Abstract:
A system and method to extract particulate material from a liquid. The system includes a cylindrical tank forming a hollow cavity and having a top end and a bottom end, a cyclonic separator rigidly attached to the top end of the cylindrical tank and in fluid communication with the hollow cavity, an inflow line coupled to the cyclonic separator, an outflow line coupled to the cyclonic separator, a pump in fluid communication with outflow line, and a fluid reservoir in fluid communication with the inflow line. The method includes capturing particulate matter and liquid in a reservoir, partially separating the particulate matter and liquid within the reservoir, channeling the partially separated particulate matter and liquid to a cyclonic separator positioned above a tank, separating the partially separated particulate matter and liquid within the cyclonic separator, and capturing the particulate matter within the tank.

Description:
BACKGROUND 
       [0001]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0002]    The present invention relates to a system for extracting a particulate material (e.g., an abrasive material such as garnet) from a body of liquid, and in particular to a closed-loop system for extracting a particulate material (e.g., garnet) from a receptacle tank of a water jet cutter into which the particulate is delivered following a cutting operation. 
         [0003]    2. Description of Related Art 
         [0004]    Water jet cutters produce high pressure jets of water containing abrasive particles to cut a variety of materials (e.g., metals, stone, ceramics, etc.). The water jet with the abrasive material (e.g., garnet) is discharged by the water jet cutter at high pressures via a water jet nozzle. However, before the water jet is discharged, an abrasive particulate such as garnet particles are added to facilitate the cutting of the material. The water jet containing the abrasive particulate is ejected through the water jet nozzle onto a work piece, and the water jet containing the abrasive particulate passes through the work piece into a collection or extraction tank below the water jet nozzle. 
         [0005]    One challenge with using water jet cutters is how to remove the abrasive material from the extraction or water jet tank after a water jet cutting operation. One known manner for doing so involves “sweeping” the bottom of the catch tank by directing a flow of the water and abrasive particulate slurry into a centrifugal filtration system. The centrifugal filtration system separates out the particulate from the water by pumping the particulate slurry through a centrifugal separator. A catch basin collects the used particulate and the separated water substantially relieved of the abrasive particulate can then be disposed of or re-circulated into the catch tank to repeat the process of sweeping the abrasive particulate slurry into the centrifugal filtration system. 
         [0006]    However, due to the abrasive character of the particulate the water and particulate slurry is abrasive and can damage the particulate filtration system, including the pump used to draw the particulate slurry through the filtration system (especially in areas around seals of the pump). 
         [0007]    Additionally, systems for removing abrasive material from a catch or extraction tank of a water jet cutter are bulky and heavy. Moreover, such systems are usually connected via rigid piping to a water jet cutter and cannot be readily used with more than one cutter. Accordingly, there is a need for an improved system for removing abrasive materials (e.g., garnet) from a water tank, such as a catch or extraction tank of a water jet cutter. 
         [0008]    Although great strides have been made in the area of systems for removing abrasive material, many shortcomings remain. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0009]    In accordance with one embodiment, a system for extracting a particulate material from a body of liquid is provided. The system includes a tank with a top end and a bottom end, and a pump operatively coupled to the tank via one or more valves. An outflow line coupled to the pump and having an outflow opening can be placed in fluid communication with the body of liquid. The system also includes an inflow line coupled to the tank and having an inflow opening. At least a portion of the inflow line is proximate to the outflow line, so that the inflow opening and the outflow opening are proximate each other. The inflow line, the outflow line, and the tank define a closed loop. The pump is configured to pump liquid from the tank, once the tank has been filled with liquid, to the body of liquid via the outflow line to unsettle the particulate material in the body of liquid, the pump configured to draw a generally equal amount of liquid and particulate material into the tank via the inflow line without the particulate material passing through the pump, said particulate material collected in the tank. 
         [0010]    In accordance with another embodiment, a method for using an extraction system to extract particulate material from a liquid tank is provided. The method includes inserting a first conduit into a liquid tank, the first conduit coupled to a pump via a three-way valve. The method also includes inserting an outflow line into the liquid tank, the outflow line comprising one or more nozzles having a distal end, and inserting an inflow line into the liquid tank, the inflow line comprising a collector having a distal end, the collector and the one or more nozzles being proximate each other. The method also includes operating the pump to pump liquid from an extraction tank through an outflow line out of the one or more nozzles to unsettle the particulate material, the particulate material drawn through the collector and the inflow line into the extraction tank without passing through the pump. The inflow line, the outflow line, and the extraction tank define a closed system. 
         [0011]    In yet another embodiment, a system for extracting a particulate material from a water jet tank that holds particulate material from a water jet cutting operation is provided. The system includes a tank, and a pump operatively coupled to the tank. An outflow line coupled to the pump and having an outflow opening can be placed in fluid communication with the water jet tank. The system also includes an inflow line coupled to the tank and having an inflow opening. At least a portion of the inflow line is proximate to the outflow line so that the inflow line and the outflow line are proximate each other. The inflow line, the outflow line, and the tank define a closed loop. The pump is configured to pump liquid from the tank to the water jet tank via the outflow line to unsettle the particulate material in the water jet tank, the pump configured to draw a generally equal amount of water and particulate material into the tank via the inflow line without the particulate material passing through the pump. 
