Oil-Water Separation

Often liquids contain a range of contaminates, from organic compounds such as oils and greases to thick tars and even heavy metals. Separation is often the best way to achieve bulk separation. Best Environmental can customize an Oil Water Separator (OWS) Unit based on your plants expected flow rates, concentration of containment(s) and any space constraints that may be present.

Most OWS units operate on the principle of Stokes Law, whereby the liquids will separate into three phases due to the differences in density. Often a coalescing media is used in the primary chamber to facilitate more efficient separation of non-emulsified oils and suspended solids. The heaviest components will settle at the bottom, where they can be pumped out periodically. Light non-aqueous phase liquids (NAPL) such as oils will “float” on top of the water and can be skimmed off at regular intervals. The remaining aqueous or clear phase, predominately water, can be subsequently treated with an adsorbent for final treatment prior to discharge.