Oil/water separation and recovery system

Abstract

Abstract Apparatus is provided for separating fluids of different densities, where the fluids have a substantially continuous common interface. A separating tank is provided having first and second sections, partially separated by a wall extending across the tank and having a height substantially less than the height of the tank, so as to allow communication between the sections. An intake channel directs the flow of fluids downwardly, permitting contact between the lower density fluid flowing in the channel and a layer of the lower density fluid maintained in the tank, so as to capture the major portion of the entering lower density fluid. The higher density fluid plus entrained lower density fluid is directed downwardly into the second section and assumes a tortuous path over the wall into the first section, while the lower density fluid escapes upwards into the layer of the lower density fluid. Means are provided in a lower portion of the first section for continuously removing the fluid of higher density, while means are provided in an upper portion of the tank for continuously removing the fluid of lower density. In a preferred embodiment the separating tank is mounted in a vessel below fluid level and the intake channel connected to a flexible articulated trough which is controlled to maintain a relatively constant level of fluid, until the fluid reaches the downwardly curving portion of the channel. Also, a flexible boom is provided for containing the oil or other fluid in anticipation of or during the removal and separation operation.

Inventors

• 👤 J Pavlovic

Bibliographic Details