     
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0012]    The novel features believed characteristic of the embodiments of the present application are set forth in the appended claims. However, the embodiments themselves, as well as a preferred mode of use, and further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
           [0013]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a system for extracting a particulate material from a body of liquid; 
           [0014]      FIG. 2  is a top view of the extraction system of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0015]      FIG. 3  is a side view of the extraction system of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0016]      FIG. 4  is a front view of the extraction system of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0017]      FIG. 5A  is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a distal end of an injection assembly in  FIG. 4 ; 
           [0018]      FIG. 5B  is an enlarged front view of the injection assembly in  FIG. 5A ; 
           [0019]      FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  6 - 6  in  FIG. 3 ; 
           [0020]      FIG. 7  is an enlarged schematic front view of another embodiment of a distal end of an injection assembly of a system for extracting particulate material from a body of liquid; 
           [0021]      FIG. 8A  is an enlarged perspective view of another embodiment of a distal end of an injection assembly of a system for extracting particulate material from a body of liquid; 
           [0022]      FIG. 8B  is an enlarged bottom view of the distal end of the injection assembly of  FIG. 8A ; 
           [0023]      FIG. 9  is a simplified schematic of the extraction system of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0024]      FIG. 10  is a simplified schematic of an extraction system in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present application; 
           [0025]      FIG. 11  is a front view of the separator of the system of  FIG. 10 ; 
           [0026]      FIGS. 12-14  are simplified schematics of extraction systems in accordance with alternative embodiments of the present application; 
           [0027]      FIG. 15  is a top view of the extraction system of  FIG. 14 ; 
           [0028]      FIG. 16  is a cross-sectional view of the extraction holding reservoir of the extraction system of  FIG. 15  taken at XVI-XVI; and 
           [0029]      FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view of an extraction holding reservoir in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present application. 
       
    
    
       [0030]    While the system and method of use of the present application is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the description herein of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the invention to the particular embodiment disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present application as defined by the appended claims. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
       [0031]    Illustrative embodiments of the system and method of use of the present application are provided below. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any actual embodiment, numerous implementation-specific decisions will be made to achieve the developer&#39;s specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. 
         [0032]    The system and method of use will be understood, both as to its structure and operation, from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description. Several embodiments of the system are presented herein. It should be understood that various components, parts, and features of the different embodiments may be combined together and/or interchanged with one another, all of which are within the scope of the present application, even though not all variations and particular embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the mixing and matching of features, elements, and/or functions between various embodiments is expressly contemplated herein so that one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate from this disclosure that the features, elements, and/or functions of one embodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment as appropriate, unless described otherwise. 
         [0033]    In the following detailed description, terms of orientation such as “top,” “bottom,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “rear,” and “end” are used herein to simplify the description of the context of the illustrated embodiments. Likewise, terms of sequence, such as “first” and “second,” are used to simplify the description of the illustrated embodiments. Because other orientations and sequences are possible, however, the present invention should not be limited to the illustrated orientation. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other orientations of the various components described above are possible. 
         [0034]      FIG. 1  illustrates one embodiment of a system  100  for extracting a particulate material (e.g., abrasive particulate material) from a body of liquid (e.g., water). The system  100  can be used to extract garnet from a catch or extraction tank (e.g., water jet tank) of a water jet cutter. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the system  100  can be used to extract other particulate matter (e.g., other abrasive materials) from a body of liquid, and is not limited to the extraction of garnet or abrasive material from a catch tank or water jet tank of a water jet cutter. 
         [0035]    In the illustrated embodiment, the system  100  includes an extraction tank  10 . In one embodiment, the tank  10  can have a cylindrical shape and be between about 4-7 feet tall and between about 20 and 30 inches in diameter. In another embodiment, the tank  10  can have a cylindrical shape and be about 5 feet tall and about 27 inches in diameter. However, the tank  10  can have other suitable cross-sectional shapes (e.g., square, oval) and dimensions. In one embodiment, the tank  10  is made of steel (e.g., carbon steel), or other suitable materials. 
         [0036]    As best shown in  FIG. 1 , the extracting system  100  can include a bottom door  14  movably coupleable to the tank  10 . In the illustrated embodiment, the door  14  is coupled to a bottom end  10   a  of the tank  10 . A coupling mechanism  16  couples the door  14  to the tank  10 . The coupling mechanism  16  allows movement of the bottom door  14  relative to the tank  10 , where the bottom door  14  may include one or more support members or sleds  14   a.  In one embodiment, the door  14  can be coupled to the tank  10  via a hinge unit  15  that allows the door  14  to pivot relative to the bottom end  10   a  of the tank  10 . In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom door  14  can be moved between an open position away from the bottom end  10   a  of the tank  10  to a closed position adjacent the bottom end  10   a  of the tank  10 . 
         [0037]    The coupling mechanism  16  can also include an actuation mechanism  16   a  that facilitates the movement of the bottom door  14  between said open and closed positions relative to the bottom end  10   a  of the tank  10 . In one embodiment, the actuation mechanism  16   a  can be a hydraulic assembly that can include a hydraulic cylinder  16   b  in fluid communication with a hydraulic pump  16   c  via a fluid line  16   d.  In the illustrated embodiment, the hydraulic pump  16   c  can be manually operated via a pressure release valve  16   e  to actuate the hydraulic cylinder  16   b  to move the bottom door  14  between the open position and the closed position relative to tank  10 . In another embodiment, the hydraulic pump  16   c  can be actuated electronically (e.g., using a computer controller). In still another embodiment, the actuation mechanism  16   a  can be a pneumatic system. In yet another embodiment, the actuation mechanism  16   a  can include an electric motor that operates a drive mechanism to move the door  14  relative to the tank  10 . However, the actuation mechanism  16   a  can have other configurations. 
