Environmental concern over pollution of lakes, streams and waterways by petroleum and related products, and the strict EPA wastewater discharge standards, have created a need to develop technology to remove oil from water.

Current technologies and procedures for removing oil from water are expensive, time-consuming, inefficient, and typically limited in the scope of their application. Present approaches use products developed for specific applications. For oil removal from runoffs, American Petroleum Institute (API) separators are employed; for large water surfaces, various skimmers or adsorptive materials are used to cover the surface to be treated; for wellhead water removal and for tanks at port terminals, gravity separators are employed; for producing wells, re-injection is used; for small-scale applications, centrifugal separators or polymer additives are employed. No single technology currently fits all applications. Many of the current technologies require

disposal at a landfill of oil-loaded adsorptive materials, and some of the adsorptive materials themselves are subject to hazardous waste disposal guidelines. Electrostatic installations for removing water from crude oil are expensive. Gravity separation is slow. Skimmers are awkward and cumbersome. Chemical additives are problematic because the chemicals themselves may be subject to waste disposal guidelines. Cyclone or centrifuge separators are low-volume, and are typically developed for specific applications.

Differential-pressure devices are unproven for volume and efficiency.

At present, there are no high-volume, real time oil water separators able to meet current standards. The present invention provides an efficient approach to oil/water separation that can be utilized across all applications. The present invention takes advantage of the adsorptive/absorptive affinities of materials such as synthetic plastics, including polypropylene, and the like for oil, combined with a mechanical striping system to efficiently remove the adsorbed/absorbed oil from the absorptive/adsorptive material on a high-volume, real time basis.

Summary of the Invention In general, in one aspect of the invention, the water/oil mixture is introduced into a separation unit. The separation unit utilizes an array or matrix of oil adsorptive/absorptive material, such as, polypropylene fibers, to adsorb/absorb oil from the water. The adsorbed/absorbed oil is continuously and mechanically removed from the matrix and collected in a separate chamber. The cleaned water from this separation unit can be directed to a collection chamber for disposal, or to additional separation units until the desired water quality standards are met.

In one preferred embodiment, there is disclosed an apparatus for separating oil from water in an oil/water mixture comprising: a moveable brush string, a separation unit conduit and a driving element for moving the brush string into, through, and out of the separation unit conduit. The brush string is capable of adsorbing/absorbing oil from the oil/water mixture. The separation unit conduit is sized to receive the brush string, and has an inlet end passage for receiving the brush string and creating a fluid-tight seal as the brush string is received therethrough, a loading chamber proximate the entrance end for receiving the oil/water mixture and introducing the oil/water mixture onto the received brush string, a water removal chamber downstream of the loading chamber for removing water from the received brush string and discharging water received in the water removal chamber, an oil removal chamber downstream of the water removal chamber for collecting and discharging oil from the separation unit conduit having an oil extruder device operative to compressing the received brush string to extrude oil from the brush string, and an exit end for discharging the received brush string. The inlet end, loading chamber, water removal chamber, oil removal chamber and exit end are in fluid communication with each other. In one preferred embodiment, the oil removal chamber further contains a dam means for preventing water from entering said oil removal chamber from said water removal chamber. In another preferred embodiment, the brush string comprises a continuous loop cable means holding a plurality of brush assemblies in spaced relationship along the length of the cable means. Each of the brush assemblies preferably comprise a closely packed array of a plurality of oil-adsorptive/absorptive fibers. The fibers are preferably oriented substantially perpendicular to the

cable means. In a preferred embodiment the fibers are fabricated from a synthetic plastic material, such as, polypropylene. The brush string can also comprise a continuous loop cable means holding a plurality of oil- adsorptive/absorptive fibers. In a preferred embodiment, the oil extruder device comprises a passage having an inlet end configured to restrict the inlet opening of the passage sufficient to compress the brush string as the brush string moves therethrough. The passage has one or more nodes proximate the inlet end of the passage to restrict the inlet opening of the passage. In another embodiment, the passage has one or more oil removal rings proximate the inlet end of the passage, or employs spiral ribbing, other internal protrusions, or extrusion roller members to restrict the inlet opening of the passage. In preferred embodiments, the passage can be substantially cylindrical or conical. The driving element preferably comprises one or more flywheel means for engaging the brush string, and one or more hydraulic motors for engaging the flywheel means. The separator unit conduit can further comprise a pressurizing passage between the loading chamber and the water removal chamber for receiving the brush string and creating a fluid-tight seal as the brush string is received therethrough. In another embodiment, the water removal chamber contains one or more air jets for directing an air stream towards the brush string sufficient to drive water off of the brush string. Additionally, the separation unit conduit can employ heating and/or cooling means for heating and/or cooling the unit or portions thereof.

In another preferred embodiment, there is disclosed an apparatus for separating oil from water in an oil/water mixture comprising; an oil/water mixture conduit sized to receive the oil/water mixture; a moveable oil affinity layer contacting the oil/water

mixture in the oil/water mixture conduit, wherein the oil affinity layer is capable of adsorbing/absorbing oil from the oil/water mixture; a water removal chamber in fluid communication with the oil/water mixture conduit for removing water from the oil affinity layer after the oil affinity layer has contacted the oil/water mixture; an oil removal chamber in fluid communication with the water removal chamber for extruding oil from the oil affinity layer after water has been removed from the oil affinity layer; and driving element for moving the oil affinity layer into, through and out of the oil/water mixture conduit, water removal chamber and oil removal chamber.

In a preferred embodiment, the moveable oil affinity layer is a moveable brush string having a continuous loop cable means holding a plurality of brush assemblies in spaced relationship along the length of the cable means. In this embodiment, the oil/water mixture conduit has an inlet end passage for receiving the brush string and creating a fluid-tight seal as the brush string is received therethrough, a loading chamber proximate the entrance end for receiving the oil/water mixture and introducing the oil/water mixture onto the received brush string. In this embodiment, the water removal chamber is located downstream of the loading chamber for removing water the said received brush string and discharging water received in the water removal chamber. In this embodiment, the oil removal chamber is located downstream of the water removal chamber for collecting and discharging oil from the oil/water mixture conduit and contains an oil extruder device capable of compressing the received brush string to extrude oil from the brush string, and an exit end for discharging the received brush string. In this embodiment, the inlet end, loading chamber, water removal chamber, oil removal

chamber and exit end are in fluid communication with each other.

In another preferred embodiment, the moveable oil affinity layer is a moveable oil affinity layer belt assembly loop having a top half, a bottom half, a first end rotatably mounted about a first axis and a second end rotatably mounted about a second axis. In this embodiment, top half of the oil affinity layer loop is capable of receiving an oil/water mixture in the oil/water mixture channel conduit from an inlet. In this embodiment, the water removal chamber includes a perforated water extrusion plate mounted within in frictional contact with the oil affinity layer loop sufficient to extrude water from the oil affinity layer loop. The oil removal chamber of this embodiment includes a perforated oil extrusion plate mounted within in frictional contact with the oil affinity layer loop sufficient to extrude oil from said oil affinity layer loop. In this embodiment, the oil affinity layer loop preferentially comprises a substantially planar matrix of closely packed fibers, or a plurality of rollers rotatably mounted substantially perpendicular to the direction of rotation of the loop.

In still another preferred embodiment, the moveable oil affinity layer comprises one or more oil affinity rollers having a first and second end rotatably mounted about an axis on a flywheel driven by the driving element. In this embodiment, the water removal chamber comprises a water removal zone where the rollers are not in contact with the oil/water mixture and the water is removed from the roller by gravity, and/or by air pressure created by one or more air jets mounted within the water removal zone. In another embodiment, the water removal chamber comprises a first zone of compression where the rollers are not in contact with the oil/water

mixture and the water is removed from the roller by compressing the roller against a camming surface. The oil removal chamber in this embodiment comprises a second zone of compression where the rollers are not in contact with the oil/water mixture and the oil is removed from the roller by compressing the roller against a camming surface. In another embodiment, the oil removal chamber comprises a centrifuge means for rotating the rollers about their respective axes when the rollers are in the oil removal chamber sufficient to extrude oil from the rollers.

In yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the moveable oil affinity layer is a rotatable oil affinity layer roller assembly loop capable of moving in a specified direction having a first end rotatably mounted about a first spool axis and a second end rotatably mounted about a second spool axis, and one or more oil affinity rollers having a first and second end rotatably mounted about a roller axis. In this embodiment the rollers are capable of adsorbing/absorbing oil from the oil/water mixture. The roller axis is preferentially rotatably mounted to the roller assembly loop and aligned substantially perpendicular to the direction of rotation of the roller assembly loop. In this embodiment, the water removal chamber comprises a water removal zone where the rollers are not in contact with the oil/water mixture and the water is removed from the roller by gravity, and/or by air pressure created by one or more air jets mounted within the water removal zone. In another embodiment, the water removal chamber comprises a first zone of compression where the rollers are not in contact with the oil/water mixture and the water is removed from the roller by compressing the roller against a camming surface. The oil removal chamber in this embodiment comprises a second zone of

compression where the rollers are not in contact with the oil/water mixture and the oil is removed from the roller by compressing the roller against a camming surface. In another embodiment, the oil removal chamber comprises a centrifuge means for rotating the rollers about their respective axes when the rollers are in the oil removal chamber sufficient to extrude oil from the rollers.

In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the moveable oil affinity layer comprises a rotatable oil affinity layer roller assembly loop capable of moving in a specified direction having a first end rotatably mounted about a first spool axis and a second end rotatably mounted about a second spool axis, one or more oil affinity rollers having a first and second end rotatably mounted about a roller axis. In this embodiment, the oil removal chamber comprises an oil removal sleeve capable of receiving the roller in coaxial relationship. The sleeve is affixed to each roller axis, and the roller axis is rotatably mounted to the roller assembly loop and preferentially aligned substantially perpendicular to the direction of rotation of the roller assembly loop. In this embodiment, the roller assembly loop has an oil removal zone proximate the channel conduit for extruding oil from the rollers after water has been removed from the rollers. In a preferred embodiment, the roller assembly has a guide means or rail mechanism for separating the sleeve from the roller when the roller is in contact with the oil/water mixture, and for achieving coaxial relationship between the sleeve and the roller when the roller is in the oil removal zone.

In this embodiment, the oil removal zone has a centrifuge means for rotating the rollers about their respective roller axis when the roller is in the sleeve sufficient to extrude oil from the roller. Also, the oil removal sleeve preferably contains a collection means for

collecting the extruded oil from the oil removal sleeve. In this embodiment, the water removal chamber comprises a water removal zone where the rollers are not in contact with the oil/water mixture and the water is removed from the roller by gravity, and/or by air pressure created by one or more air jets mounted within the water removal zone. In another embodiment, the water removal chamber comprises a first zone of compression where the rollers are not in contact with the oil/water mixture and the water is removed from the roller by compressing the roller against a camming surface. In another preferred embodiment, the entrance of each oil removal sleeve contains a sleeve dam to constrict the opening sufficient to extrude oil from each roller as each roller is moved into the sleeve.

In another preferred embodiment, there is disclosed an apparatus for separating oil from water in an oil/water mixture comprising: an oil/water mixture channel conduit; a moveable oil affinity layer belt assembly loop having a top half, a bottom half, a first end rotatably mounted about a first axis and a second end rotatably mounted about a second axis, wherein the oil affinity layer loop is capable of adsorbing/absorbing oil from an oil/water mixture, the top half of the oil affinity layer loop is capable of receiving an oil/water mixture in the oil/water mixture channel conduit from an inlet; a water removal chamber proximate the first end of the oil affinity layer loop for removing water from the oil affinity layer loop after the oil/water mixture has contacted the oil affinity layer loop; an oil removal chamber proximate the second end of the oil affinity layer loop for extruding oil from the oil affinity layer loop after water has been removed from the oil affinity layer; and driving element for rotating the oil affinity layer loop within the oil/water mixture channel conduit

about the first and second axes into, through and out of, the water removal chamber and oil removal chamber.

In still another preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is disclosed an apparatus for separating oil from water in an oil/water mixture comprising: an oil/water mixture channel conduit for receiving an oil/water mixture from an inlet; one or more oil affinity rollers having a first and second end rotatably mounted about an axis on a flywheel, wherein the rollers are capable of adsorbing/absorbing oil from the oil/water mixture; a water zone chamber proximate the channel conduit for removing water from the rollers after the rollers have contacted the oil/water mixture; an oil removal chamber proximate the channel conduit for extruding oil from the rollers after water has been removed from the rollers; and driving element for rotating the flywheel such that each of the rollers passes into, through and out of, the oil/water mixture, water removal zone and oil removal chamber. Another preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises an apparatus for separating oil from water in an oil/water mixture having: an oil/water mixture channel conduit for receiving an oil/water mixture from an inlet; a rotatable oil affinity layer roller assembly loop capable of moving in a specified direction having a first end rotatably mounted about a first spool axis and a second end rotatably mounted about a second spool axis, and one or more oil affinity rollers having a first and second end rotatably mounted about a roller axis, wherein the rollers are capable of adsorbing/absorbing oil from the oil/water mixture and the roller axis is rotatably mounted to the roller assembly loop and preferentially aligned substantially perpendicular to the direction of rotation of the roller assembly loop; a water removal zone proximate the

channel conduit for removing water from the rollers after the rollers have contacted the oil/water mixture; an oil removal chamber proximate the channel conduit for extruding oil from the rollers after water has been removed from the rollers; and a driving element for rotating the roller assembly loop such that each of the rollers passes into, through and out of, the oil/water mixture, water removal zone and oil removal chamber.

In another preferred embodiment of the present invention there is described an apparatus for separating oil from water in an oil/water mixture comprising: an oil/water mixture channel conduit for receiving an oil/water mixture from an inlet; a rotatable oil affinity layer roller assembly loop capable of moving in a specified direction having a first end rotatably mounted about a first spool axis and a second end rotatably mounted about a second spool axis, one or more oil affinity rollers having a first and second end rotatably mounted about a roller axis, and an oil removal sleeve capable of receiving the roller in coaxial relationship affixed to each said roller axis, wherein the rollers are capable of adsorbing/absorbing oil from the oil/water mixture and the roller axis is rotatably mounted to said roller assembly loop and aligned substantially perpendicular to the direction of rotation of the roller assembly loop; a water removal zone proximate the channel conduit for removing water from the rollers after the rollers have contacted the oil/water mixture; an oil removal zone proximate the channel conduit for extruding oil from the rollers after water has been removed from the rollers; a driving element for rotating the roller assembly loop such that each roller passes into, through and out of, the oil/water mixture, water removal zone and oil removal zone; a guide or tracking means for separating the sleeve from the roller when the roller is

in contact with the oil/water mixture, and for achieving coaxial relationship between the sleeve and the roller when the roller is in the oil removal zone; a centrifuge means for rotating the rollers about their respective roller axis when the roller is in the sleeve sufficient to extrude oil from the roller; and a collection means for collecting the extruded oil from the oil removal sleeve. In another embodiment, the entrance of the oil removal sleeve contains a sleeve dam for extruding oil as the roller is moved into the sleeve.

In another preferred embodiment of the present invention there is also described a method for removing or separating oil from an oil/water mixture. In this embodiment, an oil/water mixture is introduced into an oil/water mixture conduit capable of receiving the oil/water mixture. The oil/water mixture in the oil/water mixture conduit is then contacted by a moveable oil affinity layer that adsorbs/absorbs oil from the oil/water mixture. The moveable oil affinity layer is then urged into a water removal chamber in fluid communication with the oil/water mixture conduit that removes water from the oil affinity layer after the oil affinity layer has contacted the oil/water mixture. The moveable oil affinity layer is further urged from the water removal chamber into an oil removal chamber in fluid communication with the water removal chamber where oil is then extruded from the oil affinity layer using extrusion means as described herein. The extruded oil is collected and discharged from said oil removal chamber. The water is collected and discharged from said water removal chamber.

In another preferred method, the moveable oil affinity layer is a moveable brush string having a continuous loop cable means holding a plurality of brush assemblies in spaced relationship along the length of the

cable means. The oil/water mixture conduit has an inlet end passage for receiving the brush string and creating a fluid-tight seal as the brush string is received therethrough, and a loading chamber proximate the entrance end for receiving the oil/water mixture and introducing the oil/water mixture onto the received brush string. The water removal chamber is located downstream of the loading chamber for removing water from the received brush string and discharging water received in the water removal chamber. The oil removal chamber is located downstream of the water removal chamber for collecting and discharging oil from the oil/water mixture conduit and contains an oil extruder device capable of compressing the received brush string to extrude oil from the brush string and an exit end for discharging the received brush string. The inlet end, loading chamber, water removal chamber, oil removal chamber and exit end are in fluid communication with each other.

