Oil spills, whether on industrial sites or in marine environments, present significant challenges for containment and cleanup. Among the many methods for addressing spills, oil skimming—the process of removing oil from the surface of water—has gained widespread use due to its efficiency and environmental benefits. However, misconceptions about oil skimming can hinder its effective application. Let’s bust some common myths and reveal the truth about this powerful cleanup method!

Myth 1: Oil Skimmers Only Work in Calm Waters

Reality:
While calm conditions are ideal, modern oil skimming technology has evolved to function effectively in various environments, including rough waters and industrial settings. Many skimmers are designed to adapt to changing wave patterns, currents, or surface disturbances, making them versatile tools in both open water and confined areas like harbors or tanks.

Myth 2: Oil Skimming Removes All Oil in One Pass

Reality:
Oil skimming is a process, not a one-and-done solution. The efficiency of oil skimming depends on factors such as the type of oil, weather conditions, and the skimmer design. High-performing skimmers can remove significant amounts of oil, but additional passes or complementary cleanup methods (like dispersants or absorbents) may be required for complete removal.

Myth 3: All Skimmers Are the Same

Reality:
Not all oil skimmers are created equal. There are different types, each suited to specific scenarios:

• Tube skimmers use a continuous tube to remove surface oil.
• Disc skimmers use rotating discs to adhere oil while repelling water.
• Belt skimmers are ideal for industrial applications.

Choosing the right skimmer for the job is essential for achieving optimal results.

Myth 4: Oil Skimming Is Ineffective for Large Spills

Reality:
Oil skimmers are integral to large-scale spill responses. When deployed in coordination with booms and other containment methods, skimmers can effectively recover substantial quantities of oil. Organizations like the U.S. Coast Guard and private environmental cleanup firms rely on skimming as a primary tool for managing significant spills.

Myth 5: Oil Skimmers Harm Marine Life

Reality:
Unlike chemical dispersants, which may have ecological consequences, oil skimmers are among the most environmentally friendly cleanup options. They physically remove oil from the water's surface without introducing additional chemicals or toxins, minimizing harm to aquatic ecosystems.

Myth 6: Oil Skimming Only Works for Oil

Reality:
Skimmers aren’t limited to petroleum-based spills! They can remove a variety of surface contaminants, including food oils, grease, and other non-water-soluble substances. This versatility makes them invaluable across industries, from marine operations to manufacturing facilities.

Myth 7: Skimming Is a Standalone Solution

Reality:
Effective oil spill response often requires a combination of methods. While oil skimming plays a critical role, it works best alongside containment booms, vacuum pumps, and bioremediation techniques. Together, these tools ensure a more comprehensive cleanup.

Myth 8: Oil Skimmers Are Too Expensive

Reality:
Although the upfront cost of skimming equipment might seem high, its long-term value far outweighs the expense. Skimmers are reusable, durable, and can prevent costly environmental fines or damages, making them a cost-effective investment for industries and governments alike.

Conclusion: Understanding Oil Skimming’s True Potential

By exposing these myths, we can appreciate oil skimming as a reliable, efficient, and eco-friendly method for managing oil spills. It’s crucial to approach oil spill response with accurate information, ensuring that we utilize the right tools and strategies to protect our environment and resources.

Whether you're in marine operations, industrial maintenance, or environmental management, understanding the capabilities and limitations of oil skimming is vital for success. Knowledge is power—let’s keep it clean, one skim at a time!

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.

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.

Oil skimmers play a crucial role as unsung heroes in the ongoing fight against oil contamination. Their significance transcends mere functionality, as they serve as guardians of environmental integrity and industrial efficiency alike. Whether tasked with preserving the purity of coolant systems to prolong the lifespan of vital industrial tools or ensuring that wastewater remains free from the deleterious effects of oil discharge into the environment, a well-operating skimmer emerges as an invaluable asset. In recognition of their indispensable role, here are 11 invaluable tips aimed at maximizing the efficiency of oil removal from both water and coolant systems:

1. Level Up: Ensure that the skimmer is mounted perfectly level. This is particularly crucial for skimmers equipped with free-hanging belts, as proper alignment guarantees smooth tracking over the pulleys, optimizing performance and longevity.
   