         [0038]    With reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the extracting system  100  can also include a pump  30 , such as a diaphragm pump. However, other suitable pumps can be used. In the illustrated embodiment, the pump  30  can be mounted to a top end  10   b  of the extraction tank  10 . However, in another embodiment, the pump  30  can be mounted to the tank  10  at another location, or can be separate from (e.g., unmounted on) the tank  10 . In one embodiment, the pump  30  can be an air powered diaphragm pump, such as model number 4157K844 by McMaster Carr. However, other suitable pump types can be used. 
         [0039]    With continued reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the pump  30  can be in fluid communication with first and second valves  32   a,    32   b,  where the pump  30  is coupled to the first valve  32   a  via a first fluid line  34   a  and coupled to the second valve  32   b  via a second fluid line  34   b.  In one embodiment, the valves  32   a - 32   b  are preferably three-way valves known in the art. Suitable valves  32   a - 32   b  are manufactured by McMaster Carr, such as 3-way, four position valve model 45695K35. However, the valves  32   a - 32   b  can be other suitable valve types. The fluid lines  34   a,    34   b  can in one embodiment include flexible tubing or hoses (e.g., rubber hoses). In another embodiment, the fluid lines  34   a ,  34   b  can include rigid pipe portions including one or more manifold pipes, tubes, and turns. 
         [0040]    The system  100  can have a tank  10  with at least one aperture  25  that allows a user to look into the tank  10 , for example, to look at the contents of the tank  10  (e.g., the level of abrasive material in the tank  10 ). The aperture  25  can be covered with glass, Plexiglas, or other transparent or translucent material that allows a user to see the inside of the tank  10 . 
         [0041]    The first valve  32   a  is preferably coupled to a first flow passage  36  using a coupling  35  that extends through the top end  10   b  into the tank  10 . The first flow passage  36  can in one embodiment be a flexible hose portion commonly available in the art. In another embodiment, the first flow passage  36  can be a rigid pipe portion. The first flow passage  36  can in one embodiment have a one-inch diameter. However, the first flow passage  36  can have other suitable sizes. 
         [0042]    The second valve  32   b  is preferably coupled via a coupling  37  to a second flow passage  38  (see  FIG. 6 ) that extends through the top end  10   b  into the tank  10 . The second flow passage  38  can be a T-junction with outlet passages  38   a,    38   b,  as illustrated in  FIG. 6 . The second flow passage  38  can in one embodiment be a flexible hose portion commonly available in the art. In another embodiment, the second flow passage  38  can be a rigid pipe portion. The second flow passage  38  can in one embodiment have a one-inch diameter. However, the second flow passage  38  can have other suitable sizes. 
         [0043]    In  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the extracting system  100  can include an air pressure regulator  42  and an air supply hose  44  coupled to the pump  30 . In one embodiment, the air pressure regulator  42  is mounted on the tank  10 , or can be separate (e.g., unmounted) from the tank  10 . The air supply hose  44  may be a flexible hose portion commonly available in the art. An air supply system can be coupled to the air pressure regulator  42  in any way known in the art (e.g., quick release coupling between an air supply hose and the air pressure regulator  42 ). 
         [0044]    Additionally, the extracting system  100  can in one embodiment have a pressure relief valve  12  and pressure gauge  13  coupled to the tank  10 . The pressure gauge  13  allows the user to measure the amount of air pressure in the tank  10 . The pressure gauge  13  in one embodiment can be mounted on the top end  10   a  of the tank  10 , but can be mounted at another location. Additionally, the tank  10  can have a pressure relief valve  12  to release air from the tank  10  to ensure a vacuum during operation. 
         [0045]    As best shown in  FIG. 2 , the top end  10   b  of tank  10  also shows removable caps  15   a,    15   b.  Removable caps  15   a,    15   b  may in one embodiment have threaded regions to screw onto the corresponding openings on the top end  10   b  so as to provide a generally airtight seal. Other suitable caps known in the art that can couple to the tank via other suitable mechanisms (e.g., latches) that provide an airtight seal may be used. In one embodiment, when precharging the tank  10 , caps  15   a,    15   b  are preferably fastened onto the openings of top end  10   b.  Caps  15   a,    15   b  may be removed following the completion of the extracting process to allow excess water to be removed from the tank  10 , as described further below. 
         [0046]    In  FIG. 3 , when the bottom door  14  is in the closed position, the bottom door  14  can be locked in the closed position via a locking mechanism  20 . The locking mechanism  20  can include one or more mechanisms for fastening the bottom door  14  to the bottom end  10   a  of the tank  10 . In the illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism  20  can include a locking member  22  (e.g., a hook, pin, bolt, or flange of the locking member  22 ) attached to the bottom door  14  via a slot (not shown) in the door  14  and a latch  24  (e.g., a Bombay door pivot hook latch) that can be releasably coupled to the locking member  22  by a nut to fix the position of the bottom door  14  in the closed position. The mechanism  20  can include a support plate  26  attached to the tank  10 , coupled to locking member  22  via latch  24 . In one embodiment, the support plate  26  can be bolted to the tank  10 . In another embodiment, the support plate  26  can be welded to the tank  10 . In the illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism  20  includes a latch  24  that can be removably coupled to the tank  10 . Additionally, the locking member  22  can be a bolt secured to the bottom door  14  via a lockout. However, the locking mechanism  20  can have other suitable configurations, such as a hinged locking mechanism. Advantageously, the bottom door  14  can be selectively locked when, for example, the tank  10  is being filled with water and/or particulate material, but can be selectively unlocked to facilitate the disposal of the particulate material stored in the tank  10 , for example, at a dump site. This allows the easy disposal of the particulate (e.g., garnet) material. 
