Abstract: The present invention relates to a system, method and apparatus for the extraction of hydrocarbons from contaminated solids. The method for separating hydrocarbons from solids comprising exposing the solid to a heat source of sufficient temperature to release substantially all of the hydrocarbon and water from the solids as volatile vapors, condensing at least a portion of the hydrocarbon vapor, and condensing the water vapor. The apparatus for extracting hydrocarbons from solids comprises a heat source capable of reaching temperatures sufficient to vaporize substantially all of the hydrocarbons in the contaminated solids and at least one separation tank in fluid communication with an outlet of said heat source for condensing at least part of the hydrocarbons. The present invention also relates the system for applying said method to said apparatus to extract and recover hydrocarbons from contaminated solids.

Abstract: A separation device for removing solids from an input stream is provided, comprising a vessel, such as a production vessel or storage tank, having an inlet for receiving an input stream containing fluids, such as oil and water, and solids, such as sand and silt. The vessel also includes a fluid outlet and a drain outlet. An optional fluid recirculation and injection device is mounted inside the vessel and delivers fluid to facilitate removal of the solids through the drain outlet. The vessel also includes an agitation or flighted device mounted adjacent to the drain outlet for contacting and dislodging solids which have settled within the vessel. The agitation device includes a rotatable shaft driven by a motor, and an agitation element, such as an auger, to break up the solids and move them toward the drain outlet. A method of removing solids is also provided using the auger device.

Abstract: A separation device for removing solids from an input stream is provided, comprising a vessel, such as a production vessel or storage tank, having an inlet for receiving an input stream containing fluids, such as oil and water, and solids, such as sand and silt. The vessel also includes a fluid outlet and a drain outlet. An optional fluid recirculation and injection device is mounted inside the vessel and delivers fluid to facilitate removal of the solids through the drain outlet. The vessel also includes an agitation or flighted device mounted adjacent to the drain outlet for contacting and dislodging solids which have settled within the vessel. The agitation device includes a rotatable shaft driven by a motor, and an agitation element, such as an auger, to break up the solids and move them toward the drain outlet. A method of removing solids is also provided using the auger device.