In another preferred method, the moveable oil affinity layer is a moveable oil affinity layer belt assembly loop having a top half, a bottom half, a first end rotatably mounted about a first axis and a second end rotatably mounted about a second axis. The top half of the oil affinity layer loop is capable of receiving an oil/water mixture in the oil/water mixture channel conduit from an inlet. The water removal chamber includes a perforated water extrusion plate mounted within the water removal chamber in frictional contact with the oil affinity layer loop sufficient to extrude water from the oil affinity layer loop. The oil removal chamber includes a perforated oil extrusion plate mounted within the oil removal chamber in frictional contact with the oil affinity layer loop sufficient to extrude oil from the oil affinity layer loop.

In yet another preferred methodology of the present invention, the moveable oil affinity layer comprises one or more oil affinity rollers having a first and second end rotatably mounted about an axis on a flywheel driven by a driving element.

In still another method embodiment, the moveable oil affinity layer is a rotatable oil affinity layer roller assembly loop capable of moving in a specified direction having a first end rotatably mounted about a first spool axis and a second end rotatably mounted about a second spool axis, and one or more oil affinity rollers having a first and second end rotatably mounted about a roller axis. The rollers are of adsorbing/absorbing oil from the oil/water mixture. The roller axis is rotatably mounted to the roller assembly loop and aligned substantially perpendicular to the direction of rotation of the roller assembly loop.

In another preferred embodiment of the present method, the moveable oil affinity layer comprises a rotatable oil affinity layer roller assembly loop capable of moving in a specified direction having a first end rotatably mounted about a first spool axis and a second end rotatably mounted about a second spool axis, one or more oil affinity rollers having a first and second end rotatably mounted about a roller axis. The oil removal chamber comprises an oil removal sleeve capable of receiving the roller in coaxial relationship affixed to each roller axis. Each roller axis is rotatably mounted to the roller assembly loop and aligned substantially perpendicular to the direction of rotation of the roller assembly loop. The roller assembly loop has an oil removal zone proximate the channel conduit for extruding oil from the rollers after water has been removed from the rollers. The roller assembly has a guide means for separating the sleeve from the roller when the roller is

in contact with the oil/water mixture, and for achieving coaxial relationship between the sleeve and the roller when the roller is in the oil removal zone. The oil removal zone has a centrifuge means for rotating the rollers about their respective axes when the rollers are in the sleeve sufficient to extrude oil from the rollers. The oil removal sleeve contains a collection means for collecting the extruded oil from the oil removal sleeve. Brief Description of the Drawings Embodiments of the invention are described below, with reference to the following drawings.

FIGURE 1 is a top plan view of a preferred embodiment of the oil/water separator in accordance with the present invention. FIGURE 2 is a side plan view of a preferred embodiment of the oil/water separator in accordance with the present invention.

FIGURE 2A is an enlarged detail bottom plan view of a moveable brush assembly and drive flywheel in accordance with the present invention as seen along the line 2A-2A in FIGURE 2.

FIGURE 2B is a partial cross-sectional view of a brush assembly and flywheel in accordance with the present invention as seen along the line 2B-2B in FIGURE 2A.

FIGURE 3 is a side cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of the oil/water separator as seen along the line 3-3 in FIGURE 1.

FIGURE 3A is another preferred embodiment of the oil/water separator as seen in FIGURE 3.

FIGURE 3B is an enlarged detailed section of an oil extruder device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention taken from FIGURE 3.

FIGURE 4 is a perspective view of a brush unit utilized in a preferred embodiment of the oil/water separator in accordance with the present invention.

FIGURE 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a brush unit as seen along the line 5-5 in FIGURE 4.

FIGURE 5A is an enlarged detailed section of a brush unit taken from FIGURE 5.

FIGURE 5B is a partial cross-sectional view of a brush unit as seen along the line 5B-5B in FIGURE 5. FIGURE 5C is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of another preferred brush unit according to the present invention.

FIGURE 6 is a perspective view in partial section of an oil removal ring oil extruder unit utilized in a preferred embodiment of the oil/water separator in accordance with the present invention.

FIGURE 7 is an end view of another embodiment of an oil extruder unit utilized in a preferred embodiment of the oil/water separator in accordance with the present invention.

FIGURE 8 is a side cross-sectional view of an oil extruder unit as seen along the line 8-8 of FIGURE 7.

FIGURE 8A is a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an oil extruder unit utilized in a preferred embodiment of the oil/water separator in accordance with the present invention.

FIGURE 8B is a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an oil extruder unit utilized in a preferred embodiment of the oil/water separator in accordance with the present invention.

FIGURE 9 is a top plan view of another preferred embodiment of the oil/water separator in accordance with the present invention.

FIGURE 10 is a schematic view of another preferred embodiment showing a multiple stage oil/water separation unit in accordance with the present invention.

FIGURE 11 is a partial perspective view of another preferred embodiment showing a conveyor belt oil/water separation unit in accordance with the present invention.

FIGURE 12 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a water removal plate assembly used in a conveyor belt oil/water separation unit as seen along line 12-12 of FIGURE 11.

FIGURE 13 is a partial cross-sectional view showing an oil removal plate assembly used in a conveyor belt oil/water separation unit as seen along line 13-13 of FIGURE 11. FIGURE 14 is a perspective view of another preferred embodiment showing a centrifugal oil/water separation unit in accordance with the present invention.

FIGURE 14A is a cross-sectional view of a chamber used in a centrifugal oil/water separation unit as seen along line 14A-14A of FIGURE 14.

FIGURE 14B is a perspective view of another preferred embodiment showing an oil/water separation unit in accordance with the present invention.

FIGURE 14C is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the separation unit as seen along line 14C-14C of FIGURE 14B.

FIGURE 15 is a perspective view of another preferred embodiment showing a conveyor belt and centrifugal oil/water separation unit in accordance with the present invention.

FIGURE 15A is a cross-sectional view of a chamber used in a conveyor belt and centrifugal oil/water separation unit as seen along line 15A-15A of FIGURE 15.

FIGURE 16 is a perspective view of another preferred embodiment showing another conveyor belt and

centrifugal oil/water separation unit in accordance with the present invention.

FIGURE 17 is a cross-sectional view showing centrifuge chambers as seen along line 17-17 of FIGURE 16.

FIGURE 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a centrifuge chamber as seen along line 18-18 of FIGURE 17. FIGURE 19 is a schematic flow diagram illustrating the use of multiple oil/water separators in accordance with the present invention.

Description of the Preferred Embodiments FIGURES 1 and 2 show a preferred embodiment of the oil water separator 102 of the present invention. In this embodiment, two separation stages are employed in axial relationship within an outer housing 102, as depicted by a first stage separation unit conduit 106 and a second stage separation unit conduit 108. The stages can be constructed from PVC pipe products, or other suitable materials, such as stainless steel, or could manufactured using molding or extrusion techniques. As discussed below, a single stage 106 can be used alone, in series with other stages such as 108, as described in conjunction with FIGURES l, 2, 9 and 10, or in parallel with other single or multi-stage separation units, to treat a given oil/water mixture to the desired degree of oil separation.

Referring to FIGURES 1, 2, 3, 3A, and 3B the first and second stage separation units 106, 108 are connected in fluid communication and contain an internal passage extending through the inlet seal entry lip 132 of the first stage 106 to and through the oil extruder exit ramp 184 of the second stage 108. A continuous loop moveable brush string 113 having a cable means 112 holding a plurality of brush assemblies 110 (not all shown) spaced along the entire length of the cable means 112 extends

through the internal passageway of the first and second stages 106, 108.

