Abstract: An apparatus for separating contaminants from a fluid stream is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a vessel containing a gas blanket. The apparatus will have contained therein a water skimmer member adapted for allowing for retention of the fluid stream. The apparatus further includes a first gas flotation cell contained within the vessel and arranged in series with the water skimmer so as to receive the fluid stream. Also included is an oil bucket positioned within the vessel and adapted to receive a portion of the fluid stream from the water skimmer and the first gas flotation cell. In one embodiment, the first gas flotation cell comprises a first screen member having a porous structure, a plate baffle having a first passage therein, and an eductor device adapted for introducing a gas stream into the fluid stream.

Abstract: Apparatus for the dispersed gas flotation and separation of insoluble, dispersed contaminants from a liquid comprised of a horizontal series of flotation cells, separated by baffles that permit the substantially horizontal flow of liquid from one cell to the next, each cell being equipped with one or more gas dispersing nozzles and screens which aid in the coalescence and flotation of the contaminant particles, and an inclined baffle above the horizontal series of cells to urge the floated impurities toward a weir positioned to remove the impurities from the surface of the liquid.