ASTM F2709-19

Standard Test Method for Determining a Measured Nameplate Recovery Rate of Stationary Oil Skimmer Systems

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 It has been industry practice to claim the capacity of a skimmer based on the rate of the discharge pump (which are typically rated using water as a test fluid) or other arbitrary methods.  
4.2 End users need a test methodology that evaluates optimum performance data for planning and selection of equipment.  
4.3 This test method will assist producers and other stakeholders to verify and accurately report skimmer system performance.  
4.4 This test method is specifically designed to quantify two key skimmer performance values, to reduce testing costs, and to encourage industry wide performance standardization.  
4.5 This test method establishes test conditions that will result in a measured nameplate recovery rate and an indication of the combination of test parameters (oil type, viscosity, operating speed) that result in the highest average performance for the tested skimmer system.  
4.6 This test method will validate the performance of the discharge pump in the skimmer system, under conditions that are typical of a recovery operation. Specifically, this will include a modest imposed head pressure composed of static head and dynamic friction losses due to a specified length of discharge hose.  
4.7 This test method encourages performance testing using two or more oils for comparison purposes.  
4.8 Tests shall be conducted under well-documented conditions and generate repeatable results. More detailed testing and collection of skimmer performance is covered under existing standards (for example, Guide F631).  
4.9 Testing (SL Ross 2007)3 has shown that, when water is present, recovery performance in slick thicknesses ranging from 50 mm to 75 mm results in values comparable to significantly thicker slicks. This may not be the case with high-rate skimmers in viscous oil, where the rate of oil recovery exceeds the rate at which the slick will flow to the skimmer mechanism.  
4.10 For skimming systems that include various options for the discharge pump, ...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method defines a method and measurement criteria to quantify the performance of a stationary skimmer in ideal conditions in support of a device’s nameplate recovery rate (capacity). If a determination of a skimmer’s capabilities in realistic conditions (that is, advancing or waves) is required, testing should be performed according to Guide F631 or equivalent.  
1.2 This test method includes the option of testing to determine recovery efficiency.  
1.3 This test method and parameters are intended to provide ideal recovery conditions allowing the skimmer system to operate and collect oil at its maximum possible recovery rate. Given ideal conditions, inherent mechanical and physical attributes of the system become the limiting factors.  
1.4 This test method is intended to identify limitations of the skimmer system, such as performance of the skimming mechanism, the flow of oil within the skimmer and sump, the pump characteristics, and typical discharge head conditions.  
1.5 It is accepted that the measured nameplate recovery rate as determined by this test method will not likely be achievable under actual conditions of a spill. The measured nameplate recovery rate should be used in conjunction with a de-rating factor to account for such issues as changing encounter rate, changes in other recovery conditions, changes in oil properties and slick thickness, number of daylight hours, operator downtime, less than ideal control of skimmer settings, and inclement weather.  
1.6 This test method involves the use of specific test oils that may be considered hazardous materials. It is the responsibility of the user of this test method to procure and abide by necessary permits and regulations for the use and disposal of test oil.  
1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of ...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Jul-2019
• ICS: 13.020.40 - Pollution, pollution control and conservation
• Technical Committee: F20 - Hazardous Substances and Oil Spill Response
• Drafting Committee: F20.12 - Removal

