1 Theory
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - Circulars - Marine Environment Protection Committee - MEPC.1/Circular.677 – Guide to Diagnosing Contaminants in Oily Bilge Water to Maintain, Operate and Troubleshoot Bilge Water Treatment Systems – (22 July 2009) - Annex – A Guide to Diagnosing Contaminants in Oily Bilge Water to Maintain, Operate and Troubleshoot Bilge Water Treatment Systems - Annex 6 – Detecting Both Oil and Oil Emulsion: Multiple Contaminants and/or Mechanical - 1 Theory

1 Theory

 This is a complex problem which can have many causes. Indicative of the problem(s) is the presence of an emulsion in conjunction with the OWS not separating oil effectively. If the water is cloudy, there may also be soot, biological and/or iron oxide particles present. In addition to mechanical failure of the OWS, some possibilities are:

  • ▸ A pseudo-stable emulsion is able to bypass the OWS but subsequently separates over time under gravity.

    ▸ A stable emulsion is formed that the OWS cannot separate and visible oil is bypassing the unit.

    ▸ If the water is cloudy, there may also be soot, biological and/or iron oxide particles present.

Parent topic: Annex 6 – Detecting Both Oil and Oil Emulsion: Multiple Contaminants and/or Mechanical
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