.g. for cyclone-type combustion apparatus | F23D 1/00 |
Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:
Arrangement or disposition of cyclones or other devices with centrifugal action, in suction cleaners | A47L 9/16 |
Separation in general | B01D |
Jet mills | B02C 19/06 |
Magnetic or electrostatic separators | B03C |
Centrifugal separators | B04B |
Selective separation of solid materials carried by or dispersed in gas currents, using centrifugal force | B07B 7/08 |
Mounting or connecting of lubricant purifying means relative to a machine or engine | F01M 11/03 |
Crankcase ventilating or breathing having means for purifying air before leaving crankcase, e.g. removing oil | F01M 13/04 |
Exhaust or silencing apparatus for machines or engines having means for removing solid constituents of exhaust, using inertial or centrifugal separators | F01N 3/037 |
Fluid dynamics in general | F15D |
Compression machines, plant or systems using vortex effect | F25B 9/04 |
Analysing materials by determining their physical or chemical properties, e.g. while the centrifugal or centripetal effects generated by a vortex flow are acting on the sample | G01N |