Semi-submersible floating decanters and methods of use are provided. The
decanters are moveable between a non-decant position and a decant
position, and include a float forming an internal cavity, the float
having a central annulus, a weir having an inlet opening and positioned
within the center of the annulus and fixedly connected to the float
forming a passage between the float and the weir, and a discharge conduit
connected to the weir for discharging a supernatant fluid therefrom. A
depth adjusting mechanism is provided for moving the decanter within a
liquid between a non-decant position wherein the inlet opening is above
the surface of the liquid and a decant position wherein the inlet opening
is positioned within the supernatant to allow the supernatant to be
withdrawn, the depth adjusting mechanism including a pumping mechanism
for moving a fluid relative to the internal cavity.