Abstract: The present invention may be embodied as a processing system for processing raw slurry material. The processing system comprises a barrel member, at least one pre-processing member, and a plurality of separator members. The at least one pre-processing member and the plurality of separator members are supported by the barrel member, and the plurality of separator members define at least one separator gap. As the barrel member rotates about the processing axis A, the at least one pre-processing member transports at least a portion of the raw slurry material from the feed portion to the separator portion through the pre-processing portion. The plurality of separator members transport at least a portion of the raw slurry material from the pre-processing portion to the outlet opening through the separator portion.

Abstract: A milk pasteurizing unit having a force fluid convection chamber which is adapted to hold a milk product mass therein. There is an ejection nozzle which is in communication with a pressurization device such as a pump which forcefully ejects a nozzle over a separator plate which separates the milk product mass from a direct heat source such as a combustion chamber. The force convection of the milk prevents scalding of the same and allows for a more rapid heat transfer from the heat source to the milk product mass.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing settleable solids and unsettleable solids from a partially closed flush system in a diary milking operation whereby a first processing tank bottom removes settleable solids contained therein where the net current flow vertically in the process tank is less than the settling rate of the settleable solids contained therein. The process tank batch feeds a plurality of thickening tanks that are each allowed to settle for a period of time before transferring fluid is to a second separator. The method and apparatus is particularly conductive for feeding a digester.