         [0047]    In  FIG. 4 , the extraction system  100  includes a first flow line  40  removably coupled to the tank  10  at the top end  10   b  thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the flow line  40  can be coupled to the tank  10  via first valve  32   a.  The flow line  40  can be used to fill or pre-charge the tank  10  with a liquid (e.g., water) from a water jet tank or other body of liquid. The system  100  also includes a second flow line  50  operatively coupled to the pump  30  via the second valve  32   b  that can be used to direct a fluid from the tank  10 , through the pump  30  to a water jet tank or other body of liquid. A third flow line  60  can be removably coupled to the tank  10  via coupling  62  and can direct fluid and abrasive material from a water jet tank or other body of liquid to the tank  10 , as further described below. The flow lines  40 ,  50 ,  60  can each include one or more sections, where each section can have a length of about five feet. However, in other embodiments, the sections can have other suitable lengths, as needed for the desired extraction application. 
         [0048]    With continued reference to  FIG. 4 , the second flow line  50  includes an injector head  52  with a nozzle unit  54  attached at a distal end that directs fluid flow out of the second flow line  50  in a desired direction. In a preferred embodiment, injector head  52  includes one or more nozzles. Upon beginning of the extraction process, the pump  30  pumps water from the extraction tank  10  via the first flow passage  36 , first fluid line  34   a , and second flow line  50  into a water jet tank, so that the water flow is delivered via the injector head  52  and the nozzle unit  54  onto the particulate material (e.g., abrasive material, such as garnet) and unsettles the particulate material in the water jet tank. 
         [0049]    In  FIG. 5A , an embodiment of the collector  70  and the injector head  52  is shown in an enlarged cross-sectional view with a bypass conduit  56  (e.g., tube) inside. In one embodiment, the collector  70  and the injector head  52  are coupled to each other and in fluid communication via the bypass conduit  56 . In addition, a portion of the bypass conduit  56  can extend into the collector  70  and a portion of the bypass conduit  56  can extend into the injector head  52 . In one embodiment, the bypass conduit  56  can be a curved rigid pipe portion, but other coupling devices known in the art may also be used. 
         [0050]    Advantageously, the bypass conduit  56  directs liquid flow into the collector  70  that dilutes the abrasive material coming into collector  70  and helps drive the flow of abrasive material and water up the third flow line  60  and into the tank  10 . That is, when water flows from the pump  30  to the second flow line  50 , at least a portion of that flow is redirected into the collector  70 . This redirected flow adds an additional force to drive the abrasive material from the collector  70  through the third flow line  60  at an increased velocity. For example, this can decrease the time needed to fill the tank  10  with abrasive material from approximately 4 hours to about 2.5 hours, or less. 
         [0051]    In  FIG. 5B , the front view of the collector  70 , injector head  52 , and nozzle unit  54  is shown. In one embodiment, the nozzle unit  54  comprises at least two nozzles located at a distal end of injector head  52 . Nozzle unit  54  operates to unsettle abrasive material and drive the flow of water in a desired direction. Preferably, the nozzle unit  54  can include sectioned-off grooves or openings  54   b,    54   c  that direct the flow of water in different directions. At a nozzle end  54   a,  a portion of water flow is delivered in a direction (e.g., substantially transverse to the collector  70 ) to unsettle the abrasive material. At the groove or opening  54   b,  a portion of water flow is delivered in a direction (e.g., substantially longitudinal to the collector  70 ) toward the collector  70  to help drive the unsettled abrasive material into the collector  70  and through the third flow line  60 . At groove or opening  54   c,  a portion of water flow is delivered in a direction (e.g., substantially transverse to the collector  70 ) to help unsettle more of the abrasive material proximate to the collector  70 . The structure of the nozzle unit  54  advantageously operates to efficiently unsettle abrasive material and direct it to and through the collector  70 . 
         [0052]    In  FIG. 6 , a cross-sectional view taken along line  6 - 6  of  FIG. 3  is shown, illustrating the first flow passage  36  and the second flow passage  38  as discussed above. In one embodiment, second flow passage  38  is a T-junction pipe with outlet passages  38   a  and  38   b.  Outlet passages  38   a,    38   b  can be directed towards the aperture(s)  25  so that water can strike and clean the windows of the aperture(s)  25  during the precharge process. Additionally, as discussed above, the first flow passage  36  can have a bore  36   a  (e.g., air relief hole) proximate to the top end  10   b  of the tank  10 . The bore  36   a  can facilitate the venting of air in the tank  10  as water is removed from the tank  10  via first flow passage  36 , valve  32   a,  fluid line  34   a,  and pump  30  (e.g., air that may be trapped in the tank  10  above the end of the flow passages  36 ,  38 , or directed into the tank  10  via the third flow line  60 ). 
