HK1196328A - Fluid treatment apparatus, system and methods - Google Patents

Abstract

A portable fluid treatment apparatus that includes a container with an interior wall between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe which defines a bottom space between the bottom of the wall and the bottom interior surface of the container. A series of collectors in the container directs the flow of the inlet fluid and promotes sedimentation from the fluid. The inlet fluid flows under the wall and up to a discharge pipe equipped with a vent. Multiple sedimentation units are connected together in series and mounted on a trailer for transport to a construction site. A storm water treatment unit is similarly constructed to separate debris from a flow of storm water.

Description

Fluid treatment device, system and method

Cross reference to related patent applications

The present application relates to AND claims priority from U.S. patent application serial No. 13/605,824 entitled "CONSTRUCTION ground water TREATMENT SYSTEM AND method (CONSTRUCTION SITE WATER TREATMENT SYSTEMAND METHODS)" filed on 6.9.2012, which is a continuation-in-part application OF U.S. patent application serial No. 13/234,019 entitled "TREATMENT APPARATUS, method AND SYSTEM FOR rainwater AND liquid waste" (AND SYSTEM FOR tree maintenance OF storage water AND pipeline FLUIDS), filed on 15.9.2011, the disclosures OF both OF which are specifically incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to devices, methods and systems for treating stormwater and removing sediment and suspended solids from water discharged from construction, building and other sites where it is desirable to avoid discharging suspended solids into a riparian or storm water drainage system, and more particularly to separating sand, oil, biomass and other debris from water and reducing the amount of nutrients and nitrogen compounds in the treated water. More broadly, the present invention relates to apparatus, methods and systems for processing large volumes of liquids, mixtures, suspensions and the like to separate them into component parts; and for processing liquids, mixtures, suspensions, etc. to remove solids and discharge water with less suspended solids.

Background

Modern storm water drainage systems involve directing storm water to a storm drain or sewer where the water is collected for subsequent processing and treatment or simply drained into large bodies of water. In these systems, rain flows from slopes and streets into storm drains by gravity guidance. During the course of a flow, rain water may carry debris, trash (e.g., paper, cans, and cigarette butts), biomass (e.g., grass, leaves, feces, and waste food), silt, sand, stone, oil, contaminants, heavy metals, and waste medical equipment and personal items (e.g., used needles and condoms), and other particles. Furthermore, it is also possible for the storm water drainage system to collect other run-off water, for example water for irrigation. Rain and runoff water may naturally flow through soil or other terrain and carry organic matter or chemicals, such as plants, leaves, hydrocarbons, nitrates, or other compounds.

There is great interest in the efficient processing of rain. Drainage systems are typically routed to natural water systems such as oceans, lakes, rivers, creeks, and other similar bodies of water. It would be helpful to protect the environment if there were practical low cost capabilities to separate out artificial and natural contaminants and pollutants before the drainage was introduced into the natural water system and to avoid disturbing the natural ecological balance of these systems. Furthermore, if rain water and other run-off water can be effectively treated and recovered in the form of clean water or at least in the form of reclaimed water, there is the potential for: the recovered water can help meet the internal water demand.

There is also great interest in treating fluids for mining, agricultural and industrial applications. In addition to water treatment and purification, products separated from the fluid during treatment can be valuable. For example, minerals in runoff from a mine or farm that contain high nutrient content, various lubricant components, etc. may be separated, collected and reused or recycled. Furthermore, the recovery of fluids or solids in industrial applications and from waste streams may be of interest.

Construction and building sites often collect or produce large amounts of run-off water containing high levels of suspended solids that need to be pumped away from the site. River bank systems and storm water drainage systems may not be able to accommodate discharged fluids, particularly large amounts of sediment that may settle. To protect the environment near these worksites, government regulations may require that the water discharged from the worksite be pre-processed to reduce the amount of suspended solids discharged. Typically, the discharged water is not harmful to the environment but may contain debris, dirt, sand, clay, and other suspended solids that need to be removed or reduced in concentration. After removal or reduction of the concentration of suspended solids, the processed water is suitably discharged into a nearby water system.

Storm water runoff and ground water are typically stored in pools at a worksite, which may slowly evaporate or submerge into the adjacent land. Such ponds can overflow roads, creeks, real estate, and low lying areas, causing flooding and depositing large amounts of sediment.

The process of removing suspended solids from large volumes of water stored at construction and building sites is often referred to as "dewatering". Common dehydration methods include the use of dehydration bags. Dewatering bags (also known as earth bags, gravity bag filters and sediment filter bags) are simply large rectangular filter bags fed by one or more sources of water that need to be treated. A pump is typically used to move water from a reservoir to supply the dehydration bag.

The water flows into the interior of the bag and through the walls of the bag. The walls of the bag filter out solids of a particular size. The water leaches out through the surface of the bag into the surrounding environment. In essence, dewatering bags are large filters that separate suspended solids from water. The bag is filled with solids and then discarded.

The appropriate size of dewatering bag for a particular application is typically determined by the flow rate and composition of the water that needs to be processed. The amount of solids in the water may affect the size of the dewatering bag required, as a large sediment load will fill the bag more quickly and clog the holes in the bag material. Certain solids, such as clay, will very quickly block the dewatering bag.

In estimating the appropriate size of dewatering bags for a particular application, selecting bags that are too large for a task wastes money and takes up valuable space on the worksite, while bags that are too small for a task would require the use of multiple dewatering bags, the need for schedules for monitoring and replacing these bags, and the time, labor, and expense of actually monitoring and replacing additional bags.

Furthermore, variations in the flow rate and composition of the water pumped from the site make it necessary to obtain an inventory of bags to accommodate these variations. If high flow rates are required, larger dewatering bags (e.g., 15 feet by 15 feet) may be provided, or multiple dewatering bags may be supplied through a manifold of parallel hoses, or dewatering "tubes" hundreds of feet long may be provided. These large bags and tubes are heavy, expensive, and impose large loads on the surface due to the weight of the water and collected sediment. The load may damage the ground and other surfaces. The flow of water through the bag (or tube) can also cause erosion of the surrounding area in an unpredictable manner.

Another problem with dewatering bags is that they are typically designed to be used only once before being discarded. The use of disposable dewatering bags is not environmentally friendly as the bags (with or without their contents) are usually made of synthetic materials that require disposal. Furthermore, filled bags resting on the ground require heavy machinery to move. It is not possible to move the partially filled bag without destroying it. The difficulties with reusable bags are: the heavy bags are transported and the heavy sediment loads are removed from the relatively fragile bags.

The fragility of dewatering bags is also a problem. The bag may puncture or tear at the construction site due to the surface on which it is placed or due to inadvertent contact with machinery. When filled, the dewatering bag may stretch to occupy a different footprint (footprint). Bags filled or subjected to excessive water pressure may rupture. At high pressures, the rupture of the bag can become a dangerous explosion of water and sediment.

There is a need for better methods and systems for removing large quantities of fluids to remove suspended solids.

U.S. Pat. No.7,311,818 to Gurfinkel discusses a method for a water separation unit having an inner and outer shell for rainwater collection. Rainwater enters the inner shell, wherein water and sundries are separated. A series of hollow tubes connect the inner and outer shells to allow liquid to enter and collect in the outer shell and exit the unit through a network of discharge pipes. One problem with this approach is that the tubes may become clogged with debris. Another problem with the method is that most of the silt and sand does not collect at the location of the tubes of the inner shell but flows through the tubes and may be sucked into the discharge tube and out of the outer shell. Another problem with this approach is that the unit must be completely drained before cleaning.

