Oily wastes are byproducts of all operating ocean-going vessels. Around the globe, these vessels generate millions of tons of oily waste annually. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, oily bilgewater is the mixture of water, oily fluids, lubricants, grease, cleaning fluids, and other wastes that accumulate in the lowest part of a vessel from a variety of sources, including engines (and other parts of the propulsion system), piping, and other mechanical and operational sources found throughout the machinery spaces of a vessel.
See what size OWS system is right for your vessel with our BOSS by H2O Sizing Calculator
According to the EPA, separator technologies have advanced in recent years, improving the effectiveness of oily bilgewater treatment. Current regulations of oily bilgewater discharge from vessels are based on Annex I of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution From Ships, developed in 1973 and modified in 1978 (MARPOL 73/78). Under MARPOL, all ships over 400 gross tons (GT) must have equipment installed onboard that limits the discharge of oil into the oceans when a ship is en route.
The proper sizing of the OWS on any vessel is critical to its performance.
How do you know what size your oily water separator should be? Here are the key factors you'll need to take into account.
Sizing your separator may be as simple as following the standard for your vessel's size. However, OWS sizing standards range from 400 to over 15,000 gross tons, and while the BOSS by H2O Sizing Calculator will give you an idea of the right OWS system and components for your vessel, contacting an expert for further assessment is still a good idea.
An engineering team designs most vessels. Your vessel's specifications should match your oily water separator's required standard flow rate. You can easily select this range from our various BOSS OWS sizes.
Space is essential on any vessel, and your boat may have limited space for your OWS. If you have a smaller vessel, consider selecting one of the more efficiently sized BOSS systems like the Mini-BOSS.
Consider the bilge that needs treating in your area. Is it primarily floating-free oil? Or is it emulsified, mixed with the water without separation? Your answer will influence how much oil-absorbing media you will consume. Each BOSS OWS has a specific amount of media. You may consume more media in an area with highly emulsified oils. This information is vital to know before selecting your OWS.
Finally, consider this question: How long will you be using your OWS at each given time? Our various separators are designed for different frequencies of use. For example, the BOSS OWS is designed for continuous, 24/7 service. The Mini-BOSS OWS is designed for shorter run times and lower volumes.
Sizing your OWS is vital to the functionality of your system and your ability to avoid steep fines. Fortunately, at H2O, we can provide a range of systems ideally suited for various vessels of varying sizes.
Our expert technicians are happy to help you assess your needs and recommend the perfect OWS.
Check out our BOSS by H2O Sizing Calculator, and then call our friendly team today for a timely response and the information you need to select the perfect OWS system or components for your vessel.
These are the BOSS separators offered by H2O.
Contact our friendly team today to select your vessel's perfect OWS system or components.