FIGURES 2A, 2B, 4, 5, 5A, 5B also show that each brush assembly contains a closely packed array of a plurality of oil-adsorptive/absorptive fibers or fill materials 200 preferably aligned or oriented substantially perpendicular to the cable 112. In a preferred embodiment, a brush assembly 110 has an array of closely packed fibers 200 of substantially equal length or height that are fixably attached or bound at their base to a length of a fiber retainer or binding channel 202, such as a "U"-shaped elongated crimp. A binding wire (not shown) can be inserted over the fibers and down into the formed crimp channel 202 to hold the fibers in the channel, and to also assist in the density of the brush. In a preferred embodiment, a continuous length of the fiber retainer 202 containing the fibers 200 was spirally wound in a tight "coil spring" around the entire length of a core member 188 and attached thereto (although a looser, more open wound coil could also be employed) . The length of the fibers 200 were then preferably bevelled at each end of the brush assembly to give each end of the brush assembly a substantially conical shape. In a preferred embodiment, the brush assembly 110 is approximately nine inches long and five inches in diameter, the core member one inch in diameter, and the fibers 200 are constructed from a solid, substantially cylindrical polypropylene material having an outer diameter of between .013" and .015". Polypropylene is a versatile filament often found in a wide range of brushes and is available in many shapes. Polypropylene fibers offer low-cost and high performance for a wide range of applications. These polypropylene fibers typically have the following characteristics when employed in a brush configuration: low specific gravity

(.90-.91 g/cm ³ ) ; diameter range .006"-.060"; tensile strength of 40M-80M PSI; tensile elongation of 30%-40%; melting point of 330-340 °F; heat distortion temperature of 225 °F; bend recovery 70-80% for cylindrical and triangular shapes; dry stiffness modulus of 850M PSI; wet stiffness modulus of 825M PSI; bulk density of 35-40 in /lb. Polypropylene also has good resistance to acids petroleum distillates, benzene aromatic hydrocarbons, acetones, ketones, ethylacetate esters, and fairly good resistance to trichloroethylene hydrocarbons and hot water. FIGURE 5C shows an alternative preferred embodiment of a brush assembly 110 wherein fibers 200 are held in place within a series of separate concentric brush retainer units 203 mounted on the core 188. In this embodiment, the fiber 200 in each retainer 203 can be of a desired length, diameter, and material to create different brush configurations.

Other suitable brush configurations and constructions are available from, for example, Felton Brush Company, Manchester, New Hampshire. Additional brush fiber compositions can be employed that have an affinity for petrochemical or other oil products. Additional brush fiber lengths and diameters can be employed to achieve the desired degree of stiffness/density and absorptivity/adsorptivity. The fibers can also be configured to provide varying degrees of flaggability. The fibers can also be configured with varying crimp configurations where the fibers have, e . g. , between 2 1/2 to 7 crimps(waves/in) . The fibers can be of a solid or hollow construction, and can be substantially cylindrical, oval, rectangular or triangular in cross-section. The fibers can also be perforated and can be constructed out of materials other than polypropylene, such as, polyolefins, nylons, polyesters, polystyrenes (including polystyrene polymer

coupled with its cousin styrene acrylonitrile copolymer) , polyvinylchlorides, polyethylenes and other suitable families of materials having an affinity for oil substances or other natural or synthetic fiber materials and polymers available from, e .g. , Polymers, Inc., Middlebury, Vermont. The fibers could also be constructed out of desirable materials that are coated with substances having an affinity for oil, and could be coated with materials for high temperature applications. The fiber matrix can also be shaped to create flat, bevelled, offset, end notched, slotted or stepped configurations, and other brush shapes can be employed. Additionally, the brush crimp channel can be mounted with suitable mounting means to a core member in a continuous spiral as noted above, in concentric rings as noted above, or in other configurations, such as in longitudinal lengths arranged in parallel spaced relation on the surface of the core member, or in a helical configuration. Also, the fibers can be mounted directly to the cable means in a twisted-in-wire configuration. Many brush configurations are possible using the above characteristics or combinations thereof, and the embodiments disclosed herein are preferred examples.

Each brush assembly 110 is secured in place along the length of the cable 112 by means of a suitable brush assembly retention device 186. In a preferred embodiment, the core member 188 is a hollow stainless steel member outfitted with internal threads at each end capable of receiving a threaded brush assembly hub 204. The hub 204 is also preferably stainless steel, and is configured to allow the brush assembly 110 to be fixably attached to the cable 112, by, for example, threading the cable 112 through a longitudinally oriented passageway 205 in the hub 204, and applying hub retainer fittings 206, 208, such as "Nico" or "button" fittings, to retain

the hub 204 to the cable 112. In one preferred embodiment, the cable 112 consists of a continuous length of stainless steel cable upon which the brush assembles 110 are threaded, spaced apart and secured to the cable. As depicted in FIGURE 5, in another preferred embodiment, the cable 112 consists of a series of short lengths of cable of sufficient length to extend between the right internal hub retainer fitting 208a of one brush assembly 110 to the left internal hub retainer fitting 208b of the next brush assembly to the right 110. However, other suitable means for retaining the brush assemblies on the cable 112 could be employed, such as, by employing a stainless steel chain mounted to the outside of each hub 204 so that each brush assembly 110 is connected together in chain-link fashion, and the chain serves as the cable. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the brush string 113 comprises a continuous length of an array of closely packed fibers 200 that are fixably attached at their base to the cable 112 either directly, or via other suitable attachment means.

Referring to FIGURES 1, 2, 2A and 2B, the brush string 113, is driven through the first and second stage separation unit conduits 106, 108 in the direction indicated by the arrows by a first drive flywheel 150 and a second drive flywheel 154, powered by a first motor 152 and a second motor 156, respectively. In an alternative preferred embodiment, only the lead drive flywheel 154 is motorized to pull the brush string 113 through the first and second stage separation unit conduits 106, 108. In a preferred embodiment, the motors, 152 and 156 are hydraulic, and are housed in separate motor housing assemblies 182. The hydraulic motors can share a hydraulic system as shown in conjunction with motor hydraulic lines 176, 178, and 180, or could utilize separate hydraulic systems (not shown) . The hydraulic

motors are preferred due to the torque requirements placed on the motors by the brush string 113. Exemplary hydraulic or hydrostatic drive motors are available from Fairfield Mfg. Co., Inc., model no. S6C Single Planetary "Torque Hub" Final Drives. Additional flywheel/motor units could be added as may be necessary to drive the brush string 113 through the desired number of separation stages or separation stages layouts. Also, each flywheel could be suitably modified to run more than one brush string, or more than one flywheel unit could be mounted on a single motor drive.

In a preferred embodiment, the separation units 106, 108, the brush string 113, and the flywheels 150 and 154 are maintained within a sealed chamber 174 to contain any residual oil/water drippings or hydrocarbon vapors. The chamber 174 can be suitably equipped with an air filtration system (not shown) to remove any hydrocarbon vapors to comply with any applicable air quality standards. The chamber 174 can also be equipped with a discharge port (not shown) to allow for removal of any residual oil/water drippings. In a preferred embodiment, the separator unit 102 is of a portable size capable of being transported on a trailer, truck bed or other suitable transportation means. In a preferred embodiment, each flywheel 150, 154 is equipped with a plurality of cable guide assembly units 151 spaced equally in radial fashion on the underside of each flywheel and attached thereto with bolts 155 or other suitable attachment means. Each cable guide unit 151 contains a groove 153 located on the outer edge of the cable guide unit 151 to frictionally engage the cable 112. The groove 153 is located on the cable guide unit 151 such that distance R is preferentially greater than or equal to the radius R' of the brush assembly 110. Additionally, the equidistant radial

spacing of each cable guide unit 151 is sufficient to preferentially allow only one brush assembly 110 to fit between adjacent cable guide units 151.

Referring again to FIGURES 1, 2, 3 and 3A, the oil/water mixture to be treated is moved via pump means (not shown) from a source of the oil/water mixture in a conduit and introduced under pressure into an inlet 114 located downstream of the inlet seal 130 in the first stage 106. An exemplary pump means is an air operated double diaphragm pump sold by Wilden, model M8 metal. As the brush assemblies 110 enter the first stage 106, they pass through an inlet seal entry lip 132. The lip 132 is designed to gradually reduce its inner diameter from approximately the outer diameter of the brush assembly 110 to a pre-determined inner diameter sufficient to compress the brush assemblies 110 in the inlet seal 130 to create a fluid-tight seal and maintain fluid pressure and flow direction. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the brush assemblies 110 are approximately 5-5 1/2" diameter by 9" length, and are spaced approximately 2" apart on the cable means 112, and the inlet seal 130 length is sufficient to receive approximately one to one and a half brush assemblies 110. Thus, as the brush assemblies 110 proceed into the inlet seal 130, the brush assemblies 110 are compressed to a sufficient degree to create a fluid barrier in the inlet seal 130.

