7 Effective Ways to Remove Oil from Wastewater

Freytech Inc - Remove Oil from Wastewater - Are Oil Skimmers Environmentally Friendly? What is an Air Compressor Oil Water Separator? FOG Removal

Table of Contents

Ever thought about how industries clean or remove oil from wastewater without harming the environment? As industries grow, so does the problem of oily wastewater. This is bad for both our ecosystems and health. It’s important to know how to separate oil from water to keep our water clean.

This article explores top methods for treating wastewater. We aim to stop harmful oil from reaching our water sources. This is key for keeping our environment safe.

Key Takeaways

  • Oily wastewater poses significant environmental risks and requires effective removal methods.
  • Understanding oil water separation techniques is essential for compliance with legislation.
  • Prompt response actions can drastically reduce the long-term impact of oil spills.
  • Various strategies exist, ranging from natural sorbents to advanced technological solutions.
  • Regular maintenance enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of separation systems.

Understanding the Importance of Oil Removal from Wastewater

Removing oil from wastewater is key to keeping our ecosystem healthy. Sources like kitchen use and industrial operations add to oily wastewater. This makes treating it effectively very important.

Oil in water harms water quality and poses big environmental challenges. Strict rules are in place to protect our oceans and rivers.

Environmental Impact

Oil and grease in wastewater can harm the environment a lot. They can reduce oxygen levels in water by up to 70%. This is bad for fish and other sea creatures.

Toxic substances like PAHs are found in oil spills. These substances can be harmful to marine life. Over 90% of sea creatures in polluted areas have these toxins in their bodies.

Regulatory Requirements

Rules set by governments are strict about oil and grease in water. They usually don’t allow more than 10 to 15 mg/L in industrial waste. Following these rules is important for the environment.

If companies don’t follow these rules, they can face big fines. This shows how critical it is to have good systems for treating oily wastewater.

Potential Risks of Oil Pollution

Oil pollution can contaminate groundwater with harmful substances. Studies show that up to 30% of wells in polluted areas may have oil in them. This is a big problem.

More oil in water can also increase waterborne diseases. This is true for areas without good treatment systems. We need better ways to treat oily wastewater to avoid these risks.

Freytech Inc - Why are oil water - separators used in industries? Are Below Ground Separators More Efficient? Remove Oil from Wastewater

The Role of Oil Water Separators (OWS)

Oil water separators are key in managing wastewater. They efficiently remove oil from liquid waste streams. These devices use gravity and specific physical mechanisms for oil separation. Knowing how OWS work is important for businesses looking to manage wastewater correctly.

How OWS Work

The separation process mainly relies on Stoke’s Law. This law explains how fluids behave under different conditions. Oil droplets, being less dense than water, naturally rise to the surface.

OWS devices have features that help this process. They make oil separation more efficient. Gravity-based separators, or API separators, use water turbulence to help separate oil molecules. Coalescing oil separators use materials to help oil droplets clump together, making them easier to separate.

Types of Oil Water Separators

There are two main types of oil water separators: gravity-based and coalescing oil separators. Each type meets different needs in industrial settings. Gravity-based systems work well when there’s not too much oil in the water.

Coalescing oil separators are better for situations with less oil. They use surface area interactions to improve separation efficiency. Choosing the right OWS is critical for meeting regulations and reducing environmental harm.

Freytech Inc.’s Enhanced Coalescing Technology

Freytech Inc. has led the way in wastewater treatment with its enhanced coalescing technology. This technology greatly improves oil removal from wastewater. It meets the need for efficient oil separation and follows strict environmental standards.

Key Features of Our Technology

Freytech Inc.’s enhanced coalescing technology offers top-notch oil-water separation. It can separate oil levels as low as 0.1 PPM, beating North America’s discharge limits. Our separators handle flow rates from 25 to over 640 gallons per minute, fitting various industrial needs.

They also separate emulsified oils well, something old methods often can’t do.

Comparison with Traditional Methods

Our technology outshines traditional oil water separators in many ways. Old systems can’t separate oil below 10 PPM, but ours goes below 5 PPM. Plus, our optional patented oil skimmers recover oil with 99.7% purity.

This makes our systems very efficient. Our technology helps reduce environmental harm and helps businesses meet environmental rules. This makes Freytech Inc. a top name in wastewater treatment.

Achieving Low PPM Separation Efficiency

In North America, strict discharge standards are in place. They require a maximum oil concentration of 10 PPM in treated wastewater. The goal is to reduce oil contamination effectively using advanced oily water treatment technologies.

By using these technologies, we can achieve low PPM separation. This improves the overall environmental quality.