         [0053]    Furthermore, the bore  36   a  is sized to allow a sufficient flow of air from the inside of the tank  10  through the first flow passage  36  and pump  30  to ensure air does not build up within the tank  10  to the point where there is no fluid connection (e.g., no closed loop connection) between the tank  10  and the water jet tank via the flow lines  50 ,  60 , which can occur if an amount of air accumulates in the tank  10  that drops the water level in the tank  10  below the end of the first flow passage  36 . However, the bore  36   a  is preferably sized so as to not allow so much air to flow through the first flow passage  36  and pump  30  that causes the pump  30  to fail (e.g., cavitate). In one embodiment, the bore  36   a  has a diameter of about ⅛ inch. However, in other embodiments the bore  36   a  can have a diameter of greater or less than ⅛ inch, such as 1/16 inch or 3/16 inch. 
         [0054]    Also in  FIG. 6 , one or more seals  18  can be disposed on tank  10  so that the seals  18  come in contact with the door  14  when the door  14  is in the closed position. Preferably, the seals  18  inhibit the contents in the tank  10  from leaking out of the bottom end  10   a  when the door  14  is in the closed position (e.g., the seals  18  prevent the leakage of water or abrasive material through the interface between the bottom door  14  and the tank  10 ). In one embodiment, the seals  18  are gaskets. However, a person of ordinary skill in the art may use other seals to prevent the leakage of water or abrasive material. 
         [0055]    With continued reference to  FIG. 6 , the extraction tank  10  can include a pair of forklift receivers  12   a,    12   b  that define slots on opposite sides of the tank  10  to removably receive the forks of a forklift (not shown), thereby allowing the extraction tank  10  to be portable and easily transported as desired (e.g., to different extracting locations, to a dump site to dispose of the extracted material from the extraction tank  10 ). However, in other embodiments the tank  10  does not include the forklift receivers  12   a,    12   b  and can be transported to a desired location via other suitable mechanisms. 
         [0056]    In  FIG. 7 , another embodiment of the collector  70 ′ and the injector head  52 ′ for the extraction tank  10  is shown. The system includes an injector head  52 ′ coupled to the second flow line  50 . In addition, there is a collector  70 ′ that is coupled to the third flow line  60 . The collector  70 ′ can include a filter  74 ′ at a distal portion  70   b  of the collector  70 ′. In one embodiment, the filter  74 ′ can be porous so as to regulate and filter the uptake of abrasive material during suction. The injector head  52 ′ can be positioned relative to a collector  70 ′ as discussed below. The injector head  52 ′ can extend through an opening  72  in a proximal portion  70   a  of the collector  70 ′. In one embodiment, the injector head  52 ′ can have a distal portion  52   a  that extends past a distal portion  70   b  of the collector  70 ′. In another embodiment, the injector head  52 ′ and the collector  70 ′ are coupled via a flange  55 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 8A and 8B . However, in another embodiment, the injector head  52 ′ and the collector  70 ′ can be separate from each other (e.g., not connected). Moreover, the injector head  52 ′ can include one or more filter nozzles  54 . 
         [0057]    Additionally, a distal end  62  of the third flow line  60  can likewise be coupled to the proximal portion  70   a  of the collector  70 ′. In one embodiment the filter  74  can be disposed over an opening of the distal portion  70   b  of the collector  70 ′. In one embodiment, the collector  70 ′ can be cone-shaped. In another embodiment, the collector  70 ′ can be cylindrical-shaped. However, in other embodiments, the collector  70 ′ can have other suitable shapes. The collector  70 ′ can be made of metal in one embodiment. In another embodiment, the collector  70 ′ can be of plastic or another suitable material. 
         [0058]    Additionally, the system  100  can include a handle (not shown) coupled to one or both of the second and third flow lines  50 ,  60 . The handle can be used to move the collector  70  to a desired location, as well as to reposition the injector head  52  relative to the collector  70 . 
         [0059]    In  FIGS. 8A and 8B , another embodiment of a collector  70 ″ and an injector head  52 ″ is shown. The injector head  52 ″ is coupled to the second flow line  50  and the collector  70 ″ is coupled to the third flow line  60 . In the illustrated embodiment, the collector  70 ″ has a generally cylindrical shape. However, the collector  70 ″ can have other suitable shapes. The collector  70 ″ includes a filter  74 ″ at the distal end  70   b  of the collector  70 ″. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal end  52   a  of the injector head  52 ″ extends forward of the distal end  70   b  of the collector  70 ″. Additionally, the injector head  52 ″ and collector  70 ″ can be coupled via a flange  55 . 
         [0060]    In operation, the tank  10  is first filled with water from a body of liquid (e.g., water jet tank) as follows. Initially, removable caps  15   a,    15   b  are fastened to the top end  10   b  of tank  10 . The first flow line  40  is placed below the water level of the body of liquid (e.g., water jet tank). The second flow line  50  and the third flow line  60  are placed away from tank  10  and proximate to the body of liquid. From there, valves  32   a,    32   b  are set to a precharge position, as discussed above. The first valve  32   a  is actuated to place the first flow line  40  in fluid communication with the pump  30  via the first valve  32   a  and first fluid line  34   a,  and the second valve  32   b  is positioned so that the second flow line  50  is isolated from the pump  30  and the pump  30  is in fluid communication with the inside of the tank  10  (e.g., via the second flow passage  38 ). The pump  30  is operated to pump water from a body of liquid to the tank  10  via the first flow line  40 , first valve  32   a,  and first fluid line  34   a.  The air supply hose  44  is connected to the air pressure regulator  42  so that the pump  30  is in fluid communication with the air pressure regulator  42 . An air pressure source is also coupled to the air pressure regulator  42  to supply pressurized air to the pump  30 . Air is turned on to begin precharge so that water is pulled up first flow line  40  through first fluid line  34   a  via first valve  32   a.  Water enters the tank  10  via the second flow passage  38  and through outlet passages  38   a,    38   b.    
