Self-launching skimmers for oil spill response

• Rapid deployment: Teams can deploy the skimmer quickly without complex setup or lifting equipment, supporting efficient oil spill cleanup.
• Oleophilic materials: These attract hydrocarbons while repelling water, improving skimming efficiency and enabling recovery of oil from water with minimal dilution.
• High recovery performance: Operators can recover large volumes of oil, improving response outcomes and reducing overall remediation time.
• Flexible skimmer systems: The systems handle different types of oil skimmers within one response, adapting to changes in oil thickness, viscosity and surface layer.
• Durable construction: Corrosion-resistant design ensures reliable service in hazardous areas, offshore operations, and long-term industrial applications.

SpillPro supplies self-launching skimmers in multiple configurations to suit different spill environments, oil types and recovery requirements. Our specialists help select the right skimmer based on recovery rate targets, offload pump capacity, vessel access and containment layout.

• Multiple configurations: SpillPro supplies self-launching skimmers in a variety of designs to suit different spill environments, oil types and recovery requirements.
• Belt oil skimmers: These use continuous oleophilic belts to skim oil efficiently, and the oil is then scraped into a collection trough for transfer via hose.
• Grooved disc and drum skimmers: These rotate through the surface of the water, lifting hydrocarbons for controlled oil removal at steady litres per hour rates.

Correct handling ensures each skimmer operates at peak efficiency during an oil spill. SpillPro provides guidance on how to deploy, tow and operate skimmers safely while maintaining high recovery and protecting equipment.

Key deployment considerations:

• Correct handling: Ensuring each skimmer is handled properly allows it to operate at peak efficiency during an oil spill.
• Tow speeds: Speeds must suit the skimmer type and oil viscosity to maintain consistent skimming without oil loss or water entrainment.
• Pump selection: The offload pump capacity must match the skimmer recovery rate to prevent overflow at the hopper or sump.
• Component checks: Hoses, power supply and hydraulically driven components should be inspected before deployment to ensure continuous operation.
• Post-use maintenance: Cleaning, servicing and inspection after use protect corrosion-resistant components and extend the skimmer’s lifespan.

Self-launching skimmers are used wherever oil and water may mix during operations, transfers or incidents. SpillPro supports a wide variety of applications across Australian industries.

Common industries include:

• Ports, harbours and marine terminals
• Offshore oil and gas operations
• Mining, resources and industrial processing
• Utilities, water treatment system operators and wastewater treatment
• Defence, aviation fuel and hazardous materials facilities