Abstract: A process and mechanism for extracting oil based paint and other generally less dense, immiscible materials from water circulated through a spray paint booth includes a tank which receives the mixture of water and paint through an opening in the bottom of the tank. The mixture is directed through the tank so that the less dense paint floats and is directed toward a beach or inclined plane member projecting into the tank. The floating material is then skimmed from the surface of the water in the tank. Clean water is simultaneously withdrawn from the bottom of the tank and recirculated through the spray paint booth. In a preferred embodiment, the tank is used in combination with an electrostatic water treater which treats water circulating through the spray booth. Such treatment enhances subsequent mechanical separation of the paint from the water.