How to Troubleshoot Common Issues with Oil Water Separators

Oil water separators are essential for removing oil and other hydrocarbons from wastewater in industrial and commercial settings. However, like any equipment, they can encounter issues that affect their performance. This guide will help you troubleshoot common problems with oil water separator , ensuring they operate efficiently and effectively.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting Steps

1. Reduced Separation Efficiency

Problem: Oil is Not Being Effectively Separated from Water

Causes:

• Overloading of the separator with excessive oil or solids.
• Incorrect flow rate or high turbulence.
• Fouling or clogging of coalescing media or plates.
• Inadequate maintenance or cleaning schedule.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Check Flow Rate: lift shaft oil  the wastewater flow rate is within the separator’s designed capacity. Adjust if necessary to reduce turbulence.
2. Inspect Coalescing Media: Clean or replace coalescing media or plates if they are fouled or clogged with solids.
3. Monitor Oil Input: Reduce the amount of oil entering the separator by improving pre-treatment processes.
4. Regular Maintenance: Establish and follow a regular maintenance and cleaning schedule to prevent buildup of contaminants.

2. Oil Carryover in Effluent

Problem: Oil is Present in the Discharged Water

Causes:

• Faulty or damaged oil skimming equipment.
• Incorrect water level settings.
• Excessive emulsified oil in the wastewater.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Inspect Skimmers: Check the oil skimming equipment for damage or improper operation. Repair or replace as needed.
2. Adjust Water Levels: Ensure the water levels are set correctly to allow proper separation and skimming of oil.
3. Address Emulsification: Use emulsion breakers or modify the pre-treatment process to reduce emulsified oil entering the separator.

3. High Levels of Solids in Separator

Problem: Accumulation of Solids is Hindering Separator Performance

Causes:

• Insufficient pre-treatment to remove solids before entering the separator.
• Lack of regular cleaning and maintenance.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Improve Pre-Treatment: Install screens, sedimentation tanks, or other pre-treatment systems to remove solids before they enter the oil water separator.
2. Increase Cleaning Frequency: Schedule more frequent cleaning of the separator to remove accumulated solids.

4. Clogged or Damaged Components

Problem: Separator Components are Clogged or Damaged, Affecting Performance

Causes:

• Accumulation of debris and solids.
• Corrosion or wear and tear over time.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Inspect Components: Regularly inspect all components, including coalescing plates, filters, and skimmers, for signs of clogging or damage.
2. Perform Repairs: Repair or replace any damaged or excessively worn parts promptly to maintain optimal performance.
3. Preventive Maintenance: Implement a preventive maintenance program to keep the separator in good working condition.

5. Incorrect Operation or Setup

Problem: The Separator is Not Set Up or Operated Correctly

Causes:

• Incorrect installation or setup.
• Operator error or lack of training.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Review Installation: Ensure the separator is installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Check for correct positioning, level, and connections.
2. Train Operators: Provide comprehensive training for operators on the correct operation and maintenance of the oil water separator.
3. Consult Manual: Refer to the manufacturer’s manual for specific setup and operational guidelines.

6. Excessive Emulsification of Oil

Problem: Oil is Forming Emulsions that are Difficult to Separate

Causes:

• High agitation or turbulence in the wastewater.
• Presence of surfactants or detergents in the wastewater.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Reduce Agitation: Minimize turbulence in the system to prevent emulsification of oil.
2. Use Emulsion Breakers: Add emulsion-breaking chemicals to the wastewater to separate oil from water more effectively.
3. Modify Processes: Identify and reduce the use of surfactants and detergents that contribute to emulsification.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting oil water separators involves identifying the root causes of performance issues and taking appropriate corrective actions. Regular maintenance, proper setup, and operator training are crucial for the efficient operation of these systems. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your oil water separator functions effectively, providing reliable and efficient wastewater treatment.

Implementing these best practices will not only enhance the performance of your oil water separator but also contribute to environmental protection and regulatory compliance.