Device for removing separated fluids and method for using same

Abstract

The device of the present invention comprises a frame assembly having a trough frame and a float frame. The float frame includes a fluid removal device thereon with an inlet opening for taking in fluid in response to actuation of the removal device. The trough frame has a trough thereon. The float frame is movable with respect to the trough frame from a sealed position with the trough in sealed covering relation over the inlet opening of the removal device to an open position wherein the trough is spaced away from the inlet opening. The float frame has sufficient buoyancy to float at a predetermined level in the fluid with the inlet opening of the removal device positioned below the surface of the fluid. The method of the present invention involves lowering the frame assembly from an upper position wherein the float frame is in its sealed position and wherein the trough is above the fluid to a float position wherein the float frame is at its predetermined level in the fluid to a lower position wherein the float remains at its predetermined level in the fluid and the trough has moved downwardly to its open position relative to the float frame. In this position, the removal device is actuated to remove fluid from beneath the surface of the fluid reservoir.