Discharge Standards in North America

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sets rules for oil and grease in industrial effluents. The limits vary based on the type of discharge, ranging from 10 to 15 mg/L. Companies must meet these standards to reduce environmental impact and avoid fines.

Our Separation Capabilities

Freytech uses enhanced coalescing technology for remarkable separation. This technology consistently keeps oil concentrations below 5 PPM. Our oily water treatment technologies are ideal for industries with a lot of oily wastewater.

Features like hydrocyclone oil separators remove up to 99% of oil. They also handle high-flow volumes efficiently, saving space.

Benefits of Using Freytech OWS Systems

Freytech’s Oil Water Separator (OWS) systems are top-notch for managing wastewater. They help industries save money while protecting the environment. These systems are designed to be efficient, saving on costs and meeting strict standards for oily wastewater treatment.

Cost-Effectiveness

Choosing Freytech OWS systems means big savings over time. They efficiently separate oily contaminants, cutting down on the need for expensive external treatments. This way, businesses stay compliant and avoid fines, freeing up money for important work.

These systems last a long time, which means less money spent on replacements. This makes them a smart choice for managing wastewater.

Longevity and Maintenance

Freytech OWS systems are built to last with little upkeep needed. Their coalescing media can handle many cycles without losing performance. This means less time and effort spent on maintenance, keeping operations smooth.

Using these systems makes wastewater treatment easier and more sustainable. It’s good for the planet and helps businesses save money.

Freytech Inc - What is an Oil Skimmer and How Does it Work? Can Oil Skimmers Remove All Types of Oil? Remove Oil from Wastewater

Applications of Freytech OWS Packages

Freytech’s oil water separation systems offer efficient solutions in many sectors. They meet strict environmental standards. These systems tackle oil pollution challenges in various settings, keeping treated water safe.

For Industrial Use

In industrial settings, like manufacturing and automotive, treating wastewater is key. Freytech OWS packages handle up to 1000 Imperial gallons per minute. They’re perfect for big operations.

Our separators are great at separating oil and water, even when it’s mixed. They can start with 2000 PPM and get it down to less than 5 PPM. This technology helps facilities meet tough regulations.

For Municipal Wastewater Treatment

Municipal uses also benefit from Freytech OWS systems. They can lower oil levels to as low as 0.1 PPM. This meets the CAN/ULC-S656 standard, which is very strict.

These systems fit smaller places like workshops and car washes. They show how versatile and effective these systems are in different places.

The Importance of Oil Skimmers

Oil skimmers play a key role in the oil recovery process. They are used in wastewater treatment and during spill responses. These systems remove the oil layer on the water’s surface, keeping the water quality high.

Modern oil recovery technologies have improved a lot. They work better in different environments now.

How They Function

Oil skimmers use physical methods to separate oil from water. They don’t need harmful chemicals. They can handle rough waters and industrial settings.

There are different types of oil skimmers. Tube skimmers, disc skimmers, and belt skimmers are some examples. Each is designed for specific uses. The efficiency of these devices can vary, but high-quality models can remove a lot of oil.

Advantages of Our Patented Oil Skimmer

Freytech’s patented skimmer has many benefits. It collects purified oil at 99.7% purity. This is very important in big spill responses.

Using skimmers also saves money. They prevent equipment clogging and need less maintenance. This leads to better water quality and saves energy in the long run.

Environmental Compliance and Sustainability

Managing wastewater in industries like oil and gas is a big responsibility. It’s important to follow environmental rules set by groups like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These rules help keep our water and air clean.

Importance of Compliance

Following the rules is key for oil and gas companies. They produce a lot of wastewater, so they need good treatment methods. By doing this, they can avoid fines and help the environment by using less fresh water.

Following the rules also means they can use treated water for farming. This can bring in extra money for the company.

Freytech’s Commitment to Sustainability

Freytech is all about making things better for the planet. We use new technology to clean wastewater. Our methods make the water safer for the environment.

We also use energy-saving tools and update our tech often. This helps us be more eco-friendly. To learn more, check out Freytech sustainability practices.

Recycling Separated Oil Effectively

Recycling separated oil is key in managing wastewater. It brings both environmental and economic benefits. Businesses can use or sell this oil, turning waste into profit. This approach helps companies follow environmental rules and work better overall.

The Economic Value of Recycled Oil

Recycling oil has big economic benefits. Companies can cut water disposal costs by up to 30%. This also helps avoid legal issues from not following environmental rules.

Using advanced oil separators cuts down on hazardous waste. This saves money on disposal. Plus, it makes equipment last longer, saving on maintenance and repairs.

Easy Recycling Processes

Streamlining oil recycling makes it easier for companies to manage wastewater. Technologies like coalescing plate separators can separate oil up to 95% efficiently. This means more oil can be recovered.

