The catalog flow ratings of our oil-waters are based upon the influent flowing by gravity with no pumps located upstream of the separator. McTighe Industries has done various pumped influent tests utilizing our oil-water separators.

The results of these tests have verified our anticipated assumption that pumped flow applications require a larger unit than those of gravity flow conditions. All pumps that McTighe has tested to date create some emulsion of the oil and water.

Low rpm, low shear pumps have been tested in conjunction with oil-water separators and by derating the flow rate capacity of the separator, the effluent quality standards of 10 mg/l and 15 mg/l free oil in the effluent can be reached using certain types of pumps. It is best to use a larger pump operating at slower speeds to limit the amount of emulsification of the oily water mixture. High speed centrifugal pumps have not been found satisfactory in feeding the oil-water separator.

When pumped flow is encountered, we recommend you contact McTighe Industries direct at: 2100 North Kimball Street, 3405 S. Westport Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57106. Phone: 605-362-3407 Fax: 605-362-3414