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM F2709-18 - Standard Test Method for Determining a Measured Nameplate Recovery Rate of Stationary Oil Skimmer Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2019
• Refers: ASTM D2983-23 - Standard Test Method for Low-Temperature Viscosity of Automatic Transmission Fluids, Hydraulic Fluids, and Lubricants using a Rotational Viscometer
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM F631-15(2020) - Standard Guide for Collecting Skimmer Performance Data in Controlled Environments
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM D971-20 - Standard Test Method for Interfacial Tension of Insulating Liquids Against Water by the Ring Method
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM D2983-16 - Standard Test Method for Low-Temperature Viscosity of Automatic Transmission Fluids, Hydraulic Fluids, and Lubricants using a Rotational Viscometer
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2016
• Refers: ASTM D4007-11(2016) - Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Crude Oil by the Centrifuge Method (Laboratory Procedure)
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2016
• Refers: ASTM F631-15 - Standard Guide for Collecting Skimmer Performance Data in Controlled Environments
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2015
• Refers: ASTM D1298-12a - Standard Test Method for Density, Relative Density (Specific Gravity), or API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by Hydrometer Method
• Effective Date: 15-May-2012
• Refers: ASTM D971-12 - Standard Test Method for Interfacial Tension of Oil Against Water by the Ring Method
• Effective Date: 01-May-2012
• Refers: ASTM D1298-12 - Standard Test Method for Density, Relative Density (Specific Gravity), or API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by Hydrometer Method
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2012
• Refers: ASTM D4007-11 - Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Crude Oil by the Centrifuge Method (Laboratory Procedure)
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2011
• Refers: ASTM F631-99(2008) - Standard Guide for Collecting Skimmer Performance Data in Controlled Environments
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2008
• Refers: ASTM D4007-08 - Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Crude Oil by the Centrifuge Method (Laboratory Procedure)
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2008
• Refers: ASTM D4007-02(2006) - Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Crude Oil by the Centrifuge Method (Laboratory Procedure)
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2006
• Refers: ASTM D1298-99(2005) - Standard Test Method for Density, Relative Density (Specific Gravity), or API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by Hydrometer Method
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2005

Overview

ASTM F2709-19 provides a standardized test method for determining the measured nameplate recovery rate of stationary oil skimmer systems. Developed by ASTM International, this method offers a consistent approach for evaluating oil skimmer performance under ideal, controlled conditions, rather than relying on arbitrary or pump-based capacity claims. By employing precise measurement criteria, the standard ensures that manufacturers, end-users, and regulators have reliable data for equipment planning, selection, and comparison.

The practical importance of ASTM F2709-19 lies in its ability to establish a repeatable, documented process for quantifying the maximum oil recovery capacity of stationary skimmers, supporting more informed responses to oil spills and compliance with environmental safety requirements.

Key Topics

• Standardized Testing Methodology

  • Defines the procedure for measuring skimmer recovery rates under ideal laboratory conditions.
  • Specifies the use of controlled oil types, viscosities, operating speeds, and head pressures to reflect optimal system performance.

• Measured Nameplate Recovery Rate

  • Establishes a reliable, reproducible measurement for the maximum oil recovery rate achievable by a skimmer system, as opposed to estimations based on discharge pump capacity alone.
  • Recommends the use of at least two different oils to assess performance consistency.

• Recovery Efficiency

  • Offers the option to determine recovery efficiency, calculated as the percentage of oil relative to total fluid (oil plus water) recovered.
  • Sets a minimum recovery efficiency requirement for valid test results when oil is recovered from water.

• Test Conditions and Repeatability

  • Detailed requirements for tank dimensions, oil preload, temperature measurements, and free-floating operation.
  • Emphasizes the importance of repeatable and well-documented test conditions.

• Limitations and Safety

  • Recognizes that measured rates under ideal conditions may not be achievable in real-world spill scenarios, recommending the application of de-rating factors.
  • Mandates compliance with safety and environmental regulations when handling test oils.

Applications

• Oil Spill Response Planning

  • Enables organizations to select stationary oil skimmers with proven, documented recovery capabilities, improving readiness for emergency oil spill containment and cleanup.

• Equipment Procurement and Specification

  • Assists buyers and regulatory bodies in objectively comparing different skimmer systems based on standardized performance data.

• Manufacturer Product Verification

  • Provides skimmer manufacturers with a recognized method to test, validate, and report the true capacity of their equipment, reducing ambiguity and marketing discrepancies.

• Regulatory Compliance

  • Supports compliance with industry and environmental standards by ensuring skimmer systems meet established performance benchmarks.

Related Standards

• ASTM F631 - Guide for Collecting Skimmer Performance Data in Controlled Environments
• ASTM D971 - Test Method for Interfacial Tension of Oil Against Water by the Ring Method
• ASTM D1298 - Test Method for Density or API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by Hydrometer
• ASTM D2983 - Test Method for Low-Temperature Viscosity of Fluids
• ASTM D4007 - Test Method for Water and Sediment in Crude Oil by Centrifuge

