How to Install a Below Ground Oil Water Separator?

Freytech Inc - How to Install a Below Ground Oil Water Separator?

Table of Contents

Ever thought about How to Install a Below Ground Oil Water Separator? or how businesses handle oily wastewater and follow environmental rules? Installing a below ground oil water separator is key. This guide will show you how to install one, highlighting their role in treating oily wastewater. It’s important for meeting legal standards.

For example, separators that meet North American standards can greatly reduce environmental harm. With solutions like Freytech’s, which can reach 0.1 PPM efficiency, knowing how to install is vital.

Key Takeaways

  • Understanding the importance of oil water separators for managing oily wastewater.
  • Learn the installation steps to ensure compliance with regulations.
  • Selecting the right separator based on site-specific needs.
  • Routine maintenance tips to maximize separator efficiency.
  • Common troubleshooting methods for effective problem resolution.

Understanding Oil Water Separators

Oil water separators are key devices that separate oil, grease, and other hydrocarbons from water. They are designed to protect the environment and meet regulations. Understanding these separators is important for industries and their benefits.

What is an Oil Water Separator?

An oil water separator uses gravity and coalescence to separate oil from water. This makes it possible to treat contaminated water before it’s released. Knowing about these separators is vital for businesses to avoid fines.

Importance of Using a Separator

Using a separator is very important for industries with oily wastewater. It can save over $100,000 in fines and cut disposal costs by 50%. Regular upkeep keeps systems running efficiently and safe for the environment.

Applications of Oil Water Separators

Oil water separators are used in many fields like automotive, manufacturing, aviation, and marine. Each industry needs specific techniques for different wastewater volumes and oil levels. For instance, auto repair shops use them to meet strict discharge limits, showing their effectiveness in protecting water resources.

Freytech Inc - Are Above Ground Separators Better Than Below Ground? Are Below Ground OWS Systems Effective? What Industries Rely on Below Ground OWS? What Regulations Apply to Below Ground Separators?

Selecting the Right Separator

Choosing the right oil water separator is key for top performance and meeting environmental rules. Several factors are important, like flow rate, space needs, and upkeep. Knowing these can greatly affect both how well it works and its cost.

Factors to Consider

Flow rates are a big deal when picking a separator. Horizontal ones are great for big flows, like in oil and gas. They take up more space, often over 10 feet long.

On the other hand, vertical separators are better for tight spaces, being about 5 feet tall. They cost less upfront but might not handle as much. This is something to think about.

Benefits of Freytech Enhanced Coalescing OWS

Freytech Enhanced Coalescing Oil Water Separators are top-notch. They use advanced tech to separate oils well, including motor oil and diesel. They keep water quality high, with less than 5 PPM of light liquids.

They last a long time, up to 100 years, and come with a 25-year warranty. This means less upkeep and more reliability. You can learn more here.

Comparing Separation Efficiencies

It’s important to compare how well different separators work, mainly for places with strict rules. Freytech’s tech is great at catching small oil droplets, meeting European standards.

Looking at how different models remove pollutants and solids helps make better choices. The wrong choice can cause big problems and costs, over $10,000 an hour. So, picking the right one is critical.

Pre-Installation Procedures

Before starting the installation of a below ground oil water separator, it’s important to know the necessary steps. Each step is key to making sure the project follows local laws and meets environmental standards.

Site Assessment and Planning

Doing a thorough site assessment is vital when planning to install an oil water separator. It’s important to check the environment and space available. This helps find the best spot for the unit and makes the installation smoother.

Necessary Permits and Regulations

Getting the right permits is essential to follow local rules for installing oil water separators underground. Knowing these rules helps avoid delays and ensures the project meets all legal requirements.

Required Tools and Equipment

Having the right tools ready before starting the project makes things easier. You’ll need things like excavation gear, concrete forms, and materials for pipes and valves. Being prepared helps keep the work safe and on track.

