Abstract: A sludge removal system for removing contaminants from a fluid storage tank. The sludge removal system includes a contaminant intake for receiving contaminants within the tank and a removal member for transporting the contaminants from the contaminant intake to the outside of the tank. The contaminant intake prevents the layer of contaminants or sludge from reaching a predetermined level within the tank. The contaminant intake is formed to define a plurality of perforations that can receive contaminants from the storage tank. Portions of the contaminant intake are in communication with the removal member via joint members, such as flexible or swivel joints. The joint members permit the portions of the contaminant intake to rotationally move between a first position distal to the bottom of the tank and a second position proximate to the bottom of the tank.

Abstract: A fluid pick up device for removing fluid from storage tanks includes an intake, a submerging member that maintains the intake submerged in the fluid, and a float that enables the intake to move in relationship to the level of fluid. The submerging member can include an extension communicating with the intake. The extension can be an adjustable arm connected to a delivery member by a swivel joint. A stopping member can control the arm's range of motion. The intake is angled downward, and the length of the arm is set to prevent the intake from passing into a contaminated volume of fluid near the tank bottom. The intake can also be movable. The adjustable arm can retract into the delivery member.