         [0061]    Once the tank  10  is filled with water, which can be ascertained when water flows through the third flow line  60  and collector  70 , precharge is complete. At this point, the collector  70  and the injector head  52  are placed below the water level of a body of liquid, and preferably below the level of particulate material in the body of liquid. The first valve  32   a  is positioned to isolate the first flow line  40  from the pump  30  and place the tank  10  in fluid communication with the pump  30  via the first flow passage  36 , first valve  32   a,  and first fluid line  34   a.  Additionally, the second valve  32   b  can be actuated to place the pump  30  in fluid communication with the second flow line  50  via the second fluid line  34   b  and second valve  32   b,  while isolating the pump  30  from the second flow passage  38 . The pump  30  is then operated to pump water from the tank  10  through the first flow passage  36 , first valve  32   a,  first fluid line  34   a  and into the second flow line  50  via the second fluid line  34   b  and the second valve  32   b  to the injector head  52 , which directs the water to the abrasive material to displace the abrasive material from a body of liquid. 
         [0062]    As discussed above, the injector head  52  uses nozzle unit  54  to deliver water in a desired direction and displace the particulate material (e.g., abrasive material, such as garnet). The displaced particulate material is suctioned through the filter  74 , collector  70 , and third flow line  60  into the tank  10  via the suction force created by the flow of water from the tank  10  to the pump  30 . In one embodiment, the collector  70  and injector head  52  are submerged in the particulate material of a body of liquid. Additionally, in one embodiment, suction of the particulate material into the tank  10  begins when about 10 lbs. of vacuum is achieved by the pump  30 , as measured by meters on the tank  10 . Vacuum pressure is measured by the pressure gauge  13 . Further, the flow of particulate material through collector  70  and third flow line  60  into the tank  10  is aided by the bypass conduit  56 , which redirects a portion of water from the injector head  52  to the collector  70 . The combination of the suction force from the pump  30 , the directed delivery of water from the nozzle unit  54 , and the redirected water flow from the bypass conduit  56  function to drive particulate material through the third flow line  60  and into the tank  10 . As the particulate material and water enter the tank  10  via third flow line  60 , the velocity of the suctioned water and particulate material slows down so that the abrasive material can be collected in the tank  10 . 
         [0063]    The system  100  provides an effective way to drain the tank  10  of excess water when the tank  10  is substantially full of abrasive material. Removable caps  15   a  and  15   b  are taken off from the top end  10   b  so that the first flow line  40  can be placed through the opening of where either cap  15   a  or  15   b  was fastened. Valve  32   a  is set to a precharge position and excess water drawn from tank  10 . The flow of water travels from first flow line  40  through first fluid line  34   a  via valve  32   a  to pump  30 . The pump  30  pumps the water through second fluid line  34   b  to second flow line  50  via second valve  32   b.  The water is discharged out of injector head  52  and into a body of liquid (e.g., water jet tank). This may be done until the tank  10  is sufficiently drained of excess water. 
         [0064]    Furthermore, the system  100  can effectively dispose of extracted abrasive material by moving bottom door  14  into an open position via coupling mechanism  16 . The tank  10  can be transported using a forklift to an appropriate location and positioned over a receptacle, container, dump site, or other disposal area. Locking member  22  is loosened and latch  24  is removed from the tank  10 . From there, the pressure release valve  16   e  is opened on the hydraulic pump  16   c  to allow the hydraulic cylinder  16   b  to retract via the hydraulic pump fluid line  16   c.  This causes the bottom door  14  to open relative to the tank  10 , pulling away from the seals  18  and causing extracted abrasive material to fall out of the tank  10 . Any abrasive material remaining on the bottom door can be manually removed by a user. To close the bottom door  14 , a user pumps the pressure release valve  16   e  on hydraulic pump  16   c  to produce pressure on hydraulic cylinder  16   b.    
         [0065]    Referring now  FIG. 9 , a simplified schematic of the operation of system  100  is shown. As depicted, during the pre-charge process, the extraction tank  10  is initially filled with water and particulate material from a fluid reservoir  901 . This can be accomplished by actuating of one or more of the valves  32   a - 32   b  so that water can be pumped by the pump  30  and/or a pump  903  from reservoir  901  to the extraction tank  10  via the first fluid line  1 , e.g., flow line  40 . 
         [0066]    Once the extraction tank  10  has been filled with water, the air is substantially removed from an inner chamber  905  formed by the body of tank  10 . Thus, after the pre-charge process, the tank is substantially air tight and filled with water and particulate matter. It should be appreciated that the air in the tank  10  can advantageously be vented from the tank  10  through the first flow passage  36  and pump  30  via at least one bore  36   a  (e.g., air relief hole) (see  FIG. 6 ) in the first flow passage  36 . 
         [0067]    As shown, the fluid carried within the tank  10  is drawn out in fluid line  2 , e.g., flow line  50 , in fluid communication with pump  30 . The particulate material and the fluid are then drawn from fluid line  3 , which in turn causes circulation in fluid line  4 . 
         [0068]    Advantageously, the system  100  operates as a closed-loop system wherein the volume of water that is pumped out of the extraction tank  10  into the fluid reservoir  901  is substantially equal to the volume of water and abrasive material that is drawn or suctioned from the water jet tank into the extraction tank  10 . This allows the extraction tank  10  to remain filled with water and substantially air-tight at all times, so that the flow of water, which slows upon entry into the extraction tank  10  can allow the abrasive material to settle at the bottom of the tank  10 . 