U.S. patent No.7,846,327 to Happel, which is a commercial form of Nutrient Separating bag Box from suntree technologies, discusses a method of rain water filtration cassettes having a stationary basket to collect debris and a floatable skimmer to avoid floating debris passing through the basket from exiting the cassette. A skimmer is disposed within the box between the inlet and outlet and rises and falls with the water level in the box. Rainwater is directed through the basket to the skimmer where floating debris is collected.

One problem with this approach is that the skimmer requires moving elements to move, which can break or jam. Another problem is that floating debris remains in contact with the wastewater, promoting decay of the debris.

U.S. patent No.7,857,966 to Duran discusses a method of a stormwater inlet device having an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe that are held horizontal to each other, wherein the wastewater flows directly through a catch basin. The device comprises a shroud and a skirted water fence which is fixed to the inner wall of the basin above the outlet pipe. The waste water flows under the hood and skirted water fence and out through the outlet. In the method, sediment, which is heavier than water, sinks to the bottom of the tank and impurities, which are lighter than water, float on top of the wastewater in the tank. One problem with this approach is that the sealed enclosure blocks the air flow, allows siphoning to occur and pulls down the level of waste water, and may suck in floating debris, thus reducing the performance of the device. Similarly, debris remains in contact with the wastewater, promoting decay of the debris.

U.S. patent No.7,780,855 to Eberly discusses a method for a system for stormwater treatment. The processing unit is connected to a control chamber through which the fluid flows. The fluid is diverted through the control wall to the inlet pipe into the unit for treatment and returned through the outlet pipe. If the flow rate exceeds the capacity of the inlet pipe, excess fluid flows over the control wall to the outlet of the control chamber. One problem with the described method is that it is not suitable for retrofit applications, since there is no significant step (significant grade) between the entrance and exit of the control room. Another problem with the method is that there is no separation between the different types of impurities (i.e. biomass, hydrocarbons, sludge and sand, etc.); all substances are mixed in the form of a possibly toxic soup (soup).

U.S. patent application No.10/430,170 to Peters et al discusses a system for removing dirt from rain water. Rainwater flows through a treatment chamber that includes a series of vertical baffles extending from the top, bottom and sides of the chamber. Rain water flows around the baffle through the chamber and debris is captured along the bottom of the chamber by a filter located in the gap between the baffle and the chamber. One problem with the process is that all filtration is done in water; thus, the debris remains in contact with the water, promoting decay of the debris. Another problem with the method is that all debris collects at the bottom of the chamber, limiting the capacity of the chamber to collect debris. Another problem with the method is that the relatively small gap between the baffle and the chamber can be easily clogged by debris.

There is also a need for effective, low cost devices, methods and systems for separating storm water, process fluids, lubricants, coolants, waste water, etc. to separate out solids, hydrocarbons, dirt and contaminants, and to recover and recycle desired components.

Disclosure of Invention

Accordingly, the present invention relates to devices, methods and systems for treating storm water and other fluids mixed with solids and liquids.

It is an object of embodiments of the present invention to provide an apparatus for efficient separation of debris, biomass, silt, sand, hydrocarbons and nutrient compounds from stormwater. Another object includes the efficient separation of biomass from collected hazardous contaminants, the separation resulting in the biomass being treated as normal waste rather than hazardous waste.

It is a further object of embodiments of the present invention to provide a stand-alone stormwater treatment device that allows for simple installation and maintenance. Another object is to provide a compact device that is easy to install in urban streets through existing drain trunks and in high water level areas through shallow storm water systems.

It is a further object of embodiments of the present invention to provide a stormwater treatment system that is capable of diverting water off-line in the event of an overflow condition so as to avoid flooding the treatment unit. Another object includes a system that does not reintroduce collected contaminants into a storm water drainage system. Yet another object is to avoid the reflux and re-surfacing of bacteria, dead mice and other debris that are considered to be harmful to health, to roads and other properties.

It is another object of embodiments of the present invention to provide fluid processing devices and systems for separating lubricants, cooling fluids, industrial fluids, agricultural fluids, mining fluids, and the like.

It is another object of embodiments of the present invention to provide fluid handling devices and systems that do not have moving elements.

It is another object of embodiments of the present invention to provide a fluid treatment system that does not require any type of chemicals or additives.

It is another object of embodiments of the present invention to provide fluid treatment apparatus, methods and systems for treating fluids mixed with solids.

It is another object of embodiments of the present invention to provide a portable fluid treatment device, method and system for treating a fluid mixed with a solid.

It is a further object of embodiments of the present invention to provide a fluid treatment system for the efficient separation of debris, biomass, sludge, sand and other solids from a discharge fluid.

It is another object of embodiments of the present invention to provide a self-contained, compact and portable fluid treatment device for fluids mixed with solids that allows for simple installation, disassembly and maintenance.

It is another object of embodiments of the present invention to provide a suspended solids treatment system that separates suspended solids from water by gravity settling.

Other features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description and claims hereof, as well as from the accompanying drawings.

According to an aspect of an embodiment of the invention, the rainwater and fluid treatment unit comprises a separation vessel connected to the inlet and the outlet; a wall having an open top and a bottom space within the container between the inlet and the outlet; a wire mesh located below the inlet; a drain pipe extending downward from the outlet; and an exhaust pipe connected to the outlet. According to another aspect of an embodiment of the invention, the drain comprises a manifold. In another aspect of an embodiment of the invention, the manifold includes a tubing return wire, a lower portion of the return wire having an upper surface cut-out.

According to an aspect of an embodiment of the invention, the rainwater or fluid treatment unit separates rainwater or other fluids from debris by density relative to the primary fluid. Fluid enters the cell from an inlet and flows into the fluid reservoir below a wall extending into the reservoir and out through an outlet at a level below the inlet. The unit includes a wire mesh below the inlet to collect large debris and an exhaust connected to the outlet to avoid vacuum conditions in the outlet.

According to another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, a stormwater and fluid treatment system comprises two drainage flow chambers, the two drainage flow chambers being coupled by a drainage trunk; a fluid treatment unit coupled to the two drainage flow chambers through an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe, respectively; and a baffle in the inlet drain flow chamber, the baffle extending no higher than the height of the top of the inlet pipe.

According to one aspect of an embodiment of the invention, a storm water and fluid treatment system diverts storm water or other fluid off-line from a drain trunk to a storm water or fluid treatment unit. The fluid treatment unit is coupled to the two drainage flow chambers along the main drainage line through an inlet and an outlet, respectively. The inlet drain flow chamber includes baffles that divert fluid flow in the trunk into the cell. If the unit reaches its capacity, the baffles allow the excess to flow through the existing trunk.

According to another aspect of an embodiment of the invention, a stormwater treatment system comprises first and second flow chambers connected by a connecting trunk; an inlet drain trunk coupled to the first chamber; an outlet drain trunk coupled to the second chamber; a stormwater treatment unit coupled to the first chamber by an inlet pipe and to the second chamber by an outlet pipe, wherein the first chamber comprises a baffle having a height no greater than a top of the inlet pipe at the first chamber. The rainwater treatment system may further comprise a backflow preventer; the inlet drain trunk, the middle section drain trunk and the outlet drain trunk may have the same inclination; and the inlet, intermediate and outlet drain trunks may be collinear.

According to another aspect of an embodiment of the invention, a method of retrofitting an existing fluid trunk line or storm water trunk line comprises the steps of: replacing a first portion of the trunk line with a first chamber and a second portion of the trunk line with a second chamber, the second chamber being downstream of and separate from the first chamber; and mounting a fluid treatment unit coupled to the first chamber by an inlet pipe and to the second chamber by an outlet pipe; wherein the first chamber includes a baffle having a height no greater than a top of the inlet pipe at the first chamber. A backflow preventer may also be installed at the outlet pipe or the second chamber. The fluid treatment unit may be a fluid treatment unit according to an embodiment of the invention, a stormwater treatment unit according to an embodiment of the invention or another fluid or stormwater treatment unit.

