Abstract:
Method for removing liquid from a non-absorbent article comprising immersing the article into a vigorously agitated solvent bath, transferring displaced liquid and solvent directly to a separation zone, withdrawing liquid which collects as one phase in the separation zone, removing solvent which collects as another phase in the separation zone, recycling this solvent to the solvent bath, and removing the article from the solvent bath. An alternative to the solvent bath is a spray treatment. Apparatus comprises various sumps and piping to accomplish the above, including at least one sump equipped with means for the vigorous agitation of liquid contained therein, such as ultrasonic vibration means if a solvent bath embodiment is employed, or at least one sump equipped with a spraying means if the spray treatment embodiment is employed. The above-described systems are particularly adapted for the removal of water from non-absorbent articles, and particularly articles with relatively inaccessible surfaces.