Abstract: A pair of substantially common elevation tank compartments are provided including lower sump portions and a first tank compartment includes an inlet pipe portion for admitting drilling cuttings in a downward direction into the first tank compartment. The inlet pipe portion includes at least one lateral cleaning fluid jet and the first tank compartment includes additional horizontal cleaning fluid jets for directing jets of cleaning fluid through the drilling cuttings as they are admitted into the first tank compartment and subsequently directing jets of cleaning fluid through the cleaning fluid and drilling cuttings within the first tank compartment below the liquid level therein.