Oil Skimmer Blog

A steel mill is perhaps the most significant industrial intersection of oil and water. The extensive use of water for cooling and descaling, alongside the significant volumes of hydraulic, lubricating, and cooling oils essential for steel production, constantly challenge and demonstrate the truth of the adage "oil and water do not mix."

Oil Contamination in Steel Mills Process Water

The production of steel is a resource-intensive process, especially when it comes to water usage. It can take anywhere from 10,000 to 75,000 gallons of water to produce one ton of steel, depending on how much of that water is recycled. This significant range underscores the importance of reusing water whenever possible to reduce operational costs. However, in order for water to be reused in most steel mill processes, it must be free of contaminants such as oils, which can severely impact the mill's ability to recycle water efficiently.

Tramp oils are a common contaminant in steel mill process water, and their presence can lead to a variety of operational problems. When water is tainted with oil, its effectiveness as a coolant or lubricant diminishes, reducing the efficiency of key processes. In addition, oil-contaminated water cannot be released into the facility’s wastewater system without causing environmental hazards. Stringent environmental regulations often prevent the discharge of such contaminated water, and failure to comply with these regulations can lead to fines and increased operational challenges for the mill.

Furthermore, the presence of oils in process water can create an ideal environment for bacterial growth. This poses a significant health risk to workers and can further compromise the quality of the recycled water. If water cannot be adequately treated for reuse due to contamination, it leads to higher production costs as the mill is forced to rely on fresh water supplies. Ensuring water purity through effective contamination control is not only critical for reducing costs but also for maintaining safe working conditions and complying with environmental standards.

Abanaki Model 8 Oil Skimmer

What strategies can be implemented at a steel mill to prevent or reduce oil contamination in process water? One effective option is the Abanaki Model 8 Belt Oil Skimmer, which provides a reliable solution for extracting oil from water and water-based solutions commonly used in mills. This oil skimming technology leverages the differences in specific gravity and surface tension between oil and water, enabling the belt skimmer to draw in oil and other hydrocarbon liquids from the fluid's surface.

The Model 8 has the capability to reduce oil content in water to less than five parts per million, depending on the liquid's characteristics. It operates using a continuous belt and wiper system, effectively removing up to 40 gallons of oil per hour from the surface of the fluid. This unit can serve as a pre-treatment step before filtration and can be used in conjunction with coalescing systems for enhanced efficiency. Its versatility extends beyond steel mills, making the Model 8 suitable for a variety of applications, including:

• Wastewater sumps
• Parts washers
• Coolant systems
• Heat treating fluids
• Food processing plants
• Parking lots, garages, and service facilities
• Outdoor ponds, lakes, and basins
• Underground tanks
• Ships' bilges
• Aircraft service areas and tarmac runoff
• Washing facilities for trucks, locomotives, and other mobile equipment

Abanaki Model 8 Oil Skimmer Specifications

The Model 8 is designed for use in tanks ranging from one foot to 100 feet in depth, ensuring durability and longevity. With the right configuration, it can accommodate liquid temperatures up to 212°F and a fluid pH range of 3 to 13. Its skimmer drive features an oil-filled gear reducer equipped with bronze gears and ball bearings. The combination of a robust motor, durable reducer, and powder-coated housing provides the Model 8 with exceptional longevity, even in the most demanding and harshest environments.

Managing the complex relationship between oil and water in steel mills is essential for operational efficiency and environmental compliance. The significant water usage involved in steel production, along with the risk of oil contamination, highlights the need for effective solutions to maintain water quality. Technologies like the Abanaki Model 8 Belt Oil Skimmer offer a reliable means of removing oil from process water, facilitating recycling and reducing production costs. Its versatility extends beyond steel production, making it valuable in various applications across different industries. By prioritizing water purity, steel mills not only enhance their sustainability efforts but also ensure safer working conditions for employees, effectively addressing the challenges of oil contamination.

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

You are just one step away from downloading Abanaki's most detailed resource on our oil skimming equipment. Simply click at the button to get your ultimate guide now.

In industrial and environmental settings, effectively removing hydrocarbons from fluids is a critical task. The choice of the right oil skimmer and belt material can significantly influence the efficiency of this process. Given the variety of applications and operating conditions, understanding the factors that determine the suitability of different skimming solutions is essential for addressing hydrocarbon contamination. This blog delves into the considerations for selecting the appropriate oil skimmer, belt materials, and associated components to ensure optimal performance in various scenarios.

