Holding tank with pump system – an affordable alternative to oil water separators
Oil water separating systems are devices that are used to remove oil from wastewater. They are an important part of wastewater treatment systems, and they help to protect the environment by preventing oil from entering waterways and causing pollution. They work by using gravity to separate the oil from the water. The oil is heavier than water, so it will sink to the bottom of the separator. The water will either then be pumped out or flow out of the separator.
Typically, oil water separators are installed underground and plumbed from a drain in the floor, into the separator, then out into the municipal water system. Installation can be incredibly costly, as major excavation is required in digging the hole for the tank and plumbing the system underground. Because of this large burden, Massachusetts has introduced a variance in oil water separator requirements. The variance is focused on facilities that do not perform vehicle maintenance but are required to have an oil water separator. This variance allows a sump, with a pump, plumbed into an AST. The AST can then be pumped out when full.
This variance is a much more affordable alternative to a complete oil water separator installation and a great pathway to ensure compliance with local and state regulations. Businesses that do not comply with the oil water separator requirements in Massachusetts can be subject to fines. If you are a business owner in Massachusetts, you should contact a qualified tank inspector to review your requirements and discuss what system is right for your application.
In addition to protecting the environment, oil water separating systems can also help to prevent costly clogs in pipes and wastewater treatment systems. They can also help to extend the life of wastewater treatment equipment.
Here are some additional benefits of using oil water separators:
- They can help to reduce the amount of oil that enters waterways, which can help to protect fish and other aquatic life.
- They can help to prevent oil spills, which can cause environmental damage and economic loss.
- They can help to improve the quality of wastewater, which can make it easier and less expensive to treat.
If you are considering installing an oil water separator, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- The size of the separator will need to be based on the amount of wastewater that you generate.
- The type of separator that you need will depend on the type of oil that you are trying to remove.
- You will need to have the separator regularly inspected and maintained to ensure that it is working properly.
Oil water separators are an important part of wastewater treatment systems. They can help to protect the environment and prevent costly clogs and repairs. If you manage a property where vehicles are parked inside at any point, get in touch with Mass Tank today. We can help you navigate your oil water separator questions and ensure you get a solution that fits your need.