   
2. Wipe Wisely: Strike the right balance when positioning the wiper blades—not too tight, but with gentle contact against the belt. Over-tightened blades accelerate wear and tear, while insufficient tension compromises oil recovery efficiency, leaving behind valuable residue.
   
   
3. Time It Right: Operating the unit only when oil is present minimizes the risk of inadvertently collecting coolant or water. Consider utilizing a timer for automated operation, enhancing efficiency and reducing energy consumption by running the skimmer precisely when needed.
   
   
4. Calm Waters: To maximize effectiveness, deploy the skimmer during periods of minimal turbulence. Operating it during quiet times allows the oil to naturally rise to the surface, facilitating easier removal and ensuring thorough cleanup.
   
   
5. Be Prepared: Keep spare belts and wiper blades readily available to swiftly address any maintenance needs and minimize downtime. This proactive approach ensures uninterrupted operation and optimal performance.
   
   
6. Length Matters: Select a belt of sufficient length to ensure that the tail pulley remains submerged even at the lowest liquid levels. This strategic choice maximizes oil collection efficiency across varying conditions, guaranteeing thorough cleanup without compromise.
   
   
7. Size Up: Properly match the skimmer size to the dimensions of the tank. Opt for a skimmer that optimizes oil removal relative to the tank's size, ensuring efficient cleanup without unnecessary excess capacity or inefficiency.
   
   
8. Concentration Matters: When running the skimmer in scenarios with minimal oil presence, employ an oil concentrator to prevent the inadvertent removal of coolant and water. This targeted approach conserves resources and maximizes efficiency, ensuring optimal performance even in challenging conditions.
   
   
9. Belt Selection: Carefully select the appropriate belt for the application to enhance skimmer longevity and efficiency. Choosing the right belt minimizes wear and tear while maximizing oil capture capabilities, ensuring sustained performance over time.
   
   
10. Strategic Positioning: Position the skimmer strategically, with the downstroke of the belt targeting the bulk of the floating oil. Ensure that the skimmer is positioned at least 2 feet away from walls or tank sides to avoid interference and optimize oil removal efficiency.
    
    
11. Support System: Remember that assistance is just a phone call away. The friendly support staff at Abanaki Corporation is dedicated to helping you with any skimming needs you may have. Whether it's troubleshooting, maintenance tips, or product guidance, we're here to ensure your skimming operations run smoothly and effectively.

Abanaki Corporation stands as a beacon of excellence in oil skimming solutions, catering to a diverse range of industries with a steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship. Our motto, "Clean Our World," underscores our dedication to preserving the planet while serving our valued customers. For any inquiries or assistance with your oil skimming application, don't hesitate to reach out to us at 440-543-7400. We're here to help you make a difference!

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.

The Oil Concentrator operates without any reliance on electrical components or moving parts, simplifying its design and maintenance. Its functioning is straightforward: it directly receives liquid from the skimmer. The fundamental principle at play is gravity separation. To facilitate effective separation, the Concentrator tank is sized in a manner that allows sufficient duration for the oil and water to naturally segregate.

When it comes to discharging the liquids, the process is neatly organized. Water is released via a tube positioned with an open end close to the lower section of the Concentrator, whereas oil is directed through a separate drain outlet located near the upper part. As fresh liquid enters the Concentrator, the already separated water and oil are compelled to exit through their designated discharge tubes and ports. Enhancing this process, a sludge screen contributes additional dwell time, furthering the separation process. Importantly, this screen also acts as a safeguard, preventing any debris from compromising the quality of either the separated water or oil streams.