Application Variables

There are many variables in an application that will dictate which oil skimmer and belt material will work best in removing hydrocarbons from fluids. Key factors include:

• Type of Hydrocarbon: Different hydrocarbons have varying properties that affect skimming efficiency. For instance, light oils may require different handling compared to heavier, more viscous oils.
• Contaminated Fluid: The nature of the fluid being treated can impact the choice of skimmer. Water, for example, behaves differently than other industrial fluids, affecting the skimmer's performance.
• Environmental Conditions: Temperature, weather, and other external factors play a crucial role. Extreme temperatures can influence the viscosity of the hydrocarbons and the performance of the skimming equipment.
• Operational Requirements: Specific needs of the application, such as continuous or intermittent operation, determine the type of skimmer and its features. High-volume operations might need more robust, high-capacity skimmers.

Outdoor Applications and Heating Requirements

In outdoor applications, maintaining the fluidity of the skimmed product is crucial. Considerations include:

• Heaters: Essential for keeping the skimmed product fluid for effective removal, especially in grease skimming where higher viscosity at all temperatures is a challenge. Heaters ensure the hydrocarbon remains in a liquid state for efficient skimming.
• Polymer Materials: Limited in heat tolerance, often requiring only tray heaters. These are suitable for moderate climates but may not perform well in extreme cold.
• Steel Media: Can apply heat to both the tray and the medium, improving performance in severe winter climates. This dual heating capability ensures consistent skimming efficiency even in harsh weather conditions.
• Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel housing may be needed to resist corrosion. This is especially important in marine or highly humid environments where equipment longevity can be compromised by rust.
• Protection: Above ground enclosures and underground manway mounting kits provide additional protection from the elements, ensuring that the skimming equipment remains operational despite harsh weather conditions. These protective measures can prevent damage from debris, rainfall, and other environmental factors.

Material Considerations for Wiper Blades

Choosing the right material for wiper blades is critical for effective skimming. Common materials include:

• Nitrile: Suitable for use up to 176°F in neutral pH liquids, making it a versatile option for many applications. Nitrile wiper blades offer a good balance of durability and chemical resistance.
• [CRV]: Works well for higher temperatures and acidic or alkaline liquids. [CRV] wipers are designed to withstand more aggressive chemical environments, providing longevity and reliability in challenging conditions.
• Ceramics: Resistant to many chemicals but prone to breakage. Ceramic wiper blades offer excellent chemical resistance but must be handled carefully to avoid damage.

Hazardous Duty Locations

For hazardous duty locations, special considerations are necessary to ensure safety and compliance:

• Explosion-Proof Motors: Mandatory for locations with ignitable fumes to prevent the risk of ignition and ensure safe operation.
• Corrosion-Resistant Motor Housings: Required for sanitary washdown situations in food plants, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards and preventing contamination.
• Electrical Compatibility: Different voltages and power frequencies needed for some plants, requiring careful consideration during the selection process to match the skimmer’s electrical requirements with the plant’s power supply. This ensures seamless integration and optimal performance.

Unattended Operation and Control Options

In many applications, skimmers can run unattended for extended periods. Considerations for control options include:

• Unattended Operation: Typical for groundwater remediation applications at remote well sites, where continuous operation is necessary to manage hydrocarbon contamination effectively. Reliable unattended operation reduces the need for frequent maintenance visits.
• Manual On/Off Switches: Simple control option for starting and stopping the unit, providing straightforward operation.
• 24-Hour Timers: Allows for automated operation at predetermined times, ensuring the skimmer runs at optimal intervals without requiring manual intervention.
• Advanced Controls: Remote monitoring and automation can enhance efficiency and reliability. These systems allow operators to monitor skimmer performance from a distance, receive alerts for any issues, and make adjustments as needed, further reducing the need for on-site personnel.

Choosing the right oil skimmer and associated components involves careful consideration of various factors, including the type of hydrocarbon, environmental conditions, and specific application requirements. By understanding these variables and selecting the appropriate materials and features, it is possible to design an effective and reliable skimming solution that addresses hydrocarbon contamination challenges in diverse settings. Whether dealing with outdoor applications, hazardous locations, or the need for unattended operation, the right skimming equipment can make a significant difference in maintaining fluid purity and operational efficiency. Proper selection and implementation ensure long-term effectiveness, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance overall environmental safety.

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

You are just one step away from downloading Abanaki's most detailed resource on our oil skimming equipment. Simply click at the button to get your ultimate guide now.