Keywords: ASTM F2709-19, oil skimmer systems, measured nameplate recovery rate, oil recovery, stationary skimmers, oil spill response, recovery efficiency, skimmer performance testing, environmental compliance, ASTM standards.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: F2709 − 19
Standard Test Method for
Determining a Measured Nameplate Recovery Rate of
Stationary Oil Skimmer Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F2709; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
1.1 This test method defines a method and measurement
standard.
criteria to quantify the performance of a stationary skimmer in
1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the
ideal conditions in support of a device’s nameplate recovery
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
rate(capacity).Ifadeterminationofaskimmer’scapabilitiesin
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
realistic conditions (that is, advancing or waves) is required,
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
testing should be performed according to Guide F631 or
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
equivalent.
1.9 This international standard was developed in accor-
1.2 This test method includes the option of testing to
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
determine recovery efficiency.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.3 This test method and parameters are intended to provide
ideal recovery conditions allowing the skimmer system to mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
operate and collect oil at its maximum possible recovery rate.
Given ideal conditions, inherent mechanical and physical
2. Referenced Documents
attributes of the system become the limiting factors.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.4 Thistestmethodisintendedtoidentifylimitationsofthe
D971 Test Method for Interfacial Tension of Oil Against
skimmer system, such as performance of the skimming
Water by the Ring Method
mechanism, the flow of oil within the skimmer and sump, the
D1298 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, or API
pump characteristics, and typical discharge head conditions.
Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Prod-
1.5 It is accepted that the measured nameplate recovery rate ucts by Hydrometer Method
as determined by this test method will not likely be achievable D2983 Test Method for Low-Temperature Viscosity of Au-
under actual conditions of a spill. The measured nameplate tomaticTransmission Fluids, Hydraulic Fluids, and Lubri-
recovery rate should be used in conjunction with a de-rating cants using a Rotational Viscometer
factor to account for such issues as changing encounter rate, D4007 Test Method for Water and Sediment in Crude Oil by
changes in other recovery conditions, changes in oil properties the Centrifuge Method (Laboratory Procedure)
and slick thickness, number of daylight hours, operator F631 Guide for Collecting Skimmer Performance Data in
downtime, less than ideal control of skimmer settings, and
Controlled Environments
inclement weather.
3. Terminology
1.6 This test method involves the use of specific test oils
3.1 Definitions:
that may be considered hazardous materials. It is the respon-
3.1.1 deadheading—within a pump system, this occurs
sibility of the user of this test method to procure and abide by
when the discharge line is blocked.
necessary permits and regulations for the use and disposal of
3.1.1.1 Discussion—For example, when a valve on the
test oil.
discharge side is closed with no other flow path available.
3.1.2 fluid recovery rate—the volume of fluid recovered by
the device per unit of time (m /h).
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F20 on
Hazardous Substances and Oil Spill Response and is the direct responsibility of
Subcommittee F20.12 on Removal. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2019. Published October 2019. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 2008. Last previous edition approved in 2018 as F2709–18. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/F2709-19. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F2709 − 19
3.1.3 ideal conditions—operating conditions that result in collection of skimmer performance is covered under existing
the maximum nameplate recovery rate of a skimming system standards (for example, Guide F631).
within the limitations of the test method. 3
4.9 Testing (SL Ross 2007) has shown that, when water is
3.1.4 measured nameplate recovery rate—the maximum
present, recovery performance in slick thicknesses ranging
rate at which the skimmer system can recover and process oil
from 50 mm to 75 mm results in values comparable to
under ideal conditions.
significantly thicker slicks. This may not be the case with
high-rate skimmers in viscous oil, where the rate of oil
3.1.5 nameplate recovery rate—the maximum skimming
recovery exceeds the rate at which the slick will flow to the
capacity of a device as stated by the manufacturer.
skimmer mechanism.
3.1.6 oleophilic—oil skimmers that use collection surfaces
4.10 For skimming systems that include various options for
for recovery, for example, disc, brush, drum, belt, mop, and so
the discharge pump, the test described in this test method may
forth.
be used to measure the performance of the skimming compo-
