Automated blood component separation system

An automatic system and method for the separation of blood into component parts includes a conically shaped collection and separation bag, component bags connected to the collection and separation bag, a sensor, valves to seal the connections between the component bags and the collection and separation bag, a centrifuge and a controller for controlling the process. Blood is placed in the collection and separation bag and is separated by centrifuging. The components are removed from the collection and separation bag either directly or indirectly by the centrifugal force into the component bags. Flow of the components is directed by automatic opening and closing of the valves in response to the position of the interface between the separated components determined by the sensor or elapsed time.