         [0069]    One of the unique features believed characteristic of the present application is the ability to drawn the particulate material with a pump, yet keep the particulate material from reaching the pump. For example, the particulate material and fluid is drawn into the extraction tank  10  without passing through the pump  30 , thereby inhibiting damage to the components of the pump  30  due to contact the particulate (e.g., abrasive) material, which improves the reliability and life span of the system  100 . 
         [0070]    It should be understood that the flow of water and particulate material enters the extraction tank  10  and the velocity of the water flow slows down due to the difference in diameter of the third flow line  60  and extraction tank  10 . This slowdown in the flow rate of the water that enters the extraction tank  10  allows substantially all of the particulate material flowing with the water to settle at the bottom of the extraction tank  10 . In one embodiment, the collector  70  can include a filter  74  at a distal end thereof. In one embodiment, the filter  74  can be a screen filter. 
         [0071]    The system  100  can be operated until the extraction tank  10  is substantially filled with abrasive material. In one embodiment, the extraction tank  10  can have aperture  25  shown in  FIG. 1  that allows a user to determine how full the extraction tank is to decide when to end the extraction operation. 
         [0072]    Accordingly, the system  100  advantageously provides an effective system for removing abrasive material  907  from fluid reservoir  901  that avoids the problem of pumping the abrasive material through a pump, which can damage the pump. Additionally, the system  100  provides a compact and portable device for extracting abrasive material from a water jet tank, which can be used to remove abrasive material from more than one water jet tank. In addition, the extraction tank  10 , as discussed above, can readily be opened to dispose of the collected abrasive material (e.g., at a dump site). Further, to save time, the system  100  enables a user to extract garnet while simultaneously operating a water jet cutter or performing other industrial applications. 
         [0073]    In  FIG. 10 , a simplified schematic of an extraction system  1001  is shown in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present application. It will be appreciated that system  1001  is substantially similar in form and function to one or more of the extraction systems discussed above and incorporate the features discussed herein. 
         [0074]    System  1001  includes a tank  1003  configured to collect particulate matter  1005  from a fluid reservoir  1007 . To achieve this feature, system  1001  utilizes a cyclonic separator  1009  positioned on a top surface area  1011  of tank  1003  and configured to separate the particulate matter from the fluid from reservoir  1007 . Further detailed description of these features is provided below with reference to  FIG. 11 . 
         [0075]    System  1001  is further provided with a pump  1013  in fluid communication with the inner tank chamber  1015  and in fluid communication with reservoir  1007 . Accordingly, as depicted, the system  1001  forms a closed-loop system, wherein the fluid passes through one or more fluid lines, valves, and the like, from tank  1003  and reservoir  1007  via pump  1013 . 
         [0076]    During the pre-charge process, a pump  1017  is utilized to fill the inner chamber  1015  with fluid, which in turn allows the pump  1013  to circulate the fluid through the closed loop system. It will be appreciated that pump  1013  could be used in lieu of pump  1017  to pre-charge the system, which can easily be achieved through one or more valves associated with the fluid pipes. 
         [0077]    It should be appreciated that the only a small, if any, amount of particulate matter leaves the fluid chamber  1015 , thus preserving the lifespan of pump  1013 . It should be understood that the particulate matter has the potential to cause wear and tear on the components of pump  1013 . As such, it is highly advantageous to place the pump  1013  in a fluid location the particulate matter is separated from the fluid such that merely fluid enters into the pump. 
         [0078]    In  FIG. 11 , further detailed features of separator  1009  are illustrated. It will be appreciated that one of the unique features believed characteristic of system  1001  is the use of separator  1009  to separate the fluid from the particulate matter. To achieve this feature, the fluid and particulate matter, as depicted with a plurality of dashed-lined arrows  1100  enters within the contoured cylindrical chamber  1101  via an inlet  1103 , spirals along the inner surface  1105  of the body  1107 . During the cyclonic spiraling movement, the heaver particulate matter is separated from the fluid, which in turn exits through a bottom opening  1109  and into the chamber  1015  of tank  1003 . 
         [0079]    Separator  1009  further includes a second opening  1111  configured to channel the fluid to pump  1013 , as indicated by arrow  1113 . In the exemplary embodiment, inlet  1103  is selectively positioned about a side surface area  1115  of the body, while opening  1111  is positioned about a top end  1117  and the bottom opening  1109  is positioned about a bottom end  1119 , wherein top end  1117  and bottom end  1119  oppose each other. Accordingly, separator  1009  is configured such that gravity is used to separate the fluid from the particulate matter. 
         [0080]    In the preferred embodiment, separator  1009  is secured to top surface  1011  via a flange  1121  attached to and extending from body  1107 , which in turn is secured to the top surface via a plurality of fasteners  1123 , e.g., threaded bolts. 
         [0081]    Referring now to  FIG. 12 , a system  1201  is depicted having a plurality of extraction systems, specifically, the embodiments of extraction systems  1001 , in fluid communication with each other. It should be understood that not all particulate matter separates during the extraction process and that finer particulate matter can be harvested in a second extraction tank in accordance with the exemplary embodiment shown. 
