Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for separating mixed organic waste material into liquid and solid components. The apparatus may include an inlet pipe having openings at a bottom portion and top portion thereof; a front plate having an opening, wherein the front plate is connected to the inlet pipe at the inlet pipe opening, such that the front plate opening and inlet pipe opening align; a drum strainer capable of rotational and linear movement; a spindle assembly operatively connected to the drum strainer, wherein the spindle assembly facilitates rotational and linear movement of the drum strainer; a scraper plate fixed to an end portion of a shaft of the spindle assembly; a shroud connected to the spindle assembly, wherein the shroud is spaced apart from and substantially covers the exterior surface of the drum strainer; and wherein the drum strainer is positioned between the front plate and scraper plate.