3.1.7 oil recovery rate—the volume of oil recovered by the
3 nent of the system. Performance of the pumping component
device per unit of time (m /h).
can be measured independently using the same viscosity of oil
3.1.8 preload volume—the total volume of oil within the
and the discharge head conditions noted in this test method.
defined test area.When pertaining to this test method, typically
The measured nameplate recovery rate of any specified skim-
comprised of the volume necessary to create a 75 mm thick oil
ming component and pump combination would be the lesser of
slick in the defined test area plus any additional oil for use
the skimming component and the pump.
during startup.
5. Test Facilities
3.1.9 recovery effıciency—the ratio, expressed as a
percentage, of the volume of oil recovered to the total volume
5.1 Theminimumlateraldimensionsofthetesttankshallbe
of fluids recovered.
three times the length and width of the skimmer device, that is,
3.1.10 skimmer system—a skimmer and ancillary iftheskimmerhasadimensionof1by1.5m,thetestareashall
equipment, including power supply, hydraulic lines, discharge be 3 by 4.5 m. If the test is conducted without the presence of
pump, suction/discharge hoses, and control apparatus. water, the tank may be smaller; however, the skimmer must
float freely and be clear of the tank walls throughout the test
period. The tank depth shall accommodate the skimmer with-
4. Significance and Use
out grounding during the test.
4.1 It has been industry practice to claim the capacity of a
5.2 Test oils shall be identified by industry-accepted name
skimmer based on the rate of the discharge pump (which are
and are recommended to fall within the five categories defined
typically rated using water as a test fluid) or other arbitrary
in Guide F631.
methods.
5.3 It is recommended the skimmer system be tested in two
4.2 End users need a test methodology that evaluates
or more oil types for comparison purposes.
optimum performance data for planning and selection of
equipment.
5.4 The oils used for testing will be characterized from
samples taken at the start of a test period or when oil is
4.3 This test method will assist producers and other stake-
replenished from a new source.Atest oil log shall be generated
holders to verify and accurately report skimmer system perfor-
andwillindicatetestoiltype,samplenumber,temperature,and
mance.
test date.
4.4 This test method is specifically designed to quantify two
5.5 The following tests are to be conducted on oils: viscos-
key skimmer performance values, to reduce testing costs, and
ity (Test Method D2983), bottom solids and water (Test
to encourage industry wide performance standardization.
Method D4007), specific gravity (Test Method D1298),
4.5 This test method establishes test conditions that will
surface, and interfacial tension (Test Method D971). Viscosity
result in a measured nameplate recovery rate and an indication
may also be established using a published temperature/
of the combination of test parameters (oil type, viscosity,
viscosity chart for the test oil. Viscosity shall be reported for
operating speed) that result in the highest average performance
the temperature at which the test is performed.
for the tested skimmer system.
5.6 Manual temperature measurements of the test oil (and
4.6 This test method will validate the performance of the
water, if applicable) will be taken in or near the skimmer sump
discharge pump in the skimmer system, under conditions that
with an accuracy of 61°C. Note that if testing outdoors, solar
are typical of a recovery operation. Specifically, this will
effects may significantly increase surface oil temperature. If
include a modest imposed head pressure composed of static
steam or heat is introduced into the skimmer system as part of
head and dynamic friction losses due to a specified length of
its design, additional measurements are to be taken before such
discharge hose.
heating to gauge the properties of the oil accurately.
4.7 This test method encourages performance testing using
two or more oils for comparison purposes.
S. L. Ross Environmental Research Ltd., Skimmer Tests at the Ohmsett Facility
4.8 Tests shall be conducted under well-documented condi-
to Validate a Standard Test Protocol for Nameplate Recovery Rate, Minerals
tions and generate repeatable results. More detailed testing and Management Service, Herndon, VA, 2007 .
F2709 − 19
5.7 Ambient air test temperature shall be recorded. 6.1.8 Test oil is transferred from supply to the test area for
establishing the initial preload volume slick thickness when
5.8 Record water salinity if applicable.
water is present.
5.9 The skimmer shall be tethered but must float freely for
6.1.9 The skimming system will be equipped with a dis-
the duration of the test. charge hose 15 m long and of the manufacturer intended
diameter. The discharge hose shall be routed to a collection
5.10 Multiple tanks are required for recovered product for
tank. The end of the discharge hose opening shall be elevated
subsequent volume measurements (minimum of two). One
3.5 m above the test oil surface unless the head is simulated as
tank is necessary to receive fluid during startup/purge and a
described in 5.10.
second for the steady state recovery period. Additionally, a
means of directing flow from the startup/purge tank to a 6.2 Testing with Oil Only:
