The feed suspension is introduced through an inlet pipe into the feed zone of the conveyor where it is accelerated and directed into the interior of the bowl. The settled solids are conveyed axially towards the small end of the bowl by means of the screw conveyor, which rotates at a slightly different speed than the bowl. On the way to the discharge ports the solids are lifted out of the pond up along the dry beach. The solids are finally discharged from the bowl through the discharge ports into the collecting chamber of the casing that surrounds the bowl. From there the solids are removed by gravity through the outlet funnel. The liquid phase forming a hollow cylinder due to the centrifugal force, and flows towards the large end of the bowl. There the liquid overflows adjustable plate dams into the centrate chamber of the casing and is discharged by gravity.