Ports and airports

Run-off water in ports and airports poses specific environmental challenges due to the pollutants present on site, such as :

• Hydrocarbons
• Oils
• Tires
• Heavy metals
• Chemicals (de-icers, detergents)
• Miscellaneous waste

Managers of these infrastructures must provide adequate equipment to treat this water before it is released into the environment. Here is an overview of the main runoff treatment equipment found in these contexts, including hydrocarbon separators and Trithon hydrodynamic separators.

What is a hydrocarbon separator?

A hydrocarbon separator is a device designed to remove hydrocarbons from run-off water at ports and airports. These hydrocarbons can come from fuel, oil or chemical leaks, common in high-traffic areas.

Operation

The hydrocarbon separator operates on the principle of the difference in density between water and hydrocarbons. Run-off water is introduced into a chamber where the lighter hydrocarbons float to the surface and are separated from the water. The treated water can then be discharged into the drainage system or a retention basin.

Obligations and regulations

In many countries, the installation of oil separators is mandatory in infrastructures such as ports and airports, due to the environmental risks associated with oil pollution. Standards may vary, but compliance with local regulations is crucial to avoid penalties and protect the environment.

The Trithon Hydrodynamic Separator is a runoff treatment device that uses centrifugal force and selective walls to separate sediment and suspended pollutants from water in ports and airports.

Operation

Run-off water enters the separator and is set in rotation, creating centrifugal force. Solid particles and suspended pollutants are pushed outwards and deposited in a settling chamber. Clean water is discharged through the center of the unit.

Benefits

This type of separator is one of the most efficient solutions on the market, capable of effectively removing a very large number of pollutants, both solid and liquid (density <0.93). It is also compact and low-maintenance, making it suitable for port and airport environments.