Oil Skimmer
Oil Skimmers are a floating device used to skim oil off the surface of water or liquid. Many skimmers use oil-attracting materials to help draw the oil to the system and facilitate a more complete cleanup. Skimmer systems operate most effectively with a reasonably thick layer of oil, and skimmer design determines the rate and efficiency of recovery.
Skimmers can be towed, self-propelled, moored in river currents, or even used from shore. Many types of skimmers are available for use, depending on the kind of oil spilled and the weather conditions.
There are three common types of skimmers:
- Weir skimmers function by allowing the oil floating on the surface of the water to flow over a weir. The height of the weir may be adjustable.
- Drum skimmers function by using a rotating element such as a drum, to which the oil adheres. The oil is wiped from the surface of the rotating drum and collected.
- Oleophilic skimmers use ropes, discs, or drums that are treated with a substance or otherwise manufactured to adhere to oil.
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5-2. When do skimmer systems operate most effectively?
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