Abstract: Solids or insoluble liquids are removed from a liquid body by a partially immersed collector wheel which rotates about a horizontal axis and comprises a mesh sheet bent into a spiral shape. The sheet is formed of expanded metal to create contaminant-free turbulent zones adjacent to the sheet during rotation of the wheel. A receptacle with an upper opening is located within the collector wheel, in a position where it will receive the contaminants carried thereto by the trailing portion of the spiral mesh sheet. A screw in the receptacle discharges the contaminants to a discharge tube.