An apparatus removes liquid from a liquid and solids mixture. The
apparatus may include a bowl-shaped, rigid container having an upper
portion, a lower portion, and a sidewall forming a chamber for receiving
the liquid and solids mixture. The container includes a plurality of
conduits extending radially outwardly along an inner portion of the
sidewall. A filter separates the conduits from the liquid solids mixture
in the chamber. Means is also provided for reducing pressure in the
chamber, which causes at least liquid to be drawn from the mixture
through the filter and conduits. Related systems and methods may be
follow from use of the apparatus.