Patent ID: 7393456
Filing Date: 2008-07-01
Classification: B01D,C02F

Abstract:
1. In a settlement tank that receives liquids and solids, a method of concentrating and removing at least some of said solids from the settlement tank, said method comprising the steps of: providing a collection trough within said settlement tank, wherein said collection trough has at least one outlet port leading thereto; providing a press head that includes a perforated plate and flaps that enable water to pass through said perforated plate in only one direction; providing at least one actuator that moves said press head vertically between a first position located inside said collection trough and a second position located above said collection trough; holding said press head in said second position above said collection trough, therein enabling solids in said settlement tank to collect in said collection trough; utilizing said actuator to move said press head to said first position within said trough, wherein some water contained within said collection trough passes through said press head and said press head concentrates solids within said collection trough; and selectively opening said at least one outlet port to enable contents from said collection trough to flow out of said settlement tank.