Drainage filter system for debris and contaminant removal

DETAILED DESCRIPTION New drainage filter apparatus and systems for debris and contaminant removal have been discovered.
Such apparatus and systems are straightforward in construction and highly effective in removing particulate matter, debris and contaminants, such as hydrocarbons and other harmful substances from water flowing through a storm drain.
The present systems are also easy and inexpensive to maintain and do not hinder or obstruct water flow into drainage systems.
Generally, the present invention is directed to an apparatus for removing debris and contaminants from water passing through a storm drain, for example a storm drain along a city street.
The present apparatus typically comprises a debris trap adapted to fit within the storm drain, wherein the debris trap includes a porous element adapted to separate debris from a water flow passing through the storm drain.
The apparatus further comprises a frame having a peripheral portion adapted to direct the water flow into the porous element of the debris trap and to prevent bypass of the debris trap during low water flow conditions.
Preferably, the peripheral portion of the frame is sized and shaped to substantially overlap an edge of an inlet opening of the storm drain.
In a specific embodiment of the invention, the peripheral portion of the frame comprises an angled iron frame element.
Advantageously, the porous element comprises a sieve element that is removably connected to the frame to facilitate periodic removal and cleaning and/or replacement thereof.
The porous element preferably further comprises at least one handle member adapted to facilitate the manual removal of the sieve element from the frame.
The apparatus preferably further comprises a body portion depending from the frame and extending beneath the porous sieve element.
The body portion is made of a substantially non-water permeable material, for example a nylon or other polymeric material, and importantly includes an outlet for allowing the water flow to pass into the drain outlet into the sewer system