After proceeding through the inlet seal 130 (see FIGURE 3) , the brush assemblies 110 are then introduced into an oil/water introduction chamber or loading chamber 134. The oil/water sample introduction chamber 134 has an inner diameter larger than the inlet seal 130, and preferentially slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the brush assemblies 110 to allow some, but not complete relaxation of the brush assemblies 110 thereby

preventing flow velocity from flattening the brush fibers. The oil/water mixture from the inlet 114 contacts the brush assemblies 110 in the oil/water sample introduction chamber 134. The oil substance in the mixture then adsorbs/absorbs onto the brush assemblies 110 to load each brush assembly with the oil substance. In this preferred embodiment, the inner diameter of the oil/water introduction chamber 134 was approximately 4", and the length was approximately 18" in length, but these dimensions could be varied to create different loading regimes depending on factors such as the sample introduction flow rate and the speed of rotation of the brush string 113.

As the brush assemblies 110 proceed through the sample introduction chamber 134, they pass by a bypass inlet 118, through a splash chamber inlet seal lip 136 and into a splash chamber inlet seal 138 having a reduced inner diameter similar to that of the inlet seal 130 such that the brush assemblies 110 are compressed sufficient to create a fluid barrier. The lip 136 is preferentially employed to gradually reduce the inner diameter between the sample introduction chamber 134 and the splash chamber seal 138. Due to the fluid barrier created in the splash chamber seal 138, excess input oil/water mixture in the sample introduction chamber 134 is directed through the bypass line inlet 118 through a bypass line 116 to an inlet 120 in the second stage 108.

As the brush assemblies 110 proceed through the splash chamber seal 138, they enter the splash chamber or water removal chamber 140. In a preferred embodiment, the splash chamber inner diameter is larger than the outer diameter of the brush assemblies 110 to allow for complete relaxation of the brush fibers 200 (FIGURES 5, 5A, 5B) , and the splash chamber length is preferably at least the length of one of the brush assemblies 110. The

splash chamber seal lip 137 is preferentially employed to gradually increase the inner diameter between the splash chamber seal 138 and the splash chamber 140. In a preferred embodiment, the inner diameter of the splash chamber 140 is approximately 6" and the length is approximately 10". Although the splash chamber inlet seal 138 is designed to prevent flow of the input oil/water mixture from the sample introduction chamber 134 into the splash chamber 140, some residual water will be present in the brush assemblies 110 and in the spaces between adjacent brush assemblies 110 and will be carried into the splash chamber 140. This residual water is removed in the splash chamber via the first stage water outlet line 122, which is preferentially configured as a "sanitary T" in the flow path. To facilitate additional water removal from the brush assemblies 110, the splash chamber 140 can be outfitted with one or more air inlet lines 139A (see FIGURE 3A) to direct air streams into the splash chamber 140 via air jets 139B. The brush assemblies 110 then proceed through an "o-ring" dam 141 into an oil removal chamber 143. The dam 141 creates a slight reduction in the inner diameter of the splash chamber sufficient to prevent water collected in the splash chamber 140 from flowing in the direction of the brush assemblies 110 beyond the outlet 122 into the oil removal chamber 143. In a preferred embodiment, the dam 141 briefly reduces the inner diameter of the splash chamber 140 to about 5" and gently wipes each brush assembly 110 passing therethrough. In another preferred embodiment, the dam 141 briefly reduces the inner diameter of the splash chamber 140 to a distance proximate the outer diameter of each brush assembly 110 passing therethrough. The oil removal chamber 143 is preferentially the same inner diameter as

the splash chamber 140, and approximately 1/2 the length of the splash chamber 140.

Once the brush assemblies have entered the oil removal chamber 143, most of the water has been removed from the brush assemblies 110, yet the brush assemblies 110 remain loaded with the oil substance. To remove the oil substance from each brush assembly 110, the brush assemblies 110 proceed into an oil extruder device or passage 142 through an oil extruder lip 146 or dimple. Referring also to FIGURES 6, 7, 8, 8A and 8B, the oil extruder device is designed to create a restriction through which each brush assembly 110 must pass sufficient to extrude oil from each brush assembly 110. Referring to FIGURES 3 and 6, in one preferred embodiment, the oil extruder 142 is a substantially cylindrical member having an inner diameter 144 of about 3" and is further equipped with one or more "o-ring" shaped lips or protrusions 146 that create a restricted opening sufficient to extrude oil from the brush assemblies passing therethrough. In another alternative preferred embodiment, the oil extruder device or passage 142 is a perforated cylinder having an internal spiral rib or threading protruding into the inner diameter of the cylinder to create a restriction sufficient to extrude the oil substance from the brush assembly, so that the oil substance is channeled through the perforations into the oil removal chamber 143.

Referring to FIGURES 3, 7 and 8, in another preferred embodiment, the oil extruder device or passage 142 is a substantially cylindrical member 210 having an inner diameter 212 of about 2.75"-3", a lip 216 and a series of oil extruder nodes or dimples 214 that create a restricted opening sufficient to extrude oil from the brush assemblies passing therethrough. These protrusions or nodes 214 can be recessed from the lip 216 as shown.

or could be part of the lip 216 to create a scalloped lip. The cylinder 210 is preferably constructed of a strong material such as stainless steel.

FIGURES 3 and FIGURE 3B depict a preferred embodiment of an oil extruder device or passage 142 construction of the present invention. In this embodiment, the oil extruder 142 is a substantially hollow, cylindrical member having an inner diameter 144A and length 144B. The lip 146 of the extruder 142 has a plurality of nodes or scallops 145. In a preferred embodiment, this extruder 142 is fabricated out of a strong material such as stainless steel. To facilitate installation of the extruder 142 into the separator 102, a flange member 147 or other suitable fabrication means can be provided proximate the exit side 149 of the extruder 142. The flange unit diameter is sized such that it will mate with a flange connection on the exit side of the oil removal chamber 143. In this preferred embodiment, a conical-shaped oil extruder exit ramp 148 extends beyond the exit side 149 of the extruder 142. The oil extruder exit ramp 148 is preferentially conical in shape to allow a smooth transition of the brush fibers 200 back to their original shape, and to reduce any flinging that may occur as the brush fibers 200 go from a compressed state in the extruder 142 to a less compressed state. In a preferred embodiment, this extruder 142 has an inner diameter 144a of about 2.75", or such other inner diameter to create a restricted opening sufficient to extrude oil from the brush assemblies passing therethrough, and has a length 144b of about 2", or other desirable length.

Referring to FIGURES 3, 8A and 8B, in another preferred embodiment, the oil extruder device or passage 142 is a substantially conical member 220 constructed from a strong substance such as stainless steel, having

an entrance lip 222 with an inner diameter of about 2.75", or such other inner diameter to create a restricted opening sufficient to extrude oil from the brush assemblies passing therethrough, and a length of about 2". The entrance lip 222 can also be scalloped, or can be modified to include an additional entrance lip 228.

Other mechanical means for extrusion of the oil substance from the brush assemblies 110 are contemplated, and the above described extrusion devices are set forth as preferred embodiments. For example, a pair of extrusion roller members could be positioned within the oil removal chamber such that the rollers were rotatable about an axis substantially perpendicular to the movement of the brush assemblies and such the brush assembly passed between the two rollers. The rollers would be spaced apart at a distance or gap to compress the brush assemblies sufficient to extrude the oil substances from the brush assemblies as the brush assemblies passed between the adjacent roller members. The gap could be adjustable, and additional extrusion roller members could be employed in like fashion to create a desired extrusion travel path.

As each brush assembly passes into the oil extruder device 142, the extruded oil falls from the lip area 146 into the oil removal chamber 143 and is removed via the first stage oil outlet 124. The separated oil can then be further processed, if necessary or desired, by introducing the oil into the inlet of another separation unit, or such oil can be collected in a holding tank or routed to another appropriate location. Each brush assembly then passes through the oil extruder 142 into the oil extruder exit ramp 148. The oil extruder exit ramp 148 is preferentially conical in shape to allow a smooth transition of the brush fibers 200 back

to their original shape, and to reduce any flinging that may occur as the brush fibers 200 go from a compressed state to a less compressed state.

