The three-step separation principle.

The key to the Suparator® technology is the patented principle which is explained below. Unique about this principle is the three-step separation mechanism; collect -- concentrate -- separate. This enables separating even the smallest traces of oil, without a drop of water. All with a simple, passive construction.

The sketch at the left shows a channel in cross-sectional view. Through this channel flows, from left to right, an aqueous fluid (colored blue) with oil (colored red).

A number of valves are mounted across the channel, such that the major part of the flow passes underneath (under flow) and a smaller portion passes overhead (upper flow).

Click here for a video of the plexiglass model.

The principle functions as follows:

The numbers in the following explanation relate to the numbers shown in the sketch above and the photos to the right and below.

1. The upper fraction of the flow is separated from the rest.
   This fraction passes overhead and carries along all the oil, regardless the amount.
2. Oil and oil traces are collected(step 1).
   Water and oil (traces) are carried into the first compartment. Through the opening at the bottom, water only is sucked out of this compartment.
3. Oil is being concentrated(step 2).
   The oil, with still fairly high concentrations of water and chemicals, is concentrated into a floating layer of considerable thickness. Water and chemicals migrate towards the interface and reenter the water flow.
4. Oil is being separated(step 3).
   The upper fraction of the accumulated floating layer is skimmed off: pure oil is being separated.

And how it looks in an actual unit.

The photo to the left shows an 86/320 tank in use, viewed from above, right at the Suparator® construction.

The numbers refer to the explanation above. It is clearly visible how the traces of oil on the surface are carried into the Suparator® construction where they are collected, concentrated and subsequently separated.

At 4., in front of the final oil weir, there is already an accumulation of oil visible. This picture was taken shortly after the unit was taken into service.