         [0082]    As depicted, system  1201  includes a first system  1203  in fluid communication with a second system  1205 . It will be appreciated that the features of one or more of the extraction systems discussed above are hereby incorporated in system  1201 . Thus, system  1203  includes a tank  1207  configured to capture particulate matter  1209  from a fluid reservoir  1211 . Thereafter, the fluid is channeled to system  1205 . System  1205  includes a tank  1213  configure to capture and store finer particulate matter  1215  for a fluid reservoir  1217 . The fluid from system  1205  is then channeled back to reservoir  1211  to form a closed loop system. It will be appreciated that the fluid and particulate matter captured in fluid reservoir is a much finer material than the particulate material carried within fluid reservoir  1211 . 
         [0083]      FIG. 13  depicts yet another alternative embodiment contemplated. System  1301  includes a vehicle  1303  and a trailer  1305  configured to carry extraction system  1307 . It will be appreciated that system  1307  is substantially similar in form and function to one or more of the extraction systems discussed above and incorporates the features discussed herein. 
         [0084]    In the exemplary embodiment, it is contemplated carrying system  1307  via trailer  1305 , thus allowing the extraction system  1307  to be mobile. This feature allows the user to transport the extraction system to various locations wherein the use of system  1307  is required and remove the trailer shortly after the extraction process. 
         [0085]    Referring now to  FIG. 14  in the drawings, an alternative embodiment of the extraction system is shown. It will be appreciated that extraction system  1401  is substantially similar in form and function to one or more of the system discussed above, particularly to system  1001  discussed above. In this embodiment, the system  1401  incorporates the use of a fluid reservoir  1403  in fluid communication with tank  1003 . The unique features believed characteristic of this embodiment are more fully discussed below. 
         [0086]    In  FIG. 15 , a simplified schematic of system  1401  is shown. As depicted, an outlet conduit  1501  is in fluid communication with reservoir  1403  and tank  1003 . The pump  1017  drives the fluid carried within reservoir  1403  through conduit  1501  to the inner cavity of tank  1003  (not shown). An inlet conduit  1503  is in fluid communication with reservoir  1403  and tank  1003 . The pump  1013  drives the fluid from the tank  1003  to the reservoir  1403  via a second conduit  1505  secured to a sidewall  1507  of reservoir  1403 . In the contemplated embodiment, the second conduit  1505  extends around the periphery of the sidewall  1507 . One or more jets  1509  are in fluid communication with second conduit  1505  and are configured to inject the fluid from tank  1003  into the cavity  1511  created by sidewall  1507  and bottom surfaces  1513 ,  1515 ,  1517 ,  1519 . In the preferred embodiment, the injection jets  1509  are angled relative to side wall  1507  to cause a swirling fluid movement within cavity  1511 . This feature provide advantages such as separating the particulate matter from the fluid. 
         [0087]    Another unique feature believed characteristic of reservoir  1403  is the positioning of the bottom surfaces  1513 ,  1515 ,  1517 , and  1519  relative to the ground surface. The angle of each bottom surface is better shown in  FIG. 16 , wherein the inclined bottom surfaces cause the particulate matter  1601  to accumulate in a trough  1603  surrounding the bottom surfaces. The particulate matter  1601  is thereafter received by port  1605  in fluid communication with conduit  1501 . The suction from pump  1017  causes the particulate matter  1601  to leave cavity  1511  and pass through tank  1003 , where it is in turn processed in one or more of the processing methods discussed above. 
         [0088]    As depicted in  FIG. 15 , the injections jets  1509  are positioned at an angle A 1  relative to surface  1502  of sidewall  1507 , which in turn creates a whirlpool vortex movement, as indicated by arrow V 1 . This feature provides an efficient method to separate the particulate matter  1601  from the fluid. 
         [0089]    Referring next to  FIG. 17 , an alternative embodiment of the systems discussed herein is shown. System  1701  is substantially similar in form and function to system  1401  and incorporates one or more of the features discussed herein, and vice-versa. In this embodiment, system  1701  is provided with a cutting structure  1703  that sits above the reservoir and is configured to hold an object  1705  thereon during the cutting process. The particulate matter from the object  1705  and the fluid is collected in the reservoir, which in turn is collected via a conduit  1707  positioned alongside the sidewall and in communication with the particulate matter collected along the bottom. In the contemplated embodiment, the conduit  1707  could extend through the sidewall; however, alternative embodiments could have the conduit extend over the sidewall. A second conduit  1709  is used to provide a fluid return to the injection jets. In one contemplated embodiment, the conduit  1709  could extend around the periphery of the sidewall. 
         [0090]    Although these inventions have been disclosed in the context of a certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present inventions extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the inventions and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. For example, the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to the extraction of abrasive materials used in water jet cutting applications, but can be employed in the extraction of any particulate material from a liquid body (e.g., dredging operation, industrial particulate material extraction processes). In addition, though the material drawn from a tank or body of water is referred to as a particulate material, the material is not limited to an abrasive material (e.g., garnet), but can include other particulate material (e.g., shavings from water jet operation). Further, the term particulate is not meant to limit the material drawn into the extraction tank  10  to a particular size or shape, and merely describes that the material drawn into the tank  10  can be in the form of grains (e.g., loose or clumped grains), elongated shavings, or other generally separable particulate slurry. In addition, while a number of variations of the inventions have been shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of the inventions, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. For example, separate pumps can be used to pre-charge the tank  10  with water and to operate the extraction system  100 . It is also contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within one or more of the inventions. Accordingly, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combine with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed inventions. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present inventions herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above. 
         [0091]    The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the embodiments may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. It is therefore evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified, and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the application. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the description. Although the present embodiments are shown above, they are not limited to just these embodiments, but are amenable to various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit thereof.