Abstract: An automated drainpipe clearing device is attached to the downstream end of a drainpipe. It includes a check valve and a suction conduit upstream from the check valve connected to a vacuum source. The check valve closes when suction is applied to the drainpipe through the section conduit. A controller allows the device to be programmed to automatically apply suction to a drainpipe for a predetermined amount of time at predetermined intervals. By periodically applying suction to the drainpipe, debris, mildew and mold are cleared from the drainpipe so that it does not clog. The check valve has a free-floating check valve and is self-cleaning.

Abstract: An improved dry grind method and system of alcohol and/or biochemical production for increasing the yield and/or purity of protein and/or oil in facilities that produce alcohol (e.g., ethanol) from corn or other cereal grains. In one embodiment, the method includes membrane filtration of a liquid portion from a high protein slurry that has been separated into the liquid portion and a high protein wet cake portion initially derived from a whole stillage byproduct. The liquid portion may be cooled in a heat exchanger to a temperature suitable for a desired membrane filter. Solids, dissolved proteins, and oils are separated by the membrane and concentrated in a retentate stream. Low molecular weight dissolved solids pass through the membrane as permeate. The proteins and oil from the retentate are returned to prior separation equipment that produced the high protein slurry and will be separated by said equipment increasing protein and/or oil yields and/or purity.