In the two-stage separation unit 102 depicted in FIGURES 1, 2, 3, and 3A, the extruded brush string 110 passes from the first stage 106 via the oil extrusion chamber exit ramp 148 into the second stage 108 inlet seal 158. The second stage unit 108 is substantially identical in construction to the first stage unit 106. The excess oil/water mixture from the stage one sample introduction chamber 134 is directed via bypass line 116 to the second stage inlet port 120 in the second stage 108. As the brush assemblies 110 enter the second stage 108, they pass through an inlet seal entry lip 157. The lip 157 is designed to gradually reduce its inner diameter from the inner diameter defined by the first stage oil extrusion exit ramp 148 to a pre-determined inner diameter sufficient to compress the brush assemblies 110 in the second stage inlet seal 158 to create a fluid-tight seal. Depending on the configuration of the first stage oil extruder device 142, a lip 157 may be unnecessary where the inner diameter is already at the desired size to achieve a fluid barrier in the seal 158. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the brush assemblies 110 are approximately 5-5 1/2" diameter by 9" length, and are spaced approximately 2" apart on the cable means 112, and the inlet seal 158 length is sufficient to receive approximately one to one and one half brush assemblies 110. Thus, as the brush assemblies 110 proceed into the inlet seal 158, the brush assemblies 110 are compressed to a sufficient degree to create a fluid barrier in the inlet seal 158.

After proceeding through the inlet seal 158, the brush assemblies 110 are then introduced into the second stage oil/water introduction chamber 159. The oil/water

introduction chamber 159 has an inner diameter larger than the inlet seal 158, and preferentially slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the brush assemblies 110 to allow some, but not complete relaxation of the brush assemblies 110. The oil/water mixture from the inlet 120 contacts the brush assemblies 110 in the oil/water sample introduction chamber 159. The oil substance in the mixture then adsorbs/absorbs onto the brush assemblies 110 to load each brush assembly with the oil substance. In this preferred embodiment, the inner diameter of the oil/water introduction chamber was approximately 4", but this diameter could be varied to create different loading regimes.

As the brush assemblies 110 proceed through the sample introduction chamber 159, they pass by a water return line inlet 128, through a splash chamber inlet seal lip 160 and into a splash chamber inlet seal 162 having a reduced inner diameter similar to that of the inlet seal 158 such that the brush assemblies 110 are compressed sufficient to create a fluid barrier. The lip 160 is preferentially employed to gradually reduce the inner diameter between the sample introduction chamber 159 and the splash chamber seal 162. Due to the fluid barrier created in the splash chamber seal 162, excess input oil/water mixture in the sample introduction chamber 159 is directed through the water return line inlet 128 through a water return line 126 to a holding tank or to the inlet of another separation stage unit. As the brush assemblies 110 proceed through the splash chamber seal 162, they enter the second stage splash chamber 166. In a preferred embodiment, the splash chamber inner diameter is larger than the outer diameter of the brush assemblies 110 to allow for complete relaxation of the brush fibers 200 (FIGURES 5, 5A, 5B) . The splash chamber seal lip 164 is

preferentially employed to gradually increase the inner diameter between the splash chamber seal 162 and the splash chamber 166. In a preferred embodiment, the inner diameter of the splash chamber 166 is approximately 6". Although the splash chamber inlet seal 162 is designed to prevent flow of the input oil/water mixture from the second stage sample introduction chamber 159 into the second stage splash chamber 166, some residual water will be present in the brush assemblies 110 and in the spaces between adjacent brush assemblies 110 and will be carried into the splash chamber 166. This residual water is removed in the splash chamber via the second stage water outlet line 168, which is preferentially configured as a "sanitary T" in the flow path. To facilitate additional water removal from the brush assemblies 110, the splash chamber 166 can be outfitted with one or more air inlet lines 139a to direct air streams into the splash chamber 166 via air jets 139b similar to that described in FIGURE 3A in conjunction with the first stage splash chamber 140.

The brush assemblies 110 then proceed through an "o-ring" dam 169 into an oil removal chamber 171. The dam 169 creates a slight reduction in the inner diameter of the splash chamber sufficient to prevent water collected in the splash chamber 166 from flowing in the direction of the brush assemblies 110 beyond the outlet 168 into the oil removal chamber 171. In a preferred embodiment, the dam 169 briefly reduces the inner diameter of the splash chamber 166 to about 5" and gently wipes each brush assembly 110 passing therethrough. The oil removal chamber 171 is preferentially the same inner diameter as the splash chamber 166.

Once the brush assemblies have entered the second stage oil removal chamber 171, most of the water has been removed from the brush assemblies 110, yet the brush

assemblies 110 remain loaded with the oil substance. To remove the oil substance from each brush assembly 110, the brush assemblies 110 proceed into a second stage oil extruder device 172 in similar fashion as done in the stage one oil extruder 142 described above in conjunction with FIGURES 6, 7, 8, 8A and 8B. The oil extruder device 172 is designed to create a restriction through which each brush assembly 110 must pass sufficient to extrude oil from each brush assembly 110. As each brush assembly passes into the oil extruder device 172, the extruded oil falls into the second stage oil removal chamber 171 and is removed via the second stage oil outlet 170. The separated oil can then be further processed, if necessary or desired, by introducing the oil into the inlet of another separation unit, or such oil can be collected in a holding tank or routed to another appropriate location. Each brush assembly then passes through the oil extruder 172 into the second stage oil extruder exit ramp 184. The oil extruder exit ramp is preferentially conical in shape to allow a smooth transition of the brush fibers 200 back to their original shape, and to reduce any flinging that may occur as the brush fibers 200 go from a compressed state to a less compressed state and exit out of the second stage separation unit 108.

Referring now also to FIGURE 9, an alternative preferred embodiment of an oil/water separator 232 is depicted. Much like the separator 102 depicted in FIGURES 1 and 2, this embodiment utilizes two separation stages operating in non-axial relationship. The first stage 236 of this embodiment is configured much like the first stage 106 depicted in FIGURES 1, 2, 3, 3A, and 3B described above, except that each brush assembly 240 exits the first stage 236 after passing through the oil extruder exit ramp 278 and enters into the housing

chamber 304 before again entering another separator unit. In this embodiment, it is preferred that both flywheels, 284, 280 be engaged by their respective motors, 286, 282 to maintain even tension on the cable means 242. This embodiment is contained in a similar outer housing 234. In this embodiment, the oil/water mixture to be treated is moved via pump means (not shown) through a conduit from a source of the oil/water mixture and introduced under pressure into an inlet 244 in the first stage 236. As the brush assemblies 240 pulled by cable means 242 enter the first stage 236, they pass through an inlet seal entry lip 262. The lip 262 is designed to gradually reduce its inner diameter from approximately the outer diameter of the brush assembly 240 to a pre- determined inner diameter sufficient to compress the brush assemblies 240 in the inlet seal 260 to create a fluid-tight seal. As the brush assemblies 240 proceed into the inlet seal 260, the brush assemblies 240 are compressed to a sufficient degree to create a fluid barrier in the inlet seal 260.

After proceeding through the inlet seal 260, the brush assemblies 240 are then introduced into an oil/water introduction chamber 264. The oil/water introduction chamber 264 has an inner diameter larger than the inlet seal 260, and preferentially slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the brush assemblies 240 to allow some, but not complete relaxation of the brush assemblies 240. The oil/water mixture from the inlet 244 contacts the brush assemblies 240 in the oil/water sample introduction chamber 264. The oil substance in the mixture then adsorbs/absorbs onto the brush assemblies 240 to load each brush assembly with the oil substance.

As the brush assemblies 240 proceed through the sample introduction chamber 134, they pass by a cross-

over line inlet 248, through a splash chamber inlet seal lip 166 and into a splash chamber inlet seal 268 having a reduced inner diameter similar to that of the inlet seal 260 such that the brush assemblies 240 are compressed sufficient to create a fluid barrier. The lip 266 is preferentially employed to gradually reduce the inner diameter between the sample introduction chamber 264 and the splash chamber seal 268. Due to the fluid barrier created in the splash chamber seal 268, excess input oil/water mixture in the sample introduction chamber 264 is directed through the cross-over line inlet 248 through a cross-over line 246 to an inlet 250 in the second stage 238.

