Importance

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Abstract

A separation plate (10) includes a first surface (10a) and an opposing second surface. A plurality of teardrop-shaped virtual impactor projections (12) are provided on the first surface, preferably in a plurality of rows (13a, 13b, 13c). Each projection includes a convex leading profile (18) facing a fluid stream (16), and two concave side surfaces (19) that are positioned to define a tapered downstream portion. The convex leading profile may include a concave portion (20). The concave portion defines a virtual impact void therethrough. The virtual impact void defines a terminal end of a passageway that extends through the separation plate to communicate with the second surface. When particle-laden fluid is caused to flow along the first surface, a major portion of the fluid containing a minor portion of particles flows around the teardrop-shaped virtual impactor projections along the first surface. A minor portion of the fluid containing a major portion of particles is collected near the convex leading profiles of the projections, and enters the concave portions and the virtual impact voids of the projections. The minor portion of the fluid then travels through the passageways to the second surface of the separation plate, where it can be collected, analyzed, or processed further.

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First Claim