Integrating separators into operations, like closed-loop wash racks, saves resources. It also cuts down on water use. This boosts ecological sustainability and supports long-term success.

Ensuring Efficient Maintenance of OWS

Regular maintenance of oil water separators is key to their long life and good performance. It ensures they work well and meet environmental rules. Cleaning and reusing coalescing media is a big part of this.

Cleaning and Reusing Coalescing Media

Cleaning the coalescing media regularly is vital. Its design helps catch and separate oil droplets. Keeping it clean helps liquids flow smoothly, without problems.

This makes the system work better and last longer. It’s a smart way to keep oil water separators efficient.

Regular Maintenance Tips

Sticking to a maintenance schedule is important. You should check the systems often for sludge and make sure they meet standards. For example, models like SPT-20 and SPT-50 need regular checks.

Following these tips can cut down on failures by half. It keeps the system running well and meets environmental rules.

Contact Freytech Inc. for Solutions to Remove Oil From Wastewater

Looking for effective wastewater treatment? Reaching out to the right experts is key. Freytech Inc. is ready to help with innovative solutions for oil removal from wastewater. Our systems, like advanced oil water separators and oil skimmers, meet industry standards and tackle your unique challenges.

Our Customer Support

Customer satisfaction is our main goal at Freytech. For any questions about our technology or support, check out our contact information for solutions. Our team is ready to offer guidance that fits your needs, whether it’s about meeting regulations or boosting efficiency.

Wastewater treatment can be complex, but we get it. In industries like mining and food processing, oil is often a problem. With Freytech’s support, our innovative products help with sustainable practices and effective oil separation. This leads to better environmental results. Contact us today to see how we can help with your wastewater treatment needs.

Hard Water Treatment - Oil Water Separation Systems - Remove Oil From Wastewater

FAQ

What methods are effective to remove oil from wastewater?

Effective methods include oil skimming, coalescing oil separators, and chemical treatments. Each method works best in different situations, depending on the oil-water separation needs.

How do oil water separators (OWS) function?

Oil water separators use gravity and physical mechanisms to remove oil. They work by separating oil from water based on their specific gravity difference.

What are the environmental impacts of oily wastewater?

Oily wastewater can harm water bodies and aquatic life. It can cause oxygen depletion and be toxic, leading to long-term environmental damage.

What are the current regulatory requirements for oily wastewater discharge?

In North America, oily wastewater must not exceed 10 PPM. Following these limits is key to protecting water bodies and the environment.

Why is recycling separated oil important?

Recycling separated oil can be very profitable. It can be reused or sold, making wastewater treatment a source of income.

What advantages does Freytech’s OWS system offer?

Freytech’s OWS systems are affordable, durable, and need little upkeep. They help cut down on costs while meeting environmental standards.

How effective is Freytech’s coalescing technology?

Freytech’s coalescing technology can remove oil as low as 0.1 PPM. This is better than traditional methods and meets strict environmental standards.

What industries can benefit from Freytech OWS packages?

Freytech OWS packages are good for many sectors like manufacturing and automotive. They offer tailored solutions for different oil-water separation needs.

How do oil skimmers improve oil recovery from wastewater?

Oil skimmers remove oil from the water surface continuously. They can achieve up to 99.7% oil recovery, ensuring water purity.

How can I ensure the efficient maintenance of oil water separators?

Regular maintenance is key. This includes cleaning coalescing media, following protocols, and doing inspections. It keeps the system running well and reduces downtime.

How can I contact Freytech Inc. for support regarding wastewater treatment?

Freytech Inc. is dedicated to customer service. You can contact us through our website for any questions or to learn more about our solutions.

FreyTech's Line of Quality Below Ground Oil Water Separators

EcoLine B

Enhanced Coalescing Oil Water Separators for installation inside new or to RETROFIT existing concrete or steel tanks. This series is extremely versatile in that it can be installed inside existing above or below ground round, square or rectangular tanks. Instead of shipping heavy concrete / steel tanks cross country, simply procure a standard off the shelf tank locally and connect our turnkey separator kit to the outlet pipe inside your tank. 

 
This unique solution can save operators substantial time and expense since they can now utilize an existing tank instead of having to replace it with costly new tanking systems. Separates free non-emulsified oil, hydrocarbons, diesel, gasoline, fuels, from water to below 5 parts per million (PPM) guaranteed. Affordable small units for flow rates starting between 50 gallons per minute (GPM) to over 1,100 GPM. 
 