As the brush assemblies 240 proceed through the splash chamber seal 268, they enter the splash chamber 270. In a preferred embodiment, the splash chamber inner diameter is larger than the outer diameter of the brush assemblies 240 to allow for complete relaxation of the brush fibers 200 (FIGURES 5, 5A, 5B) , and the splash chamber length is preferably at least as long as the length of one of the brush assemblies 240. The splash chamber seal lip 267 is preferentially employed to gradually increase the inner diameter between the splash chamber seal 268 and the splash chamber 270. Although the splash chamber inlet seal 268 is designed to prevent flow of the input oil/water mixture from the sample introduction chamber 264 into the splash chamber 270, some residual water will be present in the brush assemblies 240 and in the spaces between adjacent brush assemblies 240 and will be carried into the splash chamber 270. This residual water is removed in the splash chamber via the first stage water outlet line 252, which is preferentially configured as a "sanitary T" in the flow path. To facilitate additional water removal from the brush assemblies 240, the splash chamber 270 can

be outfitted with one or more air inlet lines 139a to direct air streams into the splash chamber 270 via air jets 139b (as described in conjunction with the slash chamber 140 in FIGURE 3A) . The brush assemblies 240 then proceed through an "o-ring" dam 271 into an oil removal chamber 273. The dam 271 creates a slight reduction in the inner diameter of the splash chamber sufficient to prevent water collected in the splash chamber 270 from flowing in the direction of the brush assemblies 240 beyond the outlet 252 into the oil removal chamber 273. In a preferred embodiment, the dam 271 briefly reduces the inner diameter of the splash chamber 270 to gently wipe each brush assembly 240 passing therethrough. Once the brush assemblies have entered the oil removal chamber 273, most of the water has been removed from the brush assemblies 240, yet the brush assemblies 240 remain loaded with the oil substance. To remove the oil substance from each brush assembly 240, the brush assemblies 240 proceed into an oil extruder device 272 through an oil extruder lip 276. Referring also to FIGURES 6, 7, 8, 8A and 8B, the oil extruder device 272 is designed to create a restriction through which each brush assembly 240 must pass sufficient to extrude oil from each brush assembly 240. As each brush assembly passes into the oil extruder device 272, the extruded oil falls from the lip area 276 into the oil removal chamber 273 and is removed via the first stage oil outlet 254. The separated oil can then be further processed, if necessary or desired, by introducing the oil into the inlet of another separation unit, or such oil can be collected in a holding tank or routed to another appropriate location. Each brush assembly then passes through the oil extruder 272 into the oil extruder exit ramp 278. The oil extruder exit ramp is preferentially

conical in shape to allow a smooth transition of the brush fibers 200 back to their original shape, and to reduce any flinging that may occur as the brush fibers 200 go from a compressed state to a less compressed state.

In the split single stage separation unit 232 depicted in FIGURE 9, the extruded brush string 240 passes from the first stage 236 via the oil extrusion chamber exit ramp 278, around the first flywheel 280 and into the second stage 238 inlet seal 288. The second stage unit 238 is substantially identical in construction to the first stage unit 236. The excess oil/water mixture from the stage one sample introduction chamber 264 is directed via cross-over line 246 to the second stage inlet port 250 in the second stage 238. As the brush assemblies 240 enter the second stage 238, they pass through an inlet seal entry lip 287. The lip 287 is designed to gradually reduce its inner diameter from approximately the outer diameter of the brush assembly 240 to a pre-determined inner diameter sufficient to compress the brush assemblies 240 in the inlet seal 287 to create a fluid-tight seal. As the brush assemblies 240 proceed into the inlet seal 288, the brush assemblies 240 are compressed to a sufficient degree to create a fluid barrier in the inlet seal 288.

After proceeding through the inlet seal 288, the brush assemblies 240 are then introduced into the second stage oil/water introduction chamber 289. The oil/water introduction chamber 289 has an inner diameter larger than the inlet seal 288, and preferentially slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the brush assemblies 240 to allow some, but not complete relaxation of the brush assemblies 240. The oil/water mixture from the inlet 250 contacts the brush assemblies 240 in the oil/water sample introduction chamber 289. The oil

substance in the mixture then adsorbs/absorbs onto the brush assemblies 240 to load each brush assembly with the oil substance.

As the brush assemblies 240 proceed through the sample introduction chamber 289, they pass by a water return line inlet 258, through a splash chamber inlet seal lip 290 and into a splash chamber inlet seal 292 having a reduced inner diameter similar to that of the inlet seal 288 such that the brush assemblies 240 are compressed sufficient to create a fluid barrier. The lip 290 is preferentially employed to gradually reduce the inner diameter between the sample introduction chamber 289 and the splash chamber seal 292. Due to the fluid barrier created in the splash chamber seal 292, excess input oil/water mixture in the sample introduction chamber 289 is directed through the water return line inlet 258 through a water return line 256 to a holding tank or to the inlet of another separation stage unit. As the brush assemblies 240 proceed through the splash chamber seal 292, they enter the second stage splash chamber 296. In a preferred embodiment, the splash chamber inner diameter is larger than the outer diameter of the brush assemblies 240 to allow for complete relaxation of the brush fibers 200 (FIGURES 5, 5A, 5B) . The splash chamber seal lip 294 is preferentially employed to gradually increase the inner diameter between the splash chamber seal 292 and the splash chamber 296. Although the splash chamber inlet seal 292 is designed to prevent flow of the input oil/water mixture from the second stage sample introduction chamber 289 into the second stage splash chamber 296, some residual water will be present in the brush assemblies 240 and in the spaces between adjacent brush assemblies 240 and will be carried into the splash chamber 296. This residual water is removed in the

splash chamber via the second stage water outlet line 298, which is preferentially configured as a "sanitary T" in the flow path. To facilitate additional water removal from the brush assemblies 240, the splash chamber 296 can be outfitted with one or more air inlet lines 139a to direct air streams into the splash chamber 166 via air jets 139b similar to that described in FIGURE 3A in conjunction with the first stage splash chamber 140.

The brush assemblies 240 then proceed through an "o-ring" dam 299 into an oil removal chamber 301. The dam 299 creates a slight reduction in the inner diameter of the splash chamber sufficient to prevent water collected in the splash chamber 296 from flowing in the direction of the brush assemblies 240 beyond the outlet 298 into the oil removal chamber 301. In a preferred embodiment, the dam 299 briefly reduces the inner diameter of the splash chamber 296 to gently wipe each brush assembly 240 passing therethrough. The oil removal chamber 301 is preferentially the same inner diameter as the splash chamber 296.

Once the brush assemblies have entered the second stage oil removal chamber 301, most of the water has been removed from the brush assemblies 240, yet the brush assemblies 240 remain loaded with the oil substance. To remove the oil substance from each brush assembly 240, the brush assemblies 240 proceed into a second stage oil extruder device 302 in similar fashion as done in the stage one oil extruder 142 described above in conjunction with FIGURES 6, 7, 8, 8A and 8B. The oil extruder device 302 is designed to create a restriction through which each brush assembly 240 must pass sufficient to extrude oil from each brush assembly 240.

As each brush assembly passes into the oil extruder device 302, the extruded oil falls into the second stage oil removal chamber 301 and is removed via

the second stage oil outlet 300. The separated oil can then be further processed, if necessary or desired, by introducing the oil into the inlet of another separation unit, or such oil can be collected in a holding tank or routed to another appropriate location. Each brush assembly then passes through the oil extruder 302 into the second stage oil extruder exit ramp 314. The oil extruder exit ramp is preferentially conical in shape to allow a smooth transition of the brush fibers 200 back to their original shape, and to reduce any flinging that may occur as the brush fibers 200 go from a compressed state to a less compressed state and exit out of the second stage separation unit 238. The brush assemblies 240 are then pulled around flywheel 284 where the again enter the first stage separator 236.

