Abstract: A process for the separation of hydrocarbons from oil-containing solids comprises heating the oil-containing solids in one or several in-series operated continuous mixers by addition of hot solids to the oil-containing solids, thereby forming a mixed solids phase, wherein heating is conducted at a temperature at which most of a hydrocarbon fraction in the oil-containing solids is transferred into a gas phase in the mixer(s), wherein the mixer(s) are positioned horizontally or slightly inclined in a conveying direction and wherein the mixer gas phase is cooled simultaneously to a temperature below 400° C. before or upon exiting the mixer(s). A mixer for the process comprises a continuous mixer having at least one horizontal or in flow direction slightly sloped shaft, fitted with wear resistant stifling devices.