According to another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, a portable fluid treatment device for treating an inlet fluid comprises: a vessel connected to an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe, wherein the outlet pipe is located in the vessel at a position lower than the inlet pipe; a wall between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe within the vessel; wherein the wall defines a headspace between a top of the wall and a top of the container; wherein the wall defines a bottom space between the bottom of the wall and the bottom interior surface of the container; wherein the wall defines a first interior of the container on the inlet side of the container; and wherein the wall defines a second interior of the container on the outlet side of the container; a collector located within the first interior at a height below the inlet tube; a drain pipe extending downward from the outlet pipe within the container; and an exhaust pipe extending upward from the outlet pipe.

According to another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, a portable fluid treatment device for treating an inlet fluid containing suspended solids comprises: a trough having a front side, a rear side, a right side, a left side, a bottom, and a removable top; wherein the tank comprises a plurality of settling units; wherein each settling unit comprises: a vessel connected to an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe, wherein the outlet pipe is located at a position lower than the inlet pipe in the vessel; a wall between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe within the vessel; wherein the wall defines a headspace between a top of the wall and a top of the container; wherein the wall defines a bottom space between the bottom of the wall and the bottom interior surface of the container; wherein the wall defines a first interior of the container on the inlet side of the container; and wherein the wall defines a second interior of the container on the outlet side of the container; a collector located within the first interior at a height below the inlet tube; a drain pipe extending downward from the outlet pipe within the container; and an exhaust pipe extending upward from the outlet pipe.

According to another embodiment of the invention, a method of treating inlet water mixed with solids comprises the steps of: introducing inlet water into an inlet of the treatment unit; guiding the inlet water to enable the inlet water to spread over the horizontal collector; collecting the solids in the horizontal collector; preventing horizontal flow of inlet water with an inner wall within the treatment unit at the level of the inlet; flowing inlet water under the inner wall and to an outlet pipe flowing from above into the inlet below the level of the inlet; and an inlet for flowing inlet water into the second treatment unit.

It is to be understood that while the invention has been described in conjunction with the detailed description thereof, the description contained herein is intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of the invention.

Drawings

Fig. 1 comprises a set of diagrams of a storm water treatment unit according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1A shows a top view of the cell. Fig. 1B shows a front view of the unit. Fig. 1C shows a side view of the unit.

Fig. 2 comprises a set of diagrams of a stormwater treatment system according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 2A shows a top view of the system. Fig. 2B shows a side view of the system.

Fig. 3 is a diagram of an inlet drain flow chamber of a stormwater treatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 4 is a diagram of a stormwater treatment system according to another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 5 is a diagram of a fluid processing unit according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 6 is a diagram of a fluid processing unit with alternating manifolds according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 7 is a diagram of an alternate manifold of a fluid processing unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 8 is an external side view of a fluid treatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 9 is a partial top view of a fluid treatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid treatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 11 is a top view of a lid for a top portion of a fluid handling system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view parallel to the front wall of a fluid handling system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 13 is an exterior view of a rear wall of a fluid treatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 14 is a diagram of a speed reducing shield according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view between a graff wall and a back wall of a fluid handling unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 16A is a diagram of an outlet pipe between fluid treatment units according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 16B is a diagram of a weir in an outlet pipe according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 17A is a diagram of an upper collector according to one embodiment of the invention.

Figure 17B is a cross-sectional view of an upper collector according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 17C is a perspective view of an upper collector according to one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 18A is a diagram of an intermediate collector according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 18B is a cross-sectional view of an intermediate collector according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 18C is a perspective view of an intermediate collector according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 19A is a diagram of an underlying collector according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 19B is a cross-sectional view of a lower collector according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 19C is a perspective view of a lower collector according to an embodiment of the invention.

Detailed Description

The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided for illustrative purposes only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention, and the invention is defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof. Descriptions of well-known functions and constructions are omitted for clarity and conciseness. The drawings are intended to illustrate features of exemplary embodiments of the invention and are not drawn to scale.

Fig. 1 shows a storm water treatment unit according to one embodiment of the invention. FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C show a top view, a front view and a side view, respectively, of the unit.

The rainwater treatment unit 100 is placed in the accommodation basement 101. Preferably, the basement is 6 ' long x7 ' wide x8 ' 4 "high and is made of liquid impermeable concrete with a wall thickness of 6 inches (6"). The dimensions of the basement can be adjusted according to the application and can be made of other suitable materials, such as metal or plastic. The interior of the basement defines a chamber 150.

The housing basement 101 has three openings connected to the chamber 150: an inlet 110, an outlet 120, and a manhole 105. The inlet 110 is provided on one side of the chamber 150 and is preferably 12 "in diameter and fitted with a similarly sized tube 111. The outlet 120 is provided on the opposite side of the chamber 150 and is preferably 12 "in diameter and fitted with a similarly sized tube 121. A manhole 105 (preferably in the form of a manhole) is preferably located at the top of the basement 101 and fitted with a cover. Preferably, the material of the tube may be PVC, metal or other types of materials suitable for use with the fluids and contaminants involved. The inlet 110, outlet 120, and tubes 111 and 121 may have other suitable dimensions to accommodate different fluid volumes and flow rates.

In a preferred embodiment, the inlet 110 is positioned about 5 inches higher than the outlet 120. The heights of the inlet 110 and outlet 120 are thus very similar, allowing shallow installation of the unit in areas with high water levels that do not support large height differences between the inlet 110 and outlet 120.

Outlet pipe 121 extends through outlet 120 and curves downward toward the bottom of chamber 150 in basement 101. The inlet 122 of the tube 121 faces downwardly towards the bottom of the chamber 150. The outlet tube 121 is separated from the chamber 150 by a wall 140. Wall 140 preferably extends from above outlet 120 to a position intermediate outlet 120 and the bottom of chamber 150, allowing liquid in chamber 150 to flow to tube 121. The height of the inlet 122 is at or above the lower end of the wall 140. Optionally, the portion of the outlet tube 121 below the outlet 120 may be perforated to allow liquid to enter through the side of the tube 121 to further distribute the draw of liquid.

If the outlet 123 of the tube 121 extends below the water level 160 (as would normally be expected to allow flow through the tube 121), the flow of water in the tube 121 may create a siphon that may pull the water level 160 in the chamber 150 down to the level of the inlet 122 of the outlet tube 121. The exhaust pipe 130 is connected to the outlet pipe 121 and extends upward from the outlet pipe 121. The exhaust tube 130 allows air to flow into the tube 121 to avoid siphoning during high volume flows. Alternatively, the tube 121 may be perforated below the level 160, allowing air flow if the level 160 falls below the bottom of the outlet 120, and reducing or avoiding the siphon effect.

There is a space between the top of the wall 140 and the top of the chamber 150 to allow air to flow near the exhaust pipe 130 and avoid a siphon effect. The wall 140 further acts as a physical barrier to protect the tube 121 from the pressure of inlet water and debris from the inlet tube 111. The wall 140 is preferably made of stainless steel, plastic, or other material suitable for use with the fluids and contaminants involved.

The wire mesh 171 is located below the inlet pipe 111 and preferably above the lowermost portion of the outlet 120. Due to pressure equalization, the level 160 should generally be at the level of the lowest part of the outlet 120, since a higher level would cause outflow from the outlet pipe 121. The wire mesh 171 is preferably positioned above the water line 160 and separates large debris from the inlet flow of rainwater. The wire mesh 171 is preferably a wire grid or wire mesh with suitably sized holes to collect debris from the inlet fluid at the top of the wire mesh while allowing smaller debris, particles and fluid to flow through. The mesh 171 collects leaves and other large biomass clumps above the water level and prevents the collected debris from soaking into the liquid in the chamber 150 or floating on the water level 160. By keeping the biomass on the screen 171 away from the pool of water, the decay process of the biomass is slowed down and the leaching of ammonium nitrate, other nitrates and other components from the organic matter is reduced. By keeping the trash and other large debris on the mesh 171 away from the basin, leaching of chemicals, dirt, and contaminants into the water is reduced.

