Q. What is Oil interceptors ?
Oils and Grease are usually found in stormwater runoff from catchments. They come from spillage and leakage of fuels, lubricants, Vehicle coolants etc. Because oils and grease are hydrocarbons that are lighter than water, they form films and emulsions on water and produce odorous smell. Particularly these hydrocarbons tend to stick to the particulates in water and settle with them. Henceforth theymust be trapped before discharging into stormwater system. Oil interceptors are installed to trap these oil loads coming from stormwater. In commercial locations, car parks and locations where construction works are likely. It is suggested to establish oil-trapping systems in these area.
Typical oil interceptors generally include three compartments:
(i) First inlet compartment serves majorly for the settlement of grits and for trapping of floatable debris and rubbish.
(ii) Second middle compartment is used for separating oils from runoff.