Centrifugal separator

A centrifuge for the separation or enrichment of gaseous isotopes is disclosed. A stationary shaft both ends of which are fixed to the opposing side walls of a stationary sealed vessel suspends and supports therewithin a rotary drum integrally joined to a hollow rotary shaft projecting therefrom. By means of a volute fan mounted at one end cap of the rotary drum process gases are fed into the drum through an axial passage within the stationary shaft. Mounted to the stationary shaft within the drum in the vicinity of the opposite end thereof are scoop mechanisms adapted to remove gaseous fractions from the system by feeding them through axial passages provided within the shaft. Means are provided to permit a portion of the removed gases to be employed as a lubricant for gas bearings and a sealant for shaft sealing devices. (K.J. Owens)