In a preferred mode of operation of the stormwater treatment unit 100, inlet water flows laterally from the inlet pipe 111 into the chamber 150, into the pool in the chamber 150 and out of the chamber 150 through the outlet pipe 121. Preferably, chamber 150 is pre-filled with water to a height above inlet 122. Inlet water, which may come from rain, run-off or other sources of water, contains varying degrees of debris, biomass and other solid, semi-solid and particulate materials. These materials include components heavier than water, such as sand and metals, and components lighter than water, such as plastics, greases, oils and other hydrocarbons. The rainwater treatment unit 100 separates components in the polluted water by density. As the inlet water flows through the wire mesh 171, the heavier components settle to the bottom of the chamber 150 as sediment; the lighter components float on top of the water line 160 as floating debris 165.

If oil or other petroleum products are introduced into the cell as part of the float 165, the oil acts as a cover, which if not removed, reduces the flow of air (e.g., oxygen) into the collected fluid in the cell and thus hinders the growth of bacteria, algae, etc. in the collected fluid. The reduction in growth of the microorganisms extends the maintenance cycle of the unit and reduces the health and environmental hazards to service workers.

Due to the height of the lower end of the wall 140, fluid from the middle of the chamber 150 is drawn into the inlet 122. Due to the separation process, the fluid drawn into inlet 122 contains fewer lighter and heavier components than the original rain water. Preferably, the wall 140 is located at a sufficiently high position to avoid the tube 121 sucking in sediment (not shown) from the bottom of the chamber 150.

At the time of maintenance, the rainwater treatment unit 100 is periodically cleaned according to the capacity of the unit, the volume of processed rainwater, and the pollution level. Dried leaves, other biomass, and waste can be collected from the wire mesh 171. Floating debris 165 (e.g., oil and grease) may be skimmed from the surface of the water surface 160. The collected sediment may be vacuumed or removed from the bottom of the chamber 150. Optionally, a vacuum may be used to collect other fluid portions in chamber 150. In this regard, the open design and modular design of the unit 100 keeps the unit accessible for easy maintenance and cleaning.

Referring to fig. 1A, in one embodiment of the invention, outlet tube 121 is preferably a manifold comprising two or more tubes extending down into chamber 150. The tubes of the manifold may be arranged in such a way that they perform a distributed suction from different locations of the chamber 150. This arrangement helps to reduce the suction of sediment collected at the bottom of the chamber 150 into the tube 121 and helps to even out the distribution of the collected sediment, as compared to using a single centrally located outlet tube inlet. In another embodiment of the invention, a single centrally located outlet tube inlet is used.

In another embodiment of the present invention, a flow director (not shown) is located below the inlet tube 111 and above the wire mesh 171. The incoming rain water is dumped onto the deflector and spread out. The flow deflector helps slow down the inlet water pouring out of the pipe 111 and avoids the inlet water from rushing through, which would force the material through the wire mesh 171 and cause large turbulence that would disrupt the settling of sediment at the bottom of the chamber 150. In another embodiment of the invention, the deflector may be a sprinkler plate that diverts the flow of water and spreads the water throughout the length and width of the chamber. A variety of other water diverting configurations attached to the inlet pipe 111 or located in the inlet water stream will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the collectors 172 and 173 are located below the wire mesh 171. Collectors 172 and 173 are preferably made of stainless steel and have a fluted shape to present a saw tooth cross section to slow down the entrance water flush into chamber 150 and help collect sediment. Collectors 172 and 173 increase surface area contact with the inlet water and may be angled, textured, coated, magnetized, or use other cross-sectional shapes to collect certain materials. In a preferred embodiment, the recess of collector 172 is 4 inches deep and the recess of collector 173 is 12 inches deep. Alternatively, the collectors 172 and 173 may include a pattern of projections that create turbulence to collect certain materials, such as those used in mining operations. Collectors 172 and 173 may also be magnetized to collect certain metals. In another embodiment of the present invention (not shown), the collector 173 is disposed above the water line 160. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the inlet water is slung down using multiple heights of the collectors 172 and 173. The height of the collectors 172 and 173 may be adjustable.

Optionally, collector 155 is located at the bottom of chamber 150 and collects sediment in a similar manner as collectors 172 and 173. The collector 155 is also preferably made of stainless steel and has a fluted shape to create a saw tooth cross-section. The collector 155 increases the surface area contact with the flowing fluid and may be angled, textured, coated, magnetized, or use other cross-sectional shapes to collect certain materials from the fluid. The grooves of the collector 155 are preferably 2 inches deep.

Also optionally, a filler piece 158 is disposed in a bottom corner of the chamber 150. The filler piece 158 has the shape of the bottom of the chamber 150 to help reduce turbulence in the water flow and further to help the efficiency of collecting sediment and to increase the distance between the sediment collected at the bottom of the chamber 150 and the inlet 122.

In another embodiment of the invention, the position or size of the wall 140 may be adjusted to accommodate the flow of water to the inlet 122 and to adjust the efficiency of the treatment process, or to withdraw water from different heights within the chamber 150 (i.e., closer to the horizontal plane 160 and closer to the bottom of the chamber 150). In another embodiment of the invention, the wall 140 is perforated to allow selective withdrawal of water from different heights within the chamber 150. In yet another embodiment of the invention (not shown), the inlet 122 and exhaust 130 are omitted, leaving the outlet tube 121 flush with the opening of the outlet 120, thereby withdrawing fluid from the chamber 150 through the perforated wall. Fluid at different levels in chamber 150 can be withdrawn depending on the placement of the holes in the wall.

Fig. 2 shows a stormwater treatment system according to another embodiment of the invention. Fig. 2A shows a top view and fig. 2B shows a side view of the system.

The stormwater treatment system 200 may be set up to modify an existing drain trunk having a trunk inlet 201 and a trunk outlet 202. In an exemplary embodiment, the drainage flow chambers 280 and 290 and the rainwater treatment unit 270 are added to an existing trunk line. For simplicity of illustration, the side view of the system shown in FIG. 2B does not show the existing trunk lines. An advantage of the system 200 is that the operation of the off-trunk line is performed in parallel to the existing drain trunk line.

The chamber 280 comprises a baffle 281, said baffle 281 comprising an inclined short wall for diverting the flow from the inlet 201 to the connecting duct 271. The connection pipe 271 connects the chamber 280 and the process unit 270. The connection pipe 272 connects the processing unit 270 and the chamber 290. A conventional backflow preventer 291 is preferably provided at or near the junction of the tube 272 and the chamber 290. The processing unit 270 may be of conventional design or of design consistent with the invention (as shown).

In operation of system 200, inlet water from mains inlet 201 is diverted by baffle 281 into pipe 271 and into stormwater treatment unit 270. The water is treated in unit 270 and returned to chamber 290 through pipe 272. Treated water flows from chamber 290 into mains outlet 202. The backflow preventer 291 reduces or prevents outlet water from flowing back to the rainwater processing unit 270 through the outlet pipe 272.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, chambers 280 and 290 are provided with collectors 282 and 292, respectively, at the bottom of the chambers. Like collectors 172, 173, and 155 in fig. 1, collectors 282 and 292 are preferably made of stainless steel and have a grooved shape to present a saw-tooth shaped cross section to collect sediment. The collectors 282 and 292 are preferably aligned with a saw tooth cross section perpendicular to the flow of water, i.e., collinear with the tube 271 of the collector 282 and collinear with the tube 202 of the collector 290, to maximize the collection of sediment. The collectors 282 and 292 may also be textured, coated or magnetized or have other cross-sectional shapes used to collect certain materials. The grooves of collectors 282 and 292 are preferably 2 inches deep.