The Abanaki Oil Concentrator

The Abanaki Oil Concentrator plays a dual role, acting as a highly efficient oil-water separator capable of managing the recycling or responsible disposal of either liquid. In most operational scenarios, Abanaki skimmers excel at retrieving oil while leaving behind minimal traces of water. Nonetheless, as surface oil diminishes to a fine layer, measuring just 1/16 of an inch or even thinner, an increased amount of water or coolant might inadvertently get collected alongside the oil. 

To tackle this situation, the Oil Concentrator collaborates seamlessly with an oil skimmer, offering a conclusive phase of separation. The outcome is twofold: it provides water or coolant that can be channeled back into the recycling process, and it yields oil that is nearly devoid of water, rendering it suitable for efficient disposal.Installed at the discharge end of the oil skimmer, this oil water separator comes complete with mounting bracket, removable sludge screen and drain plug for easy cleaning. An optional thermostatically controlled heater is available for use with thick oils, or when the application is in freezing temperatures. (A heater should not be used in environments where explosive fumes might be present.)

Abanaki highly recommends pairing the Oil Concentrator with all belt oil skimmers for optimal outcomes. This combination greatly boosts skimming efficiency and also brings down the costs linked with oil disposal. This partnership doesn't just improve equipment performance – it saves money too. The Oil Concentrator refines the oil-water mix, making the separated oil purer and easier to dispose of. This reduces the expenses associated with disposal and supports eco-friendly practices. In essence, Abanaki's suggestion to use the Oil Concentrator with belt oil skimmers is a smart way to work smarter, cut costs, and be environmentally responsible.

How to Successfully Implement Oil Skimmers

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.

Disk oil skimmers offer an efficient option for removing tramp oil from coolant yet finding a high-quality unit offering durability can be tough. When properly selected and applied, disk oil skimmers are highly economical solutions for separating oil from water to allow its reuse or safe disposal.

How Do Disk Oil Skimmers Work?

Disk oil skimmers rotate a disk-shaped medium through the liquid. Oil is wiped off and discharged into a collection container in a manner similar to belt oil skimmers.

When specifying disk diameter, it is important to consider reach, the portion of the disk that actually gets immersed. Less disk area in the fluid means less oil removed. Obviously, fluctuating fluid levels can be a real problem.

Also, it is important to look at how much of the disk the wipers are actually wiping. If they wipe only 2 inches from the edge, then any reach into the fluid beyond 2 inches is wasted. As a result, removal capacities for disks can be relatively low.

Are You Buying High-Quality Disk Oil Skimmer?

Abanaki, the recognized leader in oil skimming, offers a low-cost disk skimmer for removing tramp oil from CNC machine coolant maintaining a high-quality product standard. The Abanaki Mighty Disk™ Oil Skimmer offers versatility while extending coolant life in machine tools.

This video demonstrates the important features on how to differentiate the high-quality disk oil skimmer from the regular disk oil skimmer. Watch the details on this small but mighty solution to extending coolant life.

The Abanaki Mighty Disk oil skimmer:

• Effectively removes 1-1/2 gallons of medium weight oil per hour
• Compact size allows for installation on almost any flat surface
• Portable design weighs less than 10 pounds, so one skimmer can be used for multiple locations
• Comes complete out of the box and ready to work

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.

Removing oil from water is a crucial step in many processes across numerous industries. From extending tool life to staying in compliance with government agencies, oil skimmers provide a cost-effective solution to removing oil from water or coolant.

Understanding How Skimmers Work

Despite the various designs that oil skimmers have, all of them rely on the same basic principles: Specific gravity and Surface tension and affinity.

Specific Gravity: Most hydrocarbons have a lower specific gravity than water. Without agitation, oil separates from the water and floats to the surface.

Surface Tension and Affinity: Normally, oil bonds more tightly to itself and other materials than to water. This affinity, and differences in surface tension between oil and water, cause oils to adhere to a skimming medium.

Understanding The Different Types of Skimmers

Not All Skimmers Are Alike!

