Patent ID: 6638435
Filing Date: 2003-10-28
Classification: B01D

Abstract:
A method for removing fluid from a vessel comprising:a) placing a sump line in a substantially empty vessel, said sump line comprising: a line having a pump end and a mouth end, said pump end configured to operatively engage a pump; a first strainer basket positioned at said mouth end, said first strainer basket having a top, a bottom opposite said top, sidewalls extending between said top and said bottom, and a plurality of apertures in said first strainer basket, said first strainer basket configured to require fluid to pass through said first strainer basket to enter said mouth end of said line; and a second strainer basket enclosing said first strainer basket, said second strainer basket having a top, a bottom, sidewalls extending between said top and said bottom, and a plurality of openings in said second strainer basket that are larger than the apertures in said first strainer basket, said second strainer basket configured to require fluid to pass through said second strainer basket to enter said first strainer basket, and wherein said second strainer basket is separate from walls of said vessel; b) loading said vessel with a solid cargo, directly over said first basket of said sump line; c) allowing said vessel to at least partially fill with fluid; d) connecting said pump end of said line to a pump; e) operating said pump to remove said fluid from said vessel through said sump line.