OIL RECOVERY PERFORMANCE OF THE LOCKHEED DISC-DRUM DEVICE--A PARAMETRIC STUDY

Using test data obtained over the last few years, parameters affecting oil recovery performance of Lockheed disc-drum devices are investigated. Full-scale test results of the prototype High Seas Oil Recovery System (HSORS) showed very high recovery rates over a wide range of oil properties and thicknesses incuding thin slicks. Measured recovery rates exceeded 1,000 gal/min with less than 7 percent water pickup. The full-scale prototype tests were conducted at outdoor facilities at Battelle-Northwest & EPA's OHMSETT in calm water and waves, with and without oil, and with and without forward way. The effects of ambient temperature variations on oil properties and test conditions were carefully accounted for during data analyses. Earlier, a smaller size disc-drum device was tested to provide support and planning information for the prototype tests. Peak recovery rates were obtained for oil viscosity of approximately 200 to 1,500 centistokes. The recovery rate increased with oil layer thickness. Optimum disc rotation rate increased with relative current speeds. Relative current speeds improved the oil feeding rate and subsequently the recovery rate. Motions of the device in waves did not appear to significantly influence the recovery rate. Elevation of the recovered oil collecting trough above the water surface slightly improved the recovery rate for stationary operations. Some theoretical claims by Leibovich for a similar disc-drum device are found to be contradicted by the full-scale prototype test data, and are corrected. Disc-drum devices of different sizes have been operating successfully in harbors, ports, open seas, refineries, food processing plants, steel mills, railroad maintenance yards, and many other applications throughout the world.

  • Supplemental Notes:
    • Proceedings of Oceans '76, Second Annual Combined Conference, September 13-15, 1976, Washington, D.C.
  • Corporate Authors:

    Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)

    3 Park Avenue, 17th Floor
    New York, NY  United States  10016-5997

    Marine Technology Society

    5565 Sterrett Place, Suite 108
    Columbia, MD  United States  21044
  • Authors:
    • Chung, J S
    • Rudiger Jr, C E
  • Publication Date: 1976

Media Info

  • Features: References;
  • Pagination: 11 p.

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00173070
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
  • Report/Paper Numbers: 76 CH 1118-9 OEC Proceeding
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: Apr 26 1978 12:00AM