Ocean vacuums, also known as marine debris removal systems, are fixed-point devices designed to remove trash and other debris from the ocean and other bodies of water. They function by essentially sucking water from the surface and separating out the floating waste.
Here's a breakdown of how they typically operate:
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Water Intake: These systems draw in surface water, which often contains floating debris like plastic, seaweed, and other trash.
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Debris Interception/Separation: There are two main methods for collecting debris:
- Suction: Some systems use a suction mechanism to directly pull in the floating debris along with the water.
- Conveyor Belt: Other systems use a conveyor belt that skims the surface, lifting trash out of the water.
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Filtration/Separation: Once the water and debris are collected, a filtration or separation process occurs. This can involve screens, filters, or other mechanisms that separate the trash from the water. This ensures the water is cleaned before being returned to the ocean.
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Collection and Disposal: The collected debris is then gathered and stored in a container, such as a dumpster, for proper disposal.
In summary, ocean vacuums act as stationary cleanup stations, continuously removing floating debris to help mitigate ocean pollution. They are a proactive approach towards a cleaner and healthier marine environment.
