Index >> Microbes and Atmosphere >> Centrifugation

There is another device based on this principle, the cyclone which is a tangential inlet and return flow sampling device. These samplers are able to sample a wide range of air volumes (1-400 L/ min), depending on the size of the unit. The unit operates by applying suction to the outlet tube, which causes air to enter the upper chamber of the unit at an angle. The flow of air falls into a characteristic tangential flow pattern which effectively circulates air around and down along the inner surface of the conical glass housing. As a result of the increased centrifugal forces imposed on particles in the air stream, the particles are sedimented out. Analysis is performed by rinsing the sample with an appropriate liquid medium, collection of the medium and subsequent assay by standard methodologies.