Implementation of an alternative skimming system and improvement of the final effluent quality in API separators.

Abstract

This article present and analyzes a series of pilot plant test results of a system far oplimizing !he efficiency of API type separators in the recovery of crude oils and light hydrocarbons (fuel oíl) from wastewater. The system consists of two phases:  the first being a new skimming device, as an alternative lo the traditional slotted pipe skimmer, that employs an oleofilic bond. In the second phase the quality of the separator effluent is improved by using natural adsorbent filters based on vegetal fibers. Four types of fibers were chosen: fique, water hyacinth, sáwdust, and  pineapple leave fiber. The skimmer is operated by means of a neumatic engine that spins a series of rollers which serve as support far an oleofilic bond. As the bond rotates, it removes by adherence the hydrocarbon floating in  the water.  During  the experimental  phase the variables were: type of bond material, velocity of bond rotation and angle of bond inclination with regard to that of the water surface. According to the results of the different tests the experimental system is effective in removing floating hydrocarbons, in the form of crude oil or as a refined product, from an aqueous media. The system can easily be adapted to oily wastewater treatment units, existing or projected.