Abstract: Apparatuses to remove entrapped air and debris from bitumen are provided. The apparatuses include a tank comprising a first and second compartment with a separating surface therebetween. Bitumen froth can be received in the first compartment and can flow from the first compartment to the second compartment via the separating surface along a first portion of the flow path. The debris is separated from the bitumen in the first compartment and eliminated through a disposal aperture to form intermediate bitumen. The intermediate bitumen then travels along a second portion of the flow path to the second compartment where it is heated to allow entrapped air to escape and form processed bitumen, prior to exiting from the apparatus. The apparatus is particularly suitable for removing entrapped air and debris from bitumen mined from bituminous sands. Related processes for operating the apparatuses are also provided.