Oil separators

Choose the right oil separator for your business

Choosing and installing the right oil separator is a central part of your business's environmental work. The requirements from municipalities and regulatory authorities are strict regarding how oily wastewater and stormwater should be handled. To ensure adequate treatment and a system that meets all regulations, the right equipment is required, dimensioned for your specific load.

How does an oil separator work

An oil separator separates oil and gasoline from water using density differences. Since oil has a lower density than water, it rises to the surface, while heavier particles and sludge sink to the bottom in an integrated or separate sludge trap. Coalescence filters in modern separators help the smallest oil droplets to merge into larger droplets, resulting in a very high degree of purification.

Important factors before purchasing and sizing

• Flow capacity (NS size): Designations such as NS3, NS6, NS10 or NS20 indicate the nominal flow capacity of the system in liters per second. The correct size is calculated based on the maximum inflow from taps, high-pressure cleaners or rainfall.
• Location (ground or indoor): Choose a ground-mounted model for outdoor installation below ground level, or a free-standing model adapted for technical spaces and basements indoors.
• Integrated sludge trap: Check the required sludge volume based on how much particles and gravel are flushed into the system.
• Sampling well: In order for regulatory authorities to be able to check the outgoing water, a separate sampling well or sampling unit installed directly after the separator is often required.
• Alarm system: Oil separators should normally be equipped with level and oil alarms that warn when the separator needs to be emptied to prevent overfilling.

Common areas of application

Oil separators are standard in environments with regular handling of vehicles, machinery or petroleum products. They are installed primarily at:

• Automotive repair shops and tire shops
• Vehicle washes and wash pads
• Parking garages and larger parking areas
• Machine halls, logistics centers and recycling stations

Invest in an approved oil separator system from vvsmax to ensure the purification of your business, meet environmental requirements and avoid downtime.