Patent ID: 6021787
Filing Date: 2000-02-08
Classification: B01D,B08B

Abstract:
A method for cleaning unconsolidated solid material from a separating vessel having a hollow interior for continuously receiving a liquid and entrained unconsolidated solid material denser than the liquid wherein the vessel has an aperture for continuously discharging the liquid and further has a valve engaged with the vessel for selectively accessing the vessel interior, said method comprising the steps of:placing a nozzle in communication with the valve at an elevation below the vessel interior;opening the valve to place the nozzle in communication with the vessel interior;discharging a pressurized fluid stream through said nozzle to displace the solid material;controlling the placement of said pressurized fluid stream as the pressurized fluid stream is discharged through said nozzle; andwithdrawing solid material from the vessel interior through said valve.