Abstract Oil, solid particles such as biological slime and floating debris etc. are removed from water by an apparatus including endless chain means made up of a series of interconnected foraminous chambers holding a regenerable porous filter material such as polyurethane. Preferably the filter material has an outer large pore section and an inner small pore section. A plurality of buckets are attached to the chain means, and as the chain means moves through a closed loop path, these buckets catch debris and dump it into a holding bin. Simultaneously, the filter material absorbs surface and subsurface oil and the like from water traveling through the filter material. The filter material is regenerated by squeezing the filter material to release the oil.
The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said chain means is inclined relative to the horizontal at an angle ranging between about 30* And about 90*.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
12 words
The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the filter material is polyurethane foam.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the filter material has a large pore outer section and a small pore inner section.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
26 words
The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said carrier means, oil collecting means, and debris-storing means, are mounted on a vessel capable of moving through contaminated water.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
19 words
The apparatus of claim 5 wherein debris-skimming means are mounted on said vessel in advance of the chain means.