• Belt-type oil skimmers use an endless belt of corrosion resistant steel or synthetic medium, which is lowered into the tank or vessel to be skimmed.
• Tube oil skimmers use a floating plastic hose that snakes out over the surface of the liquid and is then drawn back through the drive unit where oil is removed.
• Disk-type oil skimmers rotate a disk-shaped medium through the liquid. Oil is wiped off and discharged into a collection container in a manner similar to belt-type oil skimmers.

Bigger Isn’t Always Better & Smaller Isn’t Always Cheaper

Choosing a skimmer based on size speculation can be a costly mistake. Buying the smallest skimmer available because it is the cheapest or purchasing the biggest skimmer because you think it will work faster will not lead to successful skimming results.

Make A Plan Before Buying Oil Skimmer

Planning is important! Before spending money on a concrete pad and mounting arrangements, check where the oil actually collects in your process.

• Oil skimmers should be located opposite from the inflow and the tail pulley should be submerged two inches below the surface of the liquid in order to be as effective as possible.
• Using a tank that does not allow enough time for the oil to rise and float will not permit successful oil skimming.
• Always make sure your tank gives enough residence time for the oil to float.

Selecting an oil skimmer can be a complex decision-making process. There are various factors you have to consider about your application when choosing the right skimmer. However, Abanaki oil skimmers are durable and built to last, even in harsh applications. They have been proven in thousands of applications and are an environmental solution to unwanted oil in water.

Selecting and sizing your next oil skimmer correctly is important – the wrong decision can cost your facility thousands over the long term. Learn how Abanaki oil skimmers help you save by "taking just a little off the top." by watching the webinar below.

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.

Oil skimming is a dirty job. However, it is an important part of numerous industries. Some industries utilize oil skimmers to help stay in compliance with EPA regulations and to keep hydrocarbons out of the environment. Other industries need oil skimmers to help prolong tool life or keep the work place a healthy place for the plant operators. Regardless of the reason, oil skimmers offer a simple, cost-effective, and environmentally sound solution to removing hydrocarbons from any application.

Oil Skimmers Get the Dirty Jobs Done

Model 8 Belt Oil Skimmer

The Model 8 belt oil skimmer is the perfect wastewater oil skimmer for this job. It utilizes a continuous belt and wiper system to remove up to 40 gallons of oil per hour from the fluid surface. The belt, operating on a motor and pulley system, runs through contaminated liquid to pick up oil from the surface. After traveling over the head pulley, the belt passes through tandem wiper blades where oil is scraped off both sides of the belt and discharged. The tail pulley has flanges which allow it to roll freely on the inside of the belt without becoming dislodged. It requires no bearings and does not need to be fastened to the tank. If turbulent conditions exist, an optional tether and cage assembly prevents the tail pulley from being dislodged.

Oil skimming can be a tough and dirty job, however with the help of oil skimmers the job can get completely efficiently. Would an oil skimmer help with your application? Need help determining which oil skimmer would work best? Use our new interactive oil skimmer selection guide and find the perfect skimmer for your dirty job!

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.

Tube oil skimmer can be used in wastewater applications that are shallow in depth. Plus, tube oil skimmer is a great fit where a belt skimmer is too big.

The Abanaki Oil Viper tube oil skimmer 

The Abanaki Oil Viper tube oil skimmer is a surface oil skimmer that effectively removes floating oils by means of an oleophilic (oil attracting) ¾-inch diameter continuous looped tube. Due to the sleek design of the Oil Viper tube oil skimmer, it can skim in just inches of water compared to a belt skimmer which could need one to two feet of water to skim from.

The Oil Viper tube oil skimmer works off the same principle of the belt skimmer, the tube breaks the surface tension of the water, the oil is then collected and skimmed off by its unique wipe clean design. Two tube materials are available, the standard tube is great in a wide variety of applications; the high temperature tube is best suited for high temperature or caustic applications.

Oil Viper tube oil skimmer features:

• Compact design fits almost any tank or pit
• Explosion proof motors available
• Tubes with up to 100-foot reach
• Safety shut-off switch for safe operation
• Simple and effective drive design for lasting performance
• Unique wiping system for more effective oil skimming

Where to Use the Oil Viper?