collection tank is necessary while operating. A suggested
6.2.1 The volume of oil preloaded into the test tank shall be
method is to use a manifold equipped with diversion valves
sufficient for the skimmer to remain free-floating throughout
(caution should be taken not to deadhead the discharge flow).
the t
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: F2709 − 18 F2709 − 19
Standard Test Method for
Determining a Measured Nameplate Recovery Rate of
Stationary Oil Skimmer Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F2709; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This test method defines a method and measurement criteria to quantify the performance of a stationary skimmer in ideal
conditions in support of a device’s nameplate recovery rate (capacity). If a determination of a skimmer’s capabilities in realistic
conditions (that is, advancing or waves) is required, testing should be performed according to Guide F631 or equivalent.
1.2 This test method includes the option of testing to determine recovery efficiency.
1.3 This test method and parameters are intended to provide ideal recovery conditions allowing the skimmer system to operate
and collect oil at its maximum possible recovery rate. Given ideal conditions, inherent mechanical and physical attributes of the
system become the limiting factors.
1.4 This test method is intended to identify limitations of the skimmer system, such as performance of the skimming
mechanism, the flow of oil within the skimmer and sump, the pump characteristics, and typical discharge head conditions.
1.5 It is accepted that the measured nameplate recovery rate as determined by this test method will not likely be achievable
under actual conditions of a spill. The measured nameplate recovery rate should be used in conjunction with a de-rating factor to
account for such issues as changing encounter rate, changes in other recovery conditions, changes in oil properties and slick
thickness, number of daylight hours, operator downtime, less than ideal control of skimmer settings, and inclement weather.
1.6 This test method involves the use of specific test oils that may be considered hazardous materials. It is the responsibility
of the user of this test method to procure and abide by necessary permits and regulations for the use and disposal of test oil.
1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.9 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D971 Test Method for Interfacial Tension of Oil Against Water by the Ring Method
D1298 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, or API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by
Hydrometer Method
D2983 Test Method for Low-Temperature Viscosity of Automatic Transmission Fluids, Hydraulic Fluids, and Lubricants using
a Rotational Viscometer
D4007 Test Method for Water and Sediment in Crude Oil by the Centrifuge Method (Laboratory Procedure)
F631 Guide for Collecting Skimmer Performance Data in Controlled Environments
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F20 on Hazardous Substances and Oil Spill Response and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
F20.12 on Removal.
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2018Aug. 1, 2019. Published February 2019October 2019. Originally approved in 2008. Last previous edition approved in 20152018
as F2709–15.–18. DOI: 10.1520/F2709-18.10.1520/F2709-19.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F2709 − 19
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 deadheading—within a pump system, this occurs when the discharge line is blocked.
3.1.1.1 Discussion—
For example, when a valve on the discharge side is closed with no other flow path available.
3.1.2 fluid recovery rate—the volume of fluid recovered by the device per unit of time (m /h).
3.1.3 ideal conditions—operating conditions that result in the maximum nameplate recovery rate of a skimming system within
the limitations of the test method.
3.1.4 measured nameplate recovery rate—the maximum rate at which the skimmer system can recover and process oil under
ideal conditions.
3.1.5 nameplate recovery rate—the maximum skimming capacity of a device as stated by the manufacturer.
3.1.6 oleophilic—oil skimmers that use collection surfaces for recovery, for example, disc, brush, drum, belt, mop, and so forth.
3.1.7 oil recovery rate—the volume of oil recovered by the device per unit of time (m /h).
3.1.8 preload volume—the total volume of oil within the defined test area. When pertaining to this test method, typically
comprised of the volume necessary to create a 75 mm thick oil slick in the defined test area plus any additional oil for use during
startup.
3.1.9 recovery effıciency—the ratio, expressed as a percentage, of the volume of oil recovered to the total volume of fluids
recovered.
3.1.10 skimmer system—a skimmer and ancillary equipment, including power supply, hydraulic lines, discharge pump,
suction/discharge hoses, and control apparatus.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 It has been industry practice to claim the capacity of a skimmer based on the rate of the discharge pump (which are typically
rated using water as a test fluid) or other arbitrary methods.
4.2 End users need a test methodology that evaluates optimum performance data for planning and selection of equipment.