Preparing the Installation Site

Getting the installation site ready is key for the success of below ground oil water separators. It’s important to meet excavation needs. This ensures the right size and depth for the separator. Good planning here is the base for the whole system.

Excavation Requirements

When excavating, think about the separator’s size and extra space for maintenance. The depth must fit the separator and any underground systems. Proper digging avoids problems during and after setup.

Ensuring Proper Drainage

Good drainage is essential for the separator’s long-term work. Bad drainage can cause flooding or backflow, hurting the system. So, it’s important to grade the site and add drainage lines to avoid issues.

Handling Utility Lines

When setting up the site, be careful with utility lines. Find and mark existing lines to avoid damage. Following safety rules is not just smart but also required by law. It saves money and keeps services running smoothly.

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Installation Steps

The installation of an oil water separator is a detailed process. It involves important steps to ensure it works well. Each step is designed to help it perform at its best and meet legal standards.

Positioning the Separator

Choosing the right spot for the separator is key. It should meet drainage needs and stay away from contaminants. Make sure there’s enough room for upkeep and follow local rules.

Connecting Inlet and Outlet Pipes

Connecting the pipes needs to be done carefully to avoid leaks. Pipes must be aligned right to keep wastewater flowing smoothly. Use strong materials to handle different substances and last longer.

Installing Necessary Valves

Valves are essential for controlling water and oil flow. They also help during maintenance by isolating parts of the separator. Choosing good valves is important for a reliable and efficient system.

Connecting to the Drainage System

Connecting well to the drainage system is key for an oil water separator to work right. Following local rules is important to keep everything safe and running smoothly. Knowing these rules helps avoid fines and keeps operations green.

Compliance with Local Regulations

When you connect to the drainage system, following local rules is a must. These rules cover how to install, what materials to use, and how to maintain oil water separators. Following these guidelines helps you meet legal standards and makes your system more efficient.

Importance of Proper Sloping

Proper sloping is critical for good drainage flow and water level control. A slope of at least 1mm fall for every 80mm of trench length is recommended. This slope helps prevent water from staying in one place and keeps the separator working well.

Verifying Connections

Checking connections is vital to stop leaks and keep the system running right. Make sure all connections are tight, paying extra attention to areas that might weaken over time. Regular checks and upkeep help spot problems early, keeping the system in good shape and following local rules.

Testing the System

After installing an oil water separator, it’s key to test it. This ensures it works right and meets rules. We’ll look at how to do initial tests, check for leaks, and make sure everything works well.

Conducting Initial Tests

Begin testing right after you set it up. Watch how water flows and how the system handles oily water. This helps find any problems early on.

Checking for Leaks

Looking for leaks is very important. Check all connections and the separator for any signs of leaks. Tools like dye tests can find hidden leaks fast. Fixing leaks quickly keeps the system running smoothly and follows environmental laws.

Ensuring Proper Functionality

Make sure every part of the system works right. This includes the oil content monitor and filters. Regular checks help keep the system working well and meet environmental standards.

Routine Maintenance Guidelines

Keeping an oil-water separator in good shape is key for its long-term success. By following routine maintenance, you ensure it works well, meets environmental rules, and saves money. Important tasks include cleaning the coalescing media, checking oil skimming, and doing regular inspections to catch problems early.

Cleaning and Maintaining Coalescing Media

Cleaning the coalescing media is a must to keep it working right. Taking out debris and oil helps it perform better and last longer. Using bioremediation can also cut down on sludge, showing the value of keeping the media clean.

Monitoring Oil Skimming Process

It’s important to watch the oil skimming closely to catch all the oil. High flow times can cause contaminants to spill over if not handled right. Using oil-only absorbent pads helps recycle oil and avoid rule breaks. Also, using high-pressure, low-volume sprays when washing vehicles can reduce oil in the separator.

