Abstract: Drop tube inserts and apparatus adapted for use with a riser pipe of a liquid reservoir are provided. Apparatus include a drop tube insert at least partially disposed within an end portion of a drop tube. The drop tube insert includes a wall with inner and outer surfaces wherein the wall of the drop tube insert is devoid of any opening extending between its inner and outer surfaces.

Abstract: A drop tube segment includes a conduit with a first end portion and a second end portion. The drop tube segment further comprises a valve assembly with a valve member associated with the first end portion, a float, and a linkage device pivotally connected with respect to the valve member. The linkage device is adapted for communication with the float such that the float may facilitate in adjusting the position of the valve member with respect to the first end portion of the conduit in response to a liquid level in a liquid reservoir. The drop tube segment further includes a fastening section located at the second end portion of the conduit for fluid tight fastening with an end portion of another drop tube segment. The fastening section comprises a sealing surface and a threaded portion adapted for threaded engagement with a threaded portion of another drop tube segment.

Abstract: Drop tube segments are provided. Each drop tube segment may be attached to another drop tube segment of a drop tube assembly. The drop tube segments include a wall with a fastener receiving structure that is devoid of any opening extending between inner and outer surfaces of the wall. Methods of making a drop tube assembly are also provided. The methods include the step of inserting a second end portion of a first conduit over a first end portion of a second conduit while edges of an aperture extend radially outwardly away from an outer surface of a first wall of the first conduit.

Abstract: A container such as a sump having a bottom, at least one wall extending upwardly from the bottom, and a flange connected to the at least one wall and projecting therefrom. The flange preferably has apertures extending partially into the interior portion of the flange from its exterior surface. The flange provides structural rigidity to the container and prevents irregularities from being formed in the walls during manufacture. Preferably, the container is a sump having four lower walls, four upper walls integrally connected to the lower walls by the flange, and four entrance walls integrally connected to the upper walls and defining a mouth for receiving fluids. The flange preferably has an upper surface having upper apertures and a lower surface having lower apertures that are axially aligned with the upper apertures. Pins may utilized during manufacture of the sump by rotational molding to form apertures within the flange and aid in preventing irregularities from being formed.

Abstract: A dispenser sump which includes a deflection surface and a distribution channel for distributing liquids about the interior periphery of the sump to allow insertion of fluid removal apparatus along any wall of the sump. The sump also provides increased structural rigidity to support backfill surrounding the sump and to maintain shape integrity.

Abstract: A unitary sump frame made from a continuous material is disclosed. A substantially planar and continuous flange has an inner perimeter defining an opening in the frame and an outer perimeter. A lip is integrally connected to the flange and extends downwardly from the flange. The lip includes a securing mechanism that is operative to attach a component to the frame. A lug is integrally connected to the lip and extends away from the opening. The lug is operative for anchoring the frame.