The Rigid Sweeping Arm System for Defence Against Oil Spills

The Rigid Sweeping Arm System is a mechanical oil containment system developed by Koseq. The concept which took almost 30 years in the making is now a promising reality to fight against oil spills.

The mechanical containment system is a reliable method to control oil spill and does not have any kind of detrimental effect on the marine environment.

The Sweeping Arm

The sweeping arm consists of two main parts – A pontoon and a bridge piece.

There are in total 2 pontoons which provide the floating capability to the arms, while the bridge guides the spilled oil. Each pontoon also contains pump for discharging recovered oil on to the ship.

How does it Works?

The rigid sweeping arms are placed at an angle, right next to the ship. The design and dimensions of the pontoon provide the necessary stability even in the rough seas. The arms are deployed parallel to the ship as shown in the figure.

When the ship moves forward, the oil is guided between the ship’s hull and the rigid sweeping arm. The guided oil is then transferred to the oil collection chamber in the sweeping arms. To minimize the amount of water entering the oil collection chamber, the height of the chamber is hydraulically adjusted. This allows reduction of water entering the tank up to 30%.

An oil transfer pump then transfers the oil to the ship, where oil/water mixture is separated due to difference in specific weight. The water separated from the mixture is thrown overboard. Oil spill can be collected on board the vessel until the oil tanks on the ship are full.

You may also like to read-

• What is An Oil Spill Kit?
• Unique Oil Containment Method: How Air Bubbles can be used to Contain Oil Spills?

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