The filter / coalescing media can be washed by hand with a hose for years of trouble free efficient use. Maintenance is conducted above ground without having to enter tank making it more affordable, quicker, cleaner and safer. Mechanical automatic shut off valve included to prevent accidental discharge in the event the unit is not maintained on a timely basis. No electrical power requirements.

Typical Fields of Application

  • Gasoline stations and other fueling facilities.
  • Electrical transformers, power generation plants.
  • Oil storage areas.
  • Transportation fueling systems, diesel, gasoline, jet fuel, etc.
  • Surface and washing water from petrol stations, car wash and
  • repair workshops, pressure washer cleaning, wash water recycling.
  • Treatment of industrial process waste water.
  • Treatment of waste water from oil-removal plants.
  • Purification upstream to emulsion breakers, ultra- and microfiltration.
  • Refineries – extremely hot oily water applications.

Oil Water Separation Process Description for Ecoline B Series

Following, we provide technical information and calculations regarding oil water separation with the EcoLine B 3 (50 GPM / 3 L/S flow rate)  oil water separator.

Stokes Law and other considerations as applied to Freytech oil water separators.

The oil/water mixture flows into the tank where there is sufficient dwell time for some of the solids / mud (if any are present) to sink to the bottom of this section of the tank. The oil water mixture now contains fewer solids as it continues downstream to the section of the tank where the coalescing media panel is installed. Some of the larger oil droplets present in the waste stream will start to rise to the surface and form an oil layer or a sheen floating on the surface of the water.
The wastewater still contains small oil droplets which have not had enough retention time to rise to the water surface and this waste stream continues its flow downstream and enters the coalescing media.

What actually separates the oil from the water is our oleophilic media made of washable and durable reticular polyurethane-polyether material. Oil is attracted to this media. As soon as each oil droplet in the waste stream comes into contact with the coalescing media, it is separated and immediately collides with other oil droplets which are also being simultaneously separated.

As these oil droplets continue to collide with each other, they coalesce together forming larger oil droplets and then detach from the media and rise to the water surface because of their specific weight (oil being lighter than water). 

The reticular polyurethane-polyether material which separates the oil from the water has a surprisingly large surface area given its composition and consistency.

The formula for the minimum effective surface of the coalescing media is A = 1.4 x NS m² Surface (in m²) = 1. 4 x Nominal size.
A conventional 50 GPM / 3 l/s treatment flow rate below ground separator has: 3 x 1.4 = 4.2 m2 (45 ft2 ) of minimum required coalescing surface area. The Freytech Inc. EcoLine B-ADD 3 model has  9 m2 (97 ft2) of effective coalescing surface area.

ECOSORP

FOR EMULSIFIED AND DISSOLVED OIL: (ECOSORP BELOW 1 PPM)

The EcoSorp oil water separator is for use to obtain below 1 part per million (PPM) separation efficiencies. It is for use with free or PHYSICALLY EMULSIFIED AND DISSOLVED OIL by adsorption from water. This represents exceptionally clean separation. The EcoSorp requires filter / coalescing media cartridge replacement since it works through adsorption and the media becomes saturated over time (typically once a year). Recommended for use downstream of a Freytech Inc. above or below ground 5 PPM oil water separator to prolong its useful life. The media can absorb up to 22 lbs (10 kg) of oil. Units available with flow rates up to 100 gallons per minute (GPM) / 380 liters per minute (L/M). No electrical power requirements.

Typical Fields of Application

  • For emulsified and dissolved oil. 

HIGH FLOW RATE OIL WATER SEPARATOR

Each XL Separator Panel can effectively treat oily water flow rates ranging from 320 GPM (20 l/s) to 640 GPM (40 l/s). Achieves 5 Part per Million (PPM) separation of free non-emulsified oil. By far, the most affordable method for large industrial oil-water separation since panels can be installed side by side like windowpanes in a submerged cross-wall in locally procured concrete or steel tanks. This unique solution represents a huge advantage over shipping conventional bulky separators since there is no limit to the flow rate that can be treated and the panels are washable and reusable. Maintenance is conducted from above ground making it safer, cleaner, quicker and of course, more affordable. Each panel requires 1 yard / 1 meter of submerged wall space. Optional polishing system available to also separate trace emulsified oil down to 0.1 PPM.

With the optional ADD Skimmer, the oil being separated by the XL Panels is mechanically and automatically collected 24/7 and drained by gravity to a separate receptacle. The skimmed oil will contain only 0.3% of water thus providing the operator with an outstanding 99.7 % concentration of pure used oil. This represents a significant advantage over other skimmers in that the operator no longer has to pay for the separated oil and the excess water to be removed from the separator by septic truck and shipped/ treated in a wastewater treatment plant. The operator can even sell or donate the pure separated oil since it is now possible to skim it free of water from the separator on site.