Removing oil from a machine coolant tank will produce benefits, such as cutting down on the amount of smoke generated from the cutting tool. Learn more.
11 Characteristics that define Oil Skimming Application
The use of an oil skimmer in the machine shop setting holds many benefits. Removing the oil from a machine coolant tank will initiate some esthetic benefits such as cutting down on the amount of smoke generated from the cutting tool coming into contact with oil laden coolant.
When a machine is shut down for the weekend, oil has a chance to come to the surface of the coolant tank. Bacteria that are living in the coolant tank use up the dissolved oxygen in the coolant mix, a process that is sped up by having a layer of oil on the surface. This allows odor causing anaerobic bacteria to thrive, giving off that familiar “rotten egg” smell.
Contrary to popular belief the common types of bacteria found in metalworking fluids do not cause dermatitis. However, if the skin is broken, bacteria that normally inhabit the skin may enter and cause infection. The presence of phosphates and carbonates that increase alkalinity in the coolant, however, can cause dermatitis. These impurities are found in the water being used in the coolant mix.
Separating the oil from the coolant will also help reduce disposal costs. The cost of disposing of oil laden coolant is more expensive than disposing of oil. In fact, in some instances, companies may be able to re-use the oil elsewhere or sell it for recycling. Having oil free coolant can also extend its usefulness and effectiveness, reducing the expense on maintenance and coolant replacement. As the research on the different types of oil skimmers begins, a person will find that there are a variety of skimmers available to them. The most common types are the belt, disk, and tube skimmers. Each type of coolant skimmer has its advantages and disadvantages.
There are also many factors that need to be considered when choosing the correct type of oil skimmer to fit the appropriate application. Factors such as water level fluctuation, water temperature, pH level, the use of rust inhibitors, the amount of oil to be skimmed, quality, and cost, must all be considered when selecting an oil skimmer.
The use of rust inhibitors, high temperatures, and variable pH levels can affect the skimmers ability to pick up oil. Most skimmer manufacturers use a variety of materials for the skimming medium such as plastic, stainless steel, or poly blends to match the solution in which they will be used.
There are a multitude of oil skimmers on the market today. One of the most important things to be considered is the quality of the unit to be purchased. Points of interest should include construction materials, motor design, and the type of warranty that is offered. Is the skimmer housing made of metal or plastic? Is the motor fan-cooled? Does the motor use needle bearings or bronze bearings? How long does the warranty last and what does it cover? Most oil skimmers will perform as advertised, but remember the old adage that “you get what you pay for”.
To learn more about oil skimmers, please contact our experts at 440-543-7400 or visit our website: www.abanaki.com
Abanaki has a new reference that can help you choose the right skimmer and the right size to ensure years of worry-free operation.
Click button below to access our “How to Successfully Implement Oil Skimmers” webinar to learn how to get the most out of your skimmer.
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There are several types of industrial oil skimmers. Choosing a unit best suited for an application will maximize oil removal while lowering maintenance and operating cost. You may define the application in terms of the following characteristics:
Operating Conditions
The performance and life of the pick-up medium, wiper blades, pulleys, etc. are affected by operating conditions. These include temperatures in and out of the liquid, the pH of the solution and the presence of solvents or other reactive chemicals.
Hazardous Materials
Applications involving flammable materials or explosive vapors require the use of explosion-proof (or air-driven) motors and controls.
Temperature/Viscosity
All oil skimmers require floating oil to be in a liquid, free flowing state. If the oil congeals or solidifies at ambient temperatures, the reservoir and/or skimmer will require heaters to maintain fluid flow.
Removal Rate
Skimmer removal rates, expressed in gph, vary with oil viscosity. Typically, manufacturers rate skimmers using SAE 30 weight motor oil at 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celsius). It’s wise to ask for test data, especially if your application involves a much different viscosity. 
Skimmed Water Content
All oil skimmers pick up some water with the oil. Suction skimmers pick up more water than other types. High water content increases oil recycling and disposal costs. Generally, the ratio of water to oil decreases with thicker films of floating oil and slower moving pick-up media.
Residual Oil
A skimmer removes oil as long as it is present. Depending on oil influx rate and the skimmer’s removal rate, residual oil in the water may be as low as a few parts per million.
Portability
In some plants mobile equipment service shops and at remediation sites, a portable oil skimmer can sometimes service multiple machines, sumps or wells.
Tank or Sump Characteristics
The location, shape and capacity of a tank or water impoundment are major factors in choosing the right skimmer. Also consider fluctuations in water level, turbulence and possible emulsions.
Size/Design
Oil and water can emulsify when subjected to turbulence and other mechanical agitation. Avoid this by having water return to the tank below the liquid surface at as low a velocity as practical.
Shape
Tanks without nooks and crannies for oil to accumulate in are best. If you have an irregular shape, put the skimmer where the largest amount of oil accumulates.
Location/Installation
Questions to ask about the physical location and characteristics of the tank and collection container: Does skimmed material need to be pumped from the skimmer to the container? Will skimmer access for periodic maintenance be a problem?
To learn more about oil skimmers, please contact our experts at 440-543-7400 or visit our website: www.abanaki.com
Abanaki has a new reference that can help you choose the right skimmer and the right size to ensure years of worry-free operation.
Click button below to access our “How to Successfully Implement Oil Skimmers” webinar to learn how to get the most out of your skimmer.
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Abanaki Corporation Oil Skimming Division
17387 Munn Road
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
Phone: (440) 543-7400
Email: skimmers@abanaki.com
Fax: (440) 543-7404
ISO 9001:2015 Certified Company
Coolant Oil Skimmer With Benefits | Abanaki
Removing oil from a machine coolant tank will produce benefits, such as cutting down on the amount of smoke generated from the cutting tool. Learn more.
11 Characteristics that define Oil Skimming Application | Abanaki
11 Characteristics that define Oil Skimming Application