Figure 3 shows an inlet drain flow chamber of a stormwater treatment system according to an embodiment of the invention.

The drain flow chamber 380 is connected to the inlet 301 of the existing drain trunk, the outlet 303 of the existing drain trunk, and the pipe 371 to the rainwater treatment unit 370. A baffle 381 in the chamber 380 diverts the normal flow of inlet water from the inlet 301 to a tube 371 for water treatment. The overflow of inlet water passes over the baffle 381 to the outlet 303. Baffle 381 is preferably constructed of 6 "thick concrete or concrete blocks, but may be constructed of other suitable materials having other dimensions. In a preferred embodiment, the baffle 381 extends to a height no higher than the top of the tube 371, and the collector 381 is located at the bottom of the chamber 380.

In operation, when inlet water enters the drainage flow chamber 380 from the inlet 301, the water is blocked from the outlet 303 by the baffle 381 and diverted to the tube 371 to the stormwater treatment unit 370 for treatment. If an overflow condition begins to build in the stormwater treatment unit 370 and causes the water level in the pipe 371 to rise to the top of the pipe, the water level in the chamber 380 rises to the top of the baffle 381 and excess inlet water flows over the top of the baffle 381 into the outlet 303 of the drain trunk. Effectively, the chamber 380 with the baffles 381 acts as an overflow prevention system for the unit 370. Preventing overflow in storm water treatment unit 370 is an important aspect of the present system, as overflow conditions may cause debris, sediment, dirt, contaminants, etc. collected by the unit to be washed out of the unit and back into the drainage system, which reduces or completely destroys the performance of the unit. Alternatively, in the event that an undesirable volume of rainwater flows through the inlet 301 and exceeds the capacity of the tube 371, the water level in the chamber 380 will rise and excess flow will be removed to the outlet 303 over the baffle 381.

Fig. 4 shows a stormwater treatment system according to another embodiment of the invention. Preferably, the system is used for stormwater currents. Other units may be added as necessary.

Rainwater treatment system 400 includes two offline rainwater treatment units 470A and 470B arranged in a parallel configuration. Flow drain chamber 480A is connected to mains inlet pipe 401 and to chamber 480B by pipe 403. Chamber 480B is connected to chamber 490 by tube 404. The chamber 490 is connected to the trunk outlet pipe 402 of the existing drain trunk.

Flow-drainage chambers 480A and 480B with collectors 482A and 482B, respectively, are provided at the bottom of the chambers to divert the flow of water to tubes 471A and 471B, respectively, by baffles 481A and 481B, respectively. The tubes 471A and 471B are connected to inlets of the rainwater disposal units 470A and 470B, respectively. The outlets of units 470A and 470B are connected to outlet pipe 472.

In operation, inlet water from inlet 401 is diverted by baffle 481A to tube 471A to water treatment unit 470A. If an overflow condition occurs in chamber 480A, excess inlet water overflows from baffle 481A to tube 403 and into flow drain chamber 480B. Baffle 481B diverts inlet water into water treatment unit 470B. If an overflow condition occurs in chamber 480B, excess inlet water overflows from baffle 481B to tube 404.

Treated water flows from units 470A and 470B and into tube 472, through backflow preventer 491 and into chamber 490, which chamber 490 includes a collector 492 at the bottom of chamber 490. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the tube 472 has a diameter of 18 ". The backflow preventer 491 is a conventional backflow preventer to reduce or prevent water flow from the chamber 490 into the tube 472. Optionally, the outlets of units 470A and 470B may also be equipped with backflow preventers.

Although system 400 includes only two storm water treatment units arranged in parallel, other units may be added and arranged in the configuration of unit 470B.

The storm water treatment unit and system are advantageously applied in other applications than storm water treatment. The following applications can be implemented using the processing unit and system according to the invention: filtering run-off from mining operations, processing fluids used in oil well fracturing operations, recovering cooling fluids for cutting blades, processing contaminated lubricants including metal shavings, and the like.

Fig. 5 shows a front view of a fluid processing unit 500 according to an embodiment of the invention.

The fluid processing cell 500 comprises a chamber 550, said chamber 550 having openings for the inlet 511 and the outlet 521. The inlet 511 and outlet 521 are separated by a wall 540, which wall 540 extends only partially between the top and bottom of the chamber 550. The inlet flow from inlet 511 is pre-separated from larger impurities by wire mesh 571. The vent 530 is located at the top of the outlet 521 to facilitate venting of any pressure differential in the outlet 521. In operation, fluid flowing through the cell 500 is separated by density. The lighter component 565 floats at the top of the reservoir of primary fluid in the chamber 550. The heavier components 555 precipitate and collect at the bottom of the chamber 550. Once the level of fluid 560 in chamber 550 reaches the level of the lower end of tube 521, the processed fluid exits tube 521.

Fig. 6 shows a side view of a fluid processing unit 600 having an alternate outlet manifold 621, according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of an alternate outlet manifold 621 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

The fluid treatment unit 600 includes a chamber defined by walls 601, a dirt collection region 655 for collecting debris at the bottom of the chamber, and a manhole 605 at the top of the chamber. An inlet pipe 611 is located on one side of the chamber and an outlet manifold 621 with an outlet pipe 623 is located on the other side of the chamber. The inlet tube 611 and the outlet tube 623 are separated by a wall 640 in the chamber, said wall 640 having a wall top 641 and a wall bottom 642.

There is a space between the top wall 641 and the top of the chamber to allow for airflow between the chamber and the exhaust duct 630. There is another space between the wall bottom 642 and the bottom of the chamber to allow fluid to flow from the inlet tube 611 to the outlet manifold 621. The outlet manifold 621 includes a pipe return 622 and an exhaust pipe 630 and the outlet manifold 621 is connected to an outlet pipe 623. The tubing return 622 has a cutout 625 at the top surface of the bottom of the return.

In a preferred mode of operation, fluid flows from the inlet tube 611 into the chamber and into a pool of fluid in the chamber, the level of which generally reaches the bottom surface of the outlet tube 623. Fluid in the pool flows under the wall bottom 642 and enters the outlet manifold 621 through a cutout 625, the cutout 625 being positioned lower than the outlet tube 623. As the fluid level in the chamber rises, fluid entering the outlet manifold 621 through the cutout 625 rises in the piping return 622 until it reaches the level of the bottom surface of the outlet tube 623 and exits through the outlet tube 623. Only fluid entering outlet manifold 621 through cutout 625 can enter outlet tube 623. The location of outlet tube 623 below inlet tube 611 allows fluid to flow from inlet tube 611, through the chamber and through cutout 625 into outlet manifold 621, and out through outlet tube 623 due to gravity.

Particles caught in the fluid flow below the wall bottom 642 or swept away from the dirt collection region 655 (if any) may strike the bottom surface of the bottom of the pipe loop 622. Such impingement may prevent or at least slow the flow of such particles into the notch 625.

As air flows over the wall top 641 and into the exhaust tube 630 or from the exhaust tube 630 to the chamber through the top of the wall top 641, the air pressure differential between the chamber and the conduit return 622 is equalized.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method of retrofitting an existing storm trunk is disclosed. First, the two separate portions of the trunk are replaced with two chambers, the second chamber being separate from and downstream of the first chamber. The rainwater treatment unit disclosed in the present invention or known in the art is then connected to the two installed chambers by an inlet pipe connected to the first chamber and an outlet pipe connected to the second chamber. A baffle is mounted in the first chamber at a height no greater than the top of the inlet pipe in the first chamber to direct fluid into the inlet pipe. In another embodiment of the present invention, a backflow preventer is installed between the outlet pipe and the second chamber.

