SURFACE EFFECTS SKIMMER DEVELOPMENTS

This experimental program investigated the use of a Surface Effects Skimmer in removing thin film oil slicks spread over large water areas by fast currents. This new skimmer uses a directed air jet to separate and lift spilled oil from the surface of the water in the form of a spray consisting of oil and water droplets. The oil/water spray is directed toward a rotating belt of polyurethane foam from which it is squeezed and pumped to a nearby storage tank. Tow tank tests were conducted at speeds up to 3.25 knots in calm, choppy and smooth wave conditions with oils ranging from a very viscous Venezuelan crude to a very light No. 4 distillate fuel oil. In a related series of experiments, it was found that presoaking the polyurethane foam belt in either water or oil had no effect on its ability to retain oil.

• Corporate Authors:

  Science Applications, Incorporated

  1651 Old Meadow Road, Suite 620
  McLean, VA  United States  22101
• Authors:
  • Trentacoste, N P
• Publication Date: 1975-6

Media Info

• Pagination: 79 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Oil recovery equipment; Oil spill cleanup; Water quality management
• Uncontrolled Terms: Oil separators
• Old TRIS Terms: Oil removal equipment; Oil skimmers
• Subject Areas: Environment; Marine Transportation;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00126362
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
• Report/Paper Numbers: EPA/670/2-75/066 Final Rpt.
• Contract Numbers: EPA-68-03-0327
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Oct 18 1975 12:00AM