Coarse particle separator for toner particles

Abstract

A coarse particle separator for separating and collecting coarse toner particles having a size greater than substantially 500 microns comprises a tank having an inlet and an outlet, the separation being performed within the tank. The inlet to the tank is located at a lower portion of the tank and is connected to an eductor station by an eductor line. Particles are introduced to the inlet by the eductor line at a velocity of approximately 4500 ft/min. The separation of coarse and light toner particles can be performed by reducing the flow velocity so the coarse particles settle out by their own weight. A flow baffle made of a 75 micron screen hinders the passage of coarse particles. The outlet outputs light toner particles to at least one toner storage bin. Alternatively, the tank can have a conical-shaped upper portion which induces a cyclone effect in the flow of toner particles, the cyclone effect resulting in the collection of coarse particles in the lower portion of the tank. The apex of the conical-shaped upper portion terminates in the outlet. The inlet is located at a side of the tank such that a clearance is provided below the inlet for collection of the coarse toner particles.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.