Rotary liquid separation unit

Abstract

A cylindrically-shaped horizontal rotating unit which separates liquids from liquid-bearing materials, such as sludge or sewage, is the subject of this invention. After the liquid-bearing material is fed from a pipe onto a tray or head box located at the bottom of the feed end near the circumference of the unit, the material flows from onto the interior of the cylinder which contains bar screens around its circumference. The cylinder is rotated at variable speeds while the material is fed into it. When the cylinder is rotated liquids are drained from the material through bar screens contained around the circumference of the cylinder and into a drain pan below the cylinder thereby leaving the remaining material more solid. Additional features of this invention include interrupted pitched flights or blades protruding from the inside of the cylinder, which not only push the materials toward the discharge end of the cylinder but also roll the material end over end to remove even more liquid from the material. Also, a dam located at the discharge end of the cylinder can be adjusted to hold back the accumulated solids until the desired size and density are obtained. Finally, the solid material flows over the dam and onto a lip at the back of the cylinder ready for final disposal. Air and water spray systems are also provided to keep the bar screens on the interior of the cylinder clean from becoming clogged with particles of material being treated. A further optional feature is a heating chamber inside the cylinder which can be used to dry even further the material being treated.