The Oil Viper is a compact, versatile Abanaki skimmer. Its size and removal capacity make it suitable for most applications. From a mere shimmer on top of water to a heavy oil slick, the Oil Viper performs efficiently, removing up to 100 gallons of oil per hour.

Typical Applications:

• Wastewater sumps
• Coolant systems
• Food processing plants
• Parking lots, garages and service facilities
• Outdoor ponds, lakes and basins
• Underground tanks
• Ships bilges
• Aircraft service areas and tarmac runoff
• Truck, locomotive and other mobile equipment washing facilities
• Steel Manufacturing Plants

Rugged Construction for Harsh Conditions

The Oil Viper is designed to last for many years. With the proper configuration it can handle liquid temperatures up to 212°F, and the pH of the fluid can range from 3 to 13. The skimmer drive includes an oil filled gear reducer with bronze gears and ball bearings. The motor, gear reducer, and powder coated finish of the weldments give the Oil Viper exceptionally long life, even under the harshest conditions.

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

See the Oil Viper tube oil skimmer in action!

It is a common question asked every day by people in all fields of industry. Machine shops, steel mills, industrial manufacturers, and many others are faced with the problem of removing oils from coolants and wastewater on an everyday basis. They are faced with high disposal and maintenance costs. Some manufacturers are charged extreme amounts to have their contaminated water treated properly by their local water treatment facility.

Why Remove Oil from Coolant or Water?

Companies look for effective ways to remove oil from coolant or water to reduce costs and the liability of proper disposal. Another reason for removing the oil is a better work environment. Letting oil remain in the coolant tank allows anaerobic bacteria to grow. Anaerobic bacteria break down the components of coolant, causing it to need changing more frequently. Oil-laden coolant with a high anaerobic bacteria content has two other drawbacks as well. The first drawback is an unpleasant odor caused by the bacteria. The second drawback the smoke generated from the oil-laden coolant coming in contact with the operating cutting tool. One of the easiest ways to remove hydrocarbons from water or coolant is by using a belt oil skimmer. It is a low maintenance, easy to use tool for removing oil from water or coolant. 

Why Belt Oil Skimmer?

Belt oil skimmers work because of the differences in specific gravity between oil and water. Water has a specific gravity of one. Most oils have a specific gravity of less than one. Because of these differences, oil floats to the top of the water where it can be removed. A belt oil skimmer uses oil oleophilic material, (usually made of stainless steel or plastic), in the form of a belt to break the surface tension of the water to attract and collect the floating oil.

The belt passes through a set of wiper blades via a motorized head pulley where the oil is wiped off both sides of the belt. The oil then flows through the skimmer troughs and into a proper disposal container. Because the belt materials used do not attract water, very little coolant or water is picked up.

Advantages of Using Belt Oil Skimmer

Some of the advantages of using a belt oil skimmer over other methods to remove oil are the lower initial cost compared to coalescers and other filtration systems, low maintenance, no filters to change, and no mess involved as with absorbent booms or pads. With an oil skimmer, virtually the only required maintenance is replacing a belt and wiper blade set as needed.

Next, Abanaki oil skimmers require very little operating space, usually with no modification to the tank. Finally, our oil skimmers have pick-up rates of up to 200 gph with minimal water or coolant content. Other forms of oil removal cannot perform as well.

Wide Variety of Abanaki Belt Oil Skimmers

Abanaki Corporation manufactures a wide variety of oil skimmers to meet any size application. From a small coolant tank in a CNC lathe to a scale pit in a steel mill, Abanaki Corporation can supply a skimmer to do the job. We manufacture skimmers that can remove from 1 gallon per hour to 200 gallons per hour. We offer turnkey systems with a variety of motors, heat options, stands, and oil concentrators. Our skimmers are used on parts washers, in car washes, wells, steel mills, and any other industry where hydrocarbons need to be removed.

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

How to Successfully Implement Oil Skimmers