Abstract: A method of removing solid matter from liquid using two or more sets of screening devices installed in series. Each set of screening devices consists of one or more identical or nearly identical screening devices. Each downstream set of screening devices has smaller openings than the preceding upstream set of screening devices. Solid matter collected by the screening devices is automatically discharged onto two or more conveyor systems that deposit the material onto one or more central collection areas for final removal and disposal. The present invention uses screening devices in a special configuration to achieve enhanced removal of solid matter from liquid (i.e. a series installation with screen opening size decreasing in a downstream direction).