A Portable Water Treatment (PWT) system 660 according to one embodiment of the present invention appears to benefit from a combination of principles regarding the interaction of particles and liquids in water. The first principle relates to the density of water compared to the density of the contaminating particles and the contaminating liquid. Particles and liquids having a greater density than water tend to sink and particles and liquids having a lower density tend to float. The second principle is that particles tend to settle more rapidly in still water than in rapidly moving or turbulent water. The third reason is that the longer the time allowed to settle, the more particles tend to settle out of solution. The fourth principle is that more particles tend to settle when they impact a solid surface. The disclosed PWT system 660 is preferably configured to maximize the amount of suspended solids, debris and petroleum products that can be removed from the water prior to discharging the water into a riparian system, other bodies of water or a storm water drainage system.

Fig. 8 and 13 show PWT system 660 on a trailer 670, the trailer 670 being adapted to be towed by a truck, tractor, or other suitable vehicle (e.g., bulldozer). Due to the size of the trailer and the weight of the water during operation of the PWT system, the trailer has a stabilizer or leveler 680 at each corner of the trailer to reduce the weight on the tires and axles of the trailer and level (or intentionally tilt) the top surfaces of the trailer and PWT system. Also shown are inlet port 830, outlet port 960, and drain port 685. Alternatively, system 660 may be configured on or as part of a pick-up truck, truck trailer, tractor-trailer truck, or other suitable motor vehicle. PWT system 660 is preferably constructed of metals such as stainless steel and copper, and alternatively it may be constructed of concrete, plastic, fiberglass, wood, or any other rigid material suitable for the purpose or a combination of any of these materials.

One or more drain ports 685 are connected to one or more settling cells within the system 660 to allow drainage of the cells. The PWT system 660 has four drain ports 685 on the front and two drain ports 685 on the back (only one shown).

In fig. 9, a preferred embodiment of a PWT system 660 is shown, the PWT system 660 being of rectangular configuration and having a front wall 690, a rear wall 700, a left wall 710, a right wall 720 and a bottom 730 joined together so that they are waterproof. The front wall 690, rear wall 700, left wall 710, right wall 720, and bottom 730 may be flat planar, rounded, or textured. Alternatively, the system 660 may be configured as a cylinder, sphere shape, irregular hexahedron, etc., or variations between these forms. The interior of PWT system 660 is preferably configured as a plurality of separate settling units of similar configuration. Alternatively, the sedimentation units may have different shapes and sizes and be asymmetric.

As shown in fig. 10, PWT system 660 has a middle divider 740 to form two rows, each row having three connected settling units. In each row, two partition walls 750 and 760 parallel to the front wall 690 and the rear wall 700 separate three settling cells. These parallel partition walls form the respective rear or front walls of adjacent settler units. The PWT system shown includes six settling units 770, 780, 790, 800, 810 and 820. Each row of settling units preferably operates independently of the other row of settling units.

A stabilizer/leveler 680 (not shown in fig. 9) is used to most functionally level the PWT system 660 to allow fluid flow through the system. Fluid flows into the first set of settling cells 770 and 780 through the respective inlets 830. The fluid flows under the graff wall 840 to an outlet pipe 930 and to a second set of settling cells 790 and 800, respectively. The fluid flows under the graff wall 841 to an outlet pipe 950 and to the third set of settling cells 810 and 820, respectively. The fluid flows under the graff wall 842 to an outlet 960 for discharge from the system. The debris walls 840 and 841 prevent floating debris from reaching the corresponding next stage settlement unit. The graff wall 842 prevents floating graff from reaching the outlet 960.

PWT system 660 is shown with six settling units arranged in two rows of three settling units for purposes of illustration and to facilitate description of aspects of the invention. However, PWT systems are not limited to this arrangement. One or more rows, each row having one or more settling units, may be used as required for a particular task.

For example, if the task involves treating a large volume of water with a very low load of suspended solids, the PWT system may include multiple rows of units, each with multiple units in series. This arrangement will allow the simultaneous use of multiple water pumps, while the pumping distance and time for removing suspended solids remain almost the same.

As another example, if the task involves treating a water source with a suspended solids load of large flocculated solids, the number of units in a row may be increased so that the fluid spends more time in the system to allow the solids to settle. Alternatively, PWT systems may incorporate a large number of settling units and multiple rows of units may be combined together in series. For example, a series of flatbed trailers or tractor-trailer trucks with multiple sedimentation units may be connected together. PWT systems are easily scaled to larger sizes. The size of each unit, the number of units in a row, and the number of rows of units are not limited and may be any amount required for a particular task.

The right hand row of settling cells shown in fig. 9 will be described to illustrate the treatment of water in connection with fig. 10. The left hand row has a structure and function in a corresponding manner. In an alternative embodiment, the left and right rows comprise different sizes, different numbers or different configurations of settling units.

Fig. 10 shows three settling units 770, 790 and 810 of similar construction. Each settling unit comprises two parts separated by a respective graff wall 840, 841, and 842. The first section comprises horizontal collectors 890, 910 and 920 and comprises the main length of the settling unit. The second portion is of shorter length and does not include a collector. The debris walls 840, 841 and 842 act as partial barriers to divide the settling unit into two fluidly communicating sections. Exemplary fluid levels are shown in units 770, 790 and 810 to aid in understanding the invention.

Horizontal collectors 890, 910, and 920 may have any shape, size, or surface configuration. The surface of the collector may be flat, corrugated, serrated, etc. The collector may be substantially sinusoidal, square or triangular in cross-section, or inclined to one side, inclined towards the water stream, or formed as an open box with depth, etc. The plurality of collectors may be arranged in a cascaded pyramid, with the topmost collector having the smallest width or length dimension of the collectors in the settling unit, and each successive collector increasing in width or length dimension until the bottommost collector has the largest width or length dimension. Alternatively, the collectors in the settling unit may be arranged in an "X" arrangement or a zig-zag configuration, each overlapping the collector below it so that there is no direct vertical water flow path from the surface of the water to the bottom of the unit.

The graff walls 840, 841 and 842 are preferably connected to the left and right sides of the respective settler unit that includes each graff wall. The top edges of walls 840, 841 and 842 are above the water outlet of the respective unit and above the top surface of upper collector 890 so that the surface of the water in the settling unit is below the top edge. The floating large particles or other material are prevented by these walls from reaching the outlet of the cell. The floating material will pile up against the wall and remain in the first part of the unit. The top edges of walls 840, 841 and 842 are shown in fig. 10 to be located at different distances from the top of the respective settling unit. Alternatively, the top edges may be located at the same distance from the top of the respective settling unit or at other different distances.

The bottom edges of walls 840, 841 and 842 extend towards but remain above the bottom of the respective settling unit, allowing water to flow from the first section into the respective second section through below the bottom edges. The bottom edge of each wall is preferably the same distance from the bottom 730. Alternatively, the bottom edges of the respective walls may be located at different distances from the bottom 730.

In the settling units 770 and 790, the annular tube arrangement 621 (shown in fig. 7) droops into the water collected in the second part of the respective unit. The top of the annular tube comprises two vertical tubes 630 extending above the water surface and open to the air. This avoids the creation of a siphon effect within the annular pipe arrangement 621 which draws water (and sediment) out of either unit. At the bottom of the annular tube arrangement 621 is a cut-out 625 to allow water to enter. From this cut 625 the water rises on either side of the annular tube arrangement 621 to enter the next sedimentation unit through the discharge tube 623.

