Abstract: In a method and apparatus for separating and removing contaminants from an optionally continuously flowing aqueous effluent containing contaminants, effluent containing entrained contaminants is introduced into an enclosed chamber in which the contaminants are formed into a particle floc separable from the aqueous phase and is then advanced to a separation tank where floating floc is removed from the aqueous stream. The process may be augmented by the application of aeration, oxidation, and/or coagulation steps prior to the effluent entering the separation tank. Significant improvements are effected in respect of simplicity, power efficiency and commercial viability.