Abstract: Floor or other large surface drying apparatus characterized by efficient placement and use within the apparatus of both a vacuum pump and a water pump preferably powered by one prime mover geared to drive both pumps at different speeds. Vacuum produced by the vacuum pump entrains an air/water mixture and directs said mixture into a plenum chamber disposed in the lowermost portion of the apparatus in order to reduce lift height to a minimum, water being separated from the mixture in the plenum chamber and by means of the water pump, discharged from the apparatus to a remote point through a discharge hose.

Abstract: The invention provides a paddle shaft assembly for a mixing apparatus of the horizontal drum type wherein rotating mixing paddles contained within the horizontal drum can be removed for cleaning or replacement without disassembly of bearings, drive components or drum supporting structure. In particular, the drum is fully supported by mounting structure located externally of the drum, a quill shaft being disengageable from a drive shaft at one external end of the drum and removable from the drum through an opening at the other end of the drum to enable removal of the paddle shaft assembly without altering the drum structure in any way whatsoever.