As shown in fig. 10, for the settling unit 770, the discharge pipe 623 of the pipe arrangement 621 is connected to the outlet pipe 930. For the settling unit 790, the discharge pipe 623 is connected to the outlet pipe 950. For the sedimentation unit 810, a shelf 940 extends between the barrier and the rear wall to interfere with the flow of water. The rack defines a circuitous path to the outlet 960 as shown in fig. 15 to facilitate settling of suspended solids. Alternatively, the shelf 940 may be replaced with a ring-shaped tube arrangement 621 as in units 770 and 790, or the tube arrangement 621 in units 770 and/or 790 may be replaced with a shelf 940. As other alternatives, a combination of downwardly extending annular tube arrangements with vent holes and/or shelves may be implemented in the second portion of one or more of the units 770, 790 and 810.

As shown in fig. 10, the collector, graff wall, and outlet pipes of each cell are preferably lower relative to its previous cell to allow water to naturally flow through the system due to gravity and to equalize the water levels on both sides of the graff wall in the cell.

Generally, inlet water flows through inlet 830, around collectors 890, 910 and 920 and under wall 840 through unit 770 to outlet arrangement and through outlet 930 to unit 790. In a corresponding manner, inlet water from unit 770 flows through unit 790 to unit 810. Inlet water from the cell 810 flows through the outlet 950, through the cell 810 and through the outlet 960, around the collectors 890, 910 and 920 and under the wall 840 and around the shelf 940. The inlet and outlet tubes are sized for the expected volume and flow rate of the fluid.

More specifically, untreated water enters the PWT system 660 through an inlet 830 in front of the first settling unit 770. Upon entering the sedimentation unit 770, the untreated water preferably strikes the deflector shroud 850, causing the water flow to spread out and slow down. The deflector shroud 850 is preferably made of metal and is configured to divert the flow of water over a substantial portion of the upper collector 890. Optionally, the deflector shroud 850 is omitted.

After the inlet water hits the upper collector 890, its velocity decreases and its direction changes. Water cascades from the upper collector 890 to the middle collector 910 and then cascades to the lower collector 920. When the sedimentation unit is fluid filled to the height of outlet pipe 930, the inlet raw water flows into the pool of collected water and follows substantially the same path around the plurality of collectors. Preferably, sediment from the inlet water is collected at the bottom 730 of the neutralization unit 770 in each of the collectors 890, 910, and 920. Water with less sediment than the inlet water passes under the wall 840 to the annular tube arrangement and leaves the unit through the outlet 930.

The inlet water to unit 790 follows the same path as described for unit 790.

In cell 810, the flow of water is slightly different. The water passing through the outlet 950 preferably strikes the deflector shroud 850, causing the water flow to spread and decelerate. Optionally, the deflector shroud 850 is omitted. After the inlet water hits the upper collector 890, its velocity decreases and its direction changes. Water cascades from the upper collector 890 to the middle collector 910 and then cascades to the lower collector 920. When the sedimentation unit is fluid filled to the height of the outlet pipe 960, the inlet raw water flows into the pool of collected water and follows substantially the same path around the plurality of collectors. Preferably, sediment from the inlet water is collected at the bottom 730 of the neutralization unit 810 in each of the collectors 890, 910, and 920. Water with less sediment than the inlet water passes under the wall 842, around the one or more shelves 940, and exits the unit through an outlet 960.

After the water passes through the three settling units, it exits through outlet 960. Water from the outlet 960 contains less solids than the original inlet water and may be suitable for drainage into a storm water drainage system, river bank system, or other body of water. Depending on the amount of water to be treated, the amount of sediment in the water, and the quality of the water desired at the end of the treatment, the suspended solids treatment system can have a variety of different configurations.

As shown in fig. 11, PWT system 660 preferably includes removable caps 970, 971, and 972. Each cover includes a handle or lift point 973. The covers 970, 971 and 972 are sized to cover a pair of units 770 and 780, 790 and 800, and 810 and 820, respectively. The cover reduces the likelihood of airborne contaminants entering the system and provides access to clean the unit. In addition, the cover adds structural support to the system 660 during transport.

In fig. 12, a cross-sectional view of units 770 and 780 is shown without reduction shroud 850. Untreated water first strikes the upper collector 890, which collects the high density solids that fall directly from the solution. Preferably, the upper collector 890, the middle collector 910, and the lower collector 920 each have a corrugated surface 900 to capture sediment and create a dead zone of water movement to aid in settling of suspended solids in the inlet water. The suspended solids are collected in a collector and at the bottom 730 of each cell.

Water overflows from the left and right edges of the upper collector 890 to flow into the left and right middle collectors 910. These collectors collect suspended solids of somewhat lower density and any higher density sediment that may overflow the upper collector.

The water flows over the intermediate collectors 910 and then down to a lower collector 920 located below and generally between the intermediate collectors. After the water flows into the lower collector 920, it may flow to the left or right above the lower collector to the bottom of the settling unit. The number of collectors in the settling unit may be increased or decreased as appropriate for the specific task.

Fig. 14 shows an optional speed reduction shroud 850, which speed reduction shroud 850 may be oriented at an angle 851 with respect to the upper collector 890. The shroud 850 is preferably arranged to reduce the velocity and force of water entering from an inlet pipe (such as the inlet 830 shown). The shield 850 is also preferably configured to spread the inlet water over a larger area of the upper collector 890 and reduce the amount of sediment that elutes from the collector 890. By reducing the velocity of the inlet water and redirecting the inlet water, the inlet water will strike the collector 890 with less force.

Optionally, outlet tubes 930, 950, and/or 960 can include weirs to collect other particles. As shown in fig. 16A and 16B and explained with reference to the outlet tube 930, the outlet tube 930 may include a tube 931 of an original diameter and a tube 932 of a larger diameter having a weir 935. Preferably, the weir 935 is constructed of wire or other strong structure to collect particles. The increase in diameter between tubes 931 and 932 reduces the flow restriction created by the weir.

It is desirable to size the PWT system 660 and its components to allow sufficient water flow to avoid any unit's fluid backing up to cause flooding. The tubes 830, 930, 950 and 960 are preferably sized to allow water to flow at substantially equal rates. For example, in one preferred embodiment, all four tubes 830, 930, 950, and 960 are 3 inches in diameter. In another embodiment, tubes 830 and 960 are 3 inches in diameter and tubes 950 and 960 are 4 inches in diameter and include weirs. The flow rate of water with suspended solids into a row of settling units may be up to 50 gallons per minute, preferably up to 100 gallons per minute, and more preferably up to 150 gallons per minute. The larger configuration of the present invention can accommodate flow rates in excess of 150 gallons per minute.

Each collector preferably has a corrugated surface to increase the surface area for settling, create dead zones that reduce water movement, and separate sediment from flowing water. For illustrative purposes, collectors having a serrated surface configuration are shown in FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, 18A, 18B, 18C, 19A, 19B, and 19C. Other shapes and cross-sectional shapes may be used, including more random patterns. Furthermore, the corrugations may be parallel, perpendicular or skewed to the water flow. The collector in each settling unit is preferably removable for cleaning.

In fig. 17A, 17B and 17C, the upper collector 890 has flanges 1130 and 1140 along the front and rear top edges, respectively, and a corrugated surface 900A. The flange 1130 prevents water flow between the front edge of the collector and the front wall of the unit. The flange 1140 prevents water flow between the rear edge of the collector and the graff wall of the cell. Preferably, the water should flow into the upper collector and then cascade over the left and right edges of the collector to hit the middle collector 910 located below. The front flange 1130 has a cutout 1135 to accommodate the inlet tube 830. Along the bottom of the upper collector 890 at the front and rear edges are ledges 1150 and 1160 for contacting or connecting to the cell's respective front and graff walls.