Scheduling Regular Inspections

Regular inspections help spot problems before they get big. They check how well the separator’s parts are doing and if the system is working right. Sticking to maintenance rules helps avoid costly fixes and keeps the separator running smoothly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Fixing common problems with oil water separators is key to keeping them running well and meeting environmental rules. Knowing how to tackle these issues helps operators act fast when problems pop up. This guide will help you spot and fix separation problems, flow issues, and share maintenance tips to make your separator last longer.

Identifying Separation Problems

Keeping a close eye on your oil water separator is important. Look out for signs like too much oil or oil mixed with water. Catching these problems early can stop them from getting worse. Regular checks help spot any performance changes quickly.

Resolving Flow Issues

Flow problems can really slow down your oil water separator. Often, blockages or leaks are the cause. Make sure to check for clogs in pipes, valves, and tanks. Also, make sure pumps are installed right and inlets are clean. Keeping an eye on these things helps keep your separator running smoothly.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Good maintenance is essential for your oil water separator to work well for a long time. Regular cleaning and checking the coalescing media can really help. Scheduled checks are important for finding problems early and reducing downtime. Doing maintenance the right way keeps you in line with standards and saves time and money. For more on how to install and maintain your separator, check out Freytech.

Contact Freytech Inc. for Assistance

If you need help with oil water separators, Freytech Inc. is here for you. They offer top-notch customer support and aim to make you happy. They can help with installation, upkeep, and getting the most out of your separators.

Looking to follow local rules or improve how you handle wastewater? Their team is eager to help you.

Expert Consultation Services

Freytech Inc. is an expert in many fields, like mechanical workshops, gas stations, and industrial sites. They offer custom solutions to meet your needs. Their advice is based on your specific situation, ensuring you get the best service.

Customer Support Information

Ready to talk to Freytech? Call us at +1 (305) 372-1104. Our customer support team is ready to help with any questions about oil water separators. Contact Freytech Inc. today to start managing stormwater effectively.

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FAQ

What is an oil water separator and How to Install a Below Ground Oil Water Separator?

An oil water separator is a device that removes oil, grease, and other hydrocarbons from water. It’s key for treating oily wastewater and following environmental rules.

Why is it important to use an oil water separator?

It’s vital for protecting the environment. It manages oily wastewater, preventing pollution. It also meets discharge limits, like the North American hydrocarbon limit of 10 Parts per Million (PPM).

What industries commonly use oil water separators?

Many industries use them, like manufacturing, automotive, and stormwater management. They help protect public water treatment plants and ecosystems from pollution.

What factors should I consider when selecting an oil water separator?

Look at flow rates, environmental sensitivity, specific gravity handling, and separation efficiency. Choosing the right one ensures it works well for your needs.

What are the benefits of Freytech Enhanced Coalescing Oil Water Separators?

Freytech’s separators are very efficient at separating hydrocarbons, like motor oil and diesel. They achieve discharge levels as low as 0.1 PPM.

What pre-installation procedures should I follow?

First, assess the site thoroughly. Then, get the necessary permits and follow local regulations. Also, gather tools and equipment for the installation.

What excavation requirements are necessary for installing an oil water separator?

You need to figure out the right size and depth for the separator. Make sure there’s good drainage to avoid flooding or backflow.

How do I connect the oil water separator to the drainage system?

Follow local regulations and ensure the drainage flow is right. Check all connections to prevent leaks.

What steps should I take to test the oil water separator after installation?

First, check for leaks and ensure all parts work. Then, do regular checks to meet discharge standards.

What maintenance is needed to ensure effective operation of the oil water separator?

Clean the coalescing media and monitor the oil skimming. Also, schedule inspections to catch any problems early.

What common issues may arise with oil water separators, and how can they be troubleshooted?

Issues like separation problems and flow inefficiencies can happen. Regular maintenance and quick problem-solving ensure it keeps working well.

How can I get expert consultation on oil water separators?

Contact Freytech Inc. for expert advice on oil water separators. They provide detailed customer support. Call +1 (305) 372-1104 for help.

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.