Abstract: A mixing system and valve(s) are provided for a tank or other container of liquid to be mixed. A directional flow control valve is secured within the tank. The directional flow control valve includes a plate secured adjacent an inlet supply opening or an outlet supply opening in the tank. The valve plate has openings for enabling controlled maximum liquid flow into or out of the inlet supply opening or the outlet supply opening, respectively. A floating disc is also provided within the valve and located in an aligned position to enable sealing engagement of the floating disc over the plate openings when the flow control valve is in a closed position, and to enable movement of the floating disc away from the plate openings when the flow control valve is in an open position. An inlet and outlet supply is also provided to supply liquid into and out of the tank. The directional flow control valve is secured adjacent either an inlet and/or outlet supply and the tank.

Abstract: A sludge removal suction header is provided having an obtuse angled header shape and a much larger header cross section width dimension than presently utilized in the existing art. A longer width to height above ground ratio is produced which invokes ground effects. Internal annular passages are provided for equalizing the pressure distribution inside the header, thereby improving flow distribution across all holes, and especially those holes at the end of the header which are furthest away from the vacuum/suction source. An optimized number and diameter size of suction holes is further provided, as well as flow splitters, located beneath the header.