Within the depth created by the sides and bottom of collector 890 is corrugated surface 900A. The depth of the collector and the number of corrugations within the collector are not limited and are merely a design choice for a particular task. A handle or attachment point 1160 is optionally provided to facilitate removal of the collector from the settling unit during cleaning.

In fig. 18A, 18B and 18C, the intermediate collector 910 has a corrugated surface 900B between two opposing front and rear walls. Along the bottom of the intermediate collector 910 at the front and rear edges are ledges 1170, the ledges 1170 for contacting or connecting to the cell's respective front and debris walls. Preferably, water should flow into the middle collector and then cascade over the left or right edge to hit the lower collector 920 located below.

Within the depth created by the sides and bottom of collector 910 is corrugated surface 900B. The depth of the collector and the number of corrugations within the collector are not limited and are merely a design choice for a particular task. A handle or attachment point 1180 is optionally provided to facilitate removal of the collector from the sedimentation unit during cleaning.

In fig. 19A, 19B and 19C, the lower collector 920 has a corrugated surface 900C between two opposing front and rear walls. Along the bottom of the lower collector 920 at the front and rear edges are ledges 1190, the ledges 1190 being for contacting or connecting to the respective front and debris walls of the unit. Preferably, the water should flow into the lower collector and then cascade over the left and right edges.

Within the depth created by the sides and bottom of collector 920 is corrugated surface 900C. The depth of the collector and the number of corrugations within the collector are not limited and are merely a design choice for a particular task. A handle or attachment point 1200 is optionally provided to facilitate removal of the collector from the sedimentation unit during washing.

As shown, the number of corrugations in surfaces 900A, 900B and 900C preferably gradually decreases and the depth of the corrugations gradually increases. Showing collectors with increasing corrugation depth from top to bottom as arranged in a settler unit. Alternatively, the size, shape and depth of the corrugations may be reversed in order or varied in the upper, middle and lower collectors or within each collector itself. If desired also, a greater or lesser number of collector heights can be used in the settling unit to allow the unit to be shorter or taller.

An example of using a PWT system according to one embodiment of the present invention will be discussed.

Example 1

Storm water strikes a construction site in construction, producing runoff with 22,000mg/1 suspended solids. The water collected at the construction site is treated using a treatment system having three sedimentation units, each having internal dimensions of 1.5m x 1 m. The treatment system is considered full when half the capacity of the first settling unit is full of solids, half the capacity of the second settling unit is full of solids, and a quarter of the capacity of the third settling unit is full of solids. The capacity of each of the settling units is about 1.6m³The capacity of the system before needing to be cleaned is therefore about 2m³。

A flow rate of 2251/min out of the construction site will result in the need for cleaning of the system after 11 hours of continuous use.

Example 2

A storm hits a construction site in a construction producing a runoff with 2,000mg/1 suspended solids. The treatment system in example 1 required cleaning after 127 hours of continuous use.

Although the invention has been described and illustrated with a certain degree of particularity, it is understood that the present disclosure has been made only by way of example and that numerous changes in the combination and arrangement of parts can be resorted to by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as claimed in the appended claims.

Claims (21)

1. A fluid treatment device for treating an inlet fluid, comprising:

a separation vessel connected to an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe, wherein the outlet pipe is located in the vessel at a position lower than the inlet pipe;

a wall within the container between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe;

the wall defining a headspace between a top of the wall and a top interior surface of the container;

the wall defining a bottom space between a bottom of the wall and a bottom interior surface of the container;

a wire mesh located below the inlet pipe and above a lower surface of the outlet pipe;

a drain pipe extending downward from the outlet pipe; and

an exhaust tube extending upwardly from the outlet tube.

2. The fluid treatment device of claim 1, further comprising a flow diverter positioned below said inlet tube to divert said inlet fluid.

3. The fluid treatment device of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of collectors configured to allow the inlet fluid to cascade from one collector to another.

4. The fluid treatment device of claim 1, wherein the device is a storm water treatment device and the inlet fluid is storm water comprising water and at least one of biomass, garbage, oil, grease, sludge, and sand.

5. The fluid treatment device of claim 1, wherein the drain comprises a pipe loop.

6. The fluid treatment device defined in claim 1, further comprising a collector on the bottom interior surface of the vessel.

7. A portable fluid treatment apparatus for treating an inlet fluid, comprising:

a vessel connected to an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe, wherein the outlet pipe is located at a position lower than the inlet pipe in the vessel;

a wall within the container between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe;

wherein the wall defines a headspace between a top of the wall and a top of the container;

wherein the wall defines a bottom space between a bottom of the wall and a bottom interior surface of the container;

wherein the wall defines a first interior of the container on an inlet side of the container; and

wherein the wall defines a second interior of the container on the outlet side of the container;

a collector located within the first interior at a height below the inlet tube;

a drain pipe extending downwardly from the outlet pipe within the container; and

an exhaust tube extending upwardly from the outlet tube.

8. The portable fluid treatment apparatus of claim 7, wherein said collector has a saw-tooth shaped cross-section.

9. The portable fluid treatment apparatus of claim 7, wherein said collector comprises a plurality of collectors.

10. The portable fluid treatment apparatus of claim 9, wherein said plurality of collectors are arranged to cascade inlet fluid from one collector to another lower collector.

11. The portable fluid treatment apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a deflector shield between said inlet tube and said collector.

12. The portable fluid treatment apparatus of claim 7, further comprising wheels for transporting said apparatus.

13. The portable fluid treatment apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a trailer having wheels.

14. A portable fluid treatment apparatus according to claim 7, comprising a plurality of said containers having similar internal structures.

15. The portable fluid treatment apparatus of claim 7, wherein the outlet tube comprises a weir.

16. A portable fluid treatment apparatus for treating an inlet fluid containing suspended solids, comprising:

a trough having a front side, a rear side, a right side, a left side, a bottom, and a removable top;

wherein the tank comprises a plurality of settling units;

wherein each settling unit comprises:

a vessel connected to an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe, wherein the outlet pipe is located at a position lower than the inlet pipe in the vessel;

a wall within the container between the inlet tube and the outlet tube;

wherein the wall defines a headspace between a top of the wall and a top of the container;

wherein the wall defines a bottom space between a bottom of the wall and a bottom interior surface of the container;

wherein the wall defines a first interior of the container on an inlet side of the container; and

wherein the wall defines a second interior of the container on the outlet side of the container;

a collector located within the first interior at a height below the inlet tube;

a drain pipe extending downwardly from the outlet pipe within the container; and

an exhaust tube extending upwardly from the outlet tube.

17. The portable fluid treatment apparatus of claim 16, wherein the plurality of sedimentation units are connected in series.

18. The portable fluid treatment apparatus of claim 16, wherein the plurality of sedimentation units are connected in parallel.

19. The portable fluid treatment apparatus of claim 16, wherein the plurality of sedimentation units are arranged in a plurality of parallel columns, wherein each column comprises sedimentation units connected in series.

20. A method of treating inlet water mixed with solids comprising the steps of:

introducing inlet water into an inlet of the treatment unit;

guiding the inlet water to enable the inlet water to spread over the horizontal collector;

collecting the solids in the horizontal collector;

preventing horizontal flow of inlet water with an inner wall within the treatment unit at the level of the inlet;

an outlet pipe flowing inlet water below the inner wall and from above into below the level of the inlet; and

inlet water is flowed into the inlet of the second treatment unit.

21. The method of claim 20, further comprising the step of discharging the treated water to a natural body of water or a drainage system.