When it comes to oil skimming, the adage “you get what you pay for” often rings true. A common misconception is that purchasing a smaller skimmer based on gallons-per-hour skimming capacity can save money on larger oil removal tasks. However, this approach can lead to ineffective oil skimming and long-term inefficiencies that outweigh the initial savings.

Why Under-sizing Your Skimmer is a Mistake

1. Area Matters More Than Volume
   
   Oil skimmers should be selected based on the size of the area to be skimmed, not solely on the amount of oil to be removed. A smaller or mini unit may struggle to cover a large surface area effectively, leaving behind oil and requiring more time and effort to achieve the desired results. Large surface areas often require industrial-sized skimmers to ensure comprehensive coverage and efficiency. Failing to account for area size can result in frequent maintenance interruptions and reduced overall productivity.
   
   
2. Capacity Recommendations
   
   An oil skimmer should have the capacity to remove at least twice the amount of oil required by the application. This ensures the skimmer can handle unexpected conditions and maintain performance over time. By choosing a higher-capacity skimmer, you also future-proof your operation against potential increases in oil output or changes in the application’s scope. Additionally, higher-capacity skimmers often operate more efficiently, reducing the likelihood of overworking the unit and extending its operational lifespan.

Factors That Impact Skimmer Efficiency

1. Optimum Conditions Are Rare
   
   Oil skimmer capacities are rated under ideal conditions, which rarely exist in real-world applications. Factors such as oil viscosity, water temperature, and the homogeneity of the oil can significantly impact the amount of oil removed. For example:

• Viscosity: Thicker oils require more effort and time to remove, which can reduce the effective skimming rate of a smaller unit.
  
  
• Oil Distribution: Uneven oil layers on the surface can lead to inefficiencies in skimming, particularly for smaller units with limited reach.
  
  
• Temperature: Cold water can increase oil viscosity, further complicating removal efforts.
  
  

2. Variability in Oil Removal
   
   Predicting the rate at which oil will be removed is inherently difficult due to changing environmental and operational factors. Weather, debris in the water, and fluctuations in oil production can all impact performance. A skimmer with a higher capacity acts as a buffer against these variables, ensuring consistent performance even under less-than-ideal conditions. This reliability is especially critical for industries where downtime or incomplete oil removal can have costly repercussions.

The Rule of Thumb

To avoid the pitfalls of undersizing, always opt for an oil skimmer rated at least twice the capacity you believe you need. This provides a margin of safety and accounts for real-world inefficiencies that may arise. For example, if your application requires a skimmer capable of removing 20 gallons of oil per hour, invest in one rated for at least 40 gallons per hour. This approach not only ensures efficiency but also allows your operation to adapt to unexpected changes without requiring immediate equipment upgrades.

Additional Benefits of Proper Sizing

• Reduced Maintenance: A properly sized skimmer operates within its intended capacity, reducing wear and tear and the frequency of maintenance.
  
  
• Energy Efficiency: Larger skimmers often use their energy more efficiently, as they can handle higher volumes without straining their components.
  
  
• Compliance Assurance: Many industries have strict environmental regulations regarding oil removal. A higher-capacity skimmer helps ensure compliance by consistently meeting or exceeding removal requirements.

Conclusion

While it may be tempting to purchase a smaller oil skimmer to save money upfront, the long-term inefficiencies and ineffectiveness make this an unwise choice. By selecting a skimmer based on the size of the area to be skimmed and ensuring it has at least double the required capacity, you can achieve reliable and efficient oil removal for your application. Remember, investing in the right skimmer now will save you time, money, and effort down the road. Proper sizing not only enhances operational efficiency but also provides peace of mind, knowing that your equipment is prepared to handle both current and future challenges.

To learn more about oil skimmers, please contact our experts at 440-543-7400 or visit our website: www.abanaki.com

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