4.3 This test method will assist producers and other stakeholders to verify and accurately report skimmer system performance.
4.4 This test method is specifically designed to quantify two key skimmer performance values, to reduce testing costs, and to
encourage industry wide performance standardization.
4.5 This test method establishes test conditions that will result in a measured nameplate recovery rate and an indication of the
combination of test parameters (oil type, viscosity, operating speed) that result in the highest average performance for the tested
skimmer system.
4.6 This test method will validate the performance of the discharge pump in the skimmer system, under conditions that are
typical of a recovery operation. Specifically, this will include a modest imposed head pressure composed of static head and
dynamic friction losses due to a specified length of discharge hose.
4.7 This test method encourages performance testing using two or more oils for comparison purposes.
4.8 Tests shall be conducted under well-documented conditions and generate repeatable results. More detailed testing and
collection of skimmer performance is covered under existing standards (for example, Guide F631).
4.9 Testing (SL Ross 2007) has shown that, when water is present, recovery performance in slick thicknesses ranging from 50
mm to 75 mm results in values comparable to significantly thicker slicks. This may not be the case with high-rate skimmers in
viscous oil, where the rate of oil recovery exceeds the rate at which the slick will flow to the skimmer mechanism.
4.10 For skimming systems that include various options for the discharge pump, the test described in this test method may be
used to measure the performance of the skimming component of the system. Performance of the pumping component can be
measured independently using the same viscosity of oil and the discharge head conditions noted in this test method. The measured
nameplate recovery rate of any specified skimming component and pump combination would be the lesser of the skimming
component and the pump.
S. L. Ross Environmental Research Ltd., Skimmer Tests at the Ohmsett Facility to Validate a Standard Test Protocol for Nameplate Recovery Rate, Minerals Management
Service, Herndon, VA, 2007 .
F2709 − 19
5. Test Facilities
5.1 The minimum lateral dimensions of the test tank shall be three times the length and width of the skimmer device, that is,
if the skimmer has a dimension of 1 by 1.5 m, the test area shall be 3 by 4.5 m. If the test is conducted without the presence of
water, the tank may be smaller; however, the skimmer must float freely and be clear of the tank walls throughout the test period.
The tank depth shall accommodate the skimmer without grounding during the test.
5.2 Test oils shall be identified by industry-accepted name and are recommended to fall within the five categories defined in
Guide F631.
5.3 It is recommended the skimmer system be tested in two or more oil types for comparison purposes.
5.4 The oils used for testing will be characterized from samples taken at the start of a test period or when oil is replenished from
a new source. A test oil log shall be generated and will indicate test oil type, sample number, temperature, and test date.
5.5 The following tests are to be conducted on oils: viscosity (Test Method D2983), bottom solids and water (Test Method
D4007), specific gravity (Test Method D1298), surface, and interfacial tension (Test Method D971). Viscosity may also be
established using a published temperature/viscosity chart for the test oil. Viscosity shall be reported for the temperature at which
the test is performed.
5.6 Manual temperature measurements of the test oil (and water, if applicable) will be taken in or near the skimmer sump with
an accuracy of 61°C. Note that if testing outdoors, solar effects may significantly increase surface oil temperature. If steam or heat
is introduced into the skimmer system as part of its design, additional measurements are to be taken before such heating to gauge
the properties of the oil accurately.
5.7 Ambient air test temperature shall be recorded.
5.8 Record water salinity if applicable.
5.9 The skimmer shall be tethered but must float freely for the duration of the test.
5.10 Multiple tanks are required for recovered product for subsequent volume measurements (minimum of two). One tank is
necessary to receive fluid during startup/purge and a second for the steady state recovery period. Additionally, a means of directing
flow from the startup/purge tank to a collection tank is necessary while operating. A suggested method is to use a manifold
equipped with diversion valves (caution should be taken not to deadhead the discharge flow).
5.11 The collection tanks shall be elevated above the test oil surface to accommodate a required static head on the skimmer
system equal to 3.5 m of fluid. Alternatively, a restriction may be imposed within the discharge hose to mimic the desired static
and dynamic head at the pump discharge at expected flow rates.
5.12 For skimmers that do not include a discharge pump, the recovery rate shall be measured as oil accumulates in the
skimmer’s sump.
5.13 When applicable, hydraulic pressure and flow measurements shall be made during the tests. Pressure and flow values shall
not exceed manufa
...