Referring now to FIGURE 10 in conjunction with FIGURES 1 and 2 discussed above, there is depicted a four stage oil water separator according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, two sets of axial stream separation units are deployed. In this embodiment, a first set of the separation stages 106 and 108 are linked together in axial fluid communication and utilized in tandem with a second set of separation stages 106A and 108B also liked together in axial fluid communication. In this embodiment, the brush string enters the first set through the inlet lip 132 of stage 106, exits through the oil extrusion exit ramp 184 of stage 108, proceeds around flywheel 154, enters the second set through the inlet lip 132 of stage 106a, exits through the oil extrusion exit ramp 184 of stage 108A, proceeds around flywheel 150, and then back into the inlet lip 132 of stage 106. The oil/water mixture enters through inlet 114 of stage 106. Residual oil/water mixture from the oil/water sample introduction chamber 134 of stage 106 is ported via the bypass line 116 to the

oil/water sample introduction chamber 159 of stage 108. Residual oil/water mixture from the oil/water sample introduction chamber 159 of stage 108 is ported via the water return line 126 of stage 108 to the oil/water sample introduction chamber 134 of stage 106a. Residual oil/water mixture from the oil/water sample introduction chamber 134 of stage 106a is ported via the bypass line 116 to the oil/water sample introduction chamber 159 of stage 108a. Treated water is removed from outlets 122 and 168 and discharged into a storage facility or ported to the inlet of another separation unit.

Other dimensions are possible, and the previous dimensions have been given only to illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Also, while FIGURES 1 and 2 illustrate a two-stage 106, 108 separation system, a single stage 106 could be employed, in which case, the outflow of water from the bypass inlet 118 and the water outlet 122 could be directed to a holding tank, disposal area, or to the inlet of another single or multi-stage separation unit until the water quality is acceptable. Additionally, the separators described herein, such as 106 in FIGURE 3, could be modified to eliminate the use of a bypass line 116. In this scenario, all of the water would exit the separator 106 through the water outlet 122. In this embodiment, the splash chamber 140, water outlet 122 and dam 141 are of sufficient size to accommodate the water flow rate in the system to prevent water from being forced past the dam 141 into the oil removal chamber 143. The units are modular and may be run in series or in parallel.

FIGURES 11-13 depict another preferred embodiment of the present invention pertaining to a conveyor belt oil/water separator 332. In this embodiment, there is provided a housing 334 (shown with the top portion cut

away) containing a belt assembly 336 conveyed (as indicated by the arrow) on rotatable belt drive shaft spools 340, 342. Rotation of at least one of the spools, for example 340, is powered by a belt drive motor 338. The belt assembly 336 preferably has a backing layer 339 for frictional engagement with the spools 340, and an oil affinity layer 337 for contacting the oil/water mixture. The oil affinity layer 337 is preferably constructed of a matrix of fibers capable of absorbing/adsorbing petrochemical and oil-like substances. This matrix of fibers can be constructed as a plurality of densely packed fibers arranged substantially perpendicular to the belt backing layer 339, as a web or mesh of fibers of a desired thickness, as a sponge-like layer, as a plurality of rotatable roller brushes (398, 460, 560 described below in conjunction with FIGURES 14-16) , or the like.

In this embodiment, the oil/water mixture is introduced onto the oil affinity layer through an inlet 344. The inlet is preferably designed to evenly distribute the oil/water mixture across the surface of the oil affinity layer 337. As the oil/water mixture enters the separator 332, the oil preferentially adsorbs/absorbs to the oil affinity layer 337 of belt assembly 336 rather than remain in the water phase. The water and the adsorbed/absorbed oil are conveyed along the belt assembly 336 to a water removal assembly 346 where the water is discharged through the water outlet 348. The adsorbed/absorbed oil remains in the oil affinity layer 337 until the belt assembly reaches the oil removal assembly 350, where the oil is mechanically stripped from the oil affinity layer 337 and discharged through the oil outlet 352. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the oil affinity layer is constructed from a polyethylene or polypropylene-like material.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the water removal assembly 346 consists of a water extrusion plate 354 mounted within the housing 334 proximate the first belt drive shaft spool 340. The water extrusion plate 354 contains one or more perforations designed to allow water to pass therethrough into the water extrusion chamber 358. The water extrusion plate 354 is positioned in frictional contact with the belt assembly 336 such that it creates a substantial flow barrier between the belt assembly 336 and the water extrusion plate 354. In a preferred embodiment, the degree of friction between the water extrusion plate 354 and the belt assembly 336 can be increased or decreased by moving the spool 340 or by moving the plate 354, such as for example, by employing a pivotal mount 355 for the water extrusion plate 354 and providing a means for tensioning the plate 356. Thus, as water flows along the top of the belt assembly 336 and reaches the water removal assembly, the water will take the path of least resistance and be ejected through the perforated plate 354, into the water extrusion chamber 358, and out the water outlet 348. Additionally, an inlet 360 is also provided to receive any water that may continue to cascade from the belt assembly 336 after passing through the water extrusion plate 354.

Additionally, the floor of housing 334 can be sloped toward the water extrusion chamber inlet 360 to collect any water dripping down from the belt assembly 336 after the belt assembly 336 passes through the water extrusion device and moves toward the oil removal assembly 350. The water received from the water outlet 348 can be collected in a storage tank, routed to another appropriate location, disposed of, or be re-treated as may be necessary to further remove any oil from the water.

After the belt assembly 336 passes through the water removal assembly 346, it moves toward the oil removal assembly 350. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the oil removal assembly 350 consists of an oil extrusion plate 362 mounted within the housing 334 proximate the second belt drive shaft spool 342. The oil extrusion plate 362 contains one or more perforations designed to allow oil to pass therethrough into the oil extrusion chamber 368. The oil extrusion plate 362 is positioned in frictional contact with the belt assembly 336 such that it creates a substantial flow barrier or restriction between the belt assembly 336 and the oil extrusion plate 362. In a preferred embodiment, the degree of friction between the oil extrusion plate 362 and the belt assembly 336 can be increased or decreased by moving the spool 342 or by moving the plate 362, such as for example, by employing a pivotal mount 366 for the oil extrusion plate 362 and providing a means for tensioning the plate 364. Thus, as oil substances are absorbed/adsorbed into the oil affinity layer 337 along the top of the belt assembly 336, they are carried on the belt assembly through the water removal assembly 346, and then into the oil removal assembly 350 and extruded through the perforated plate 362, into the oil extrusion chamber 368, and out the oil outlet 352. Additionally, an inlet area 370 is also provided to receive any oil that may continue to flow from the belt assembly 336 after passing through the oil extrusion plate 362. The oil received from the oil outlet 352 can be collected in a storage tank, routed to another appropriate location, disposed of, or be re-treated as may be necessary to further remove any water from the oil.

FIGURES 14, 14A, 14B, and 14C show additional separator embodiments 390, 390A of the present invention utilizing roller members 398 containing an oil affinity

material to remove oil from an oil/water mixture. In these embodiments, one or more roller members 398 are attached to flywheel housing 400. The flywheel 400 is rotated by a motor unit 404. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of roller members 398 are mounted in radial relationship to each other around the flywheel 400. The oil/water mixture enters through inlet(s) 392 and proceeds along a channel 393 at a preferred depth of the diameter of a roller member 398. The depth of oil/water mixture in channel 393 can be monitored with a water level sensor 397 or other suitable means and can be interfaced with pumping means (not shown) and inlet 392 to introduce the oil/water mixture into the separator 390, 390A at the desired rate. The exterior of the roller members 398 contain a layer or matrix of fibers capable of absorbing/adsorbing petrochemical and oil-like substances. This matrix of fibers can be constructed as a plurality of densely packed fibers arranged substantially perpendicular to the roller member surface 398, as a web or mesh of fibers of a desired thickness, as a sponge-like layer, or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the rollers are constructed similar to the brush assemblies 110 described in conjunction with FIGURES 4, 5, 5A, and 5B. The roller members 300 are mounted to the flywheel 400 with a bearing mechanism 401 to allow each member to individually rotate about its longitudinal axis 395, and to have its longitudinal axis aligned substantially perpendicular to the flow path of the oil/water mixture in the channel 393. As the flywheel 400 rotates, each roller member 398 contacts the oil/water mixture where oil substances then become adsorbed/absorbed to the rollers 398. Each roller then leaves contact with the oil/water mixture at which time the water cascades off

each roller 398 by gravity flow back down into the channel 393.

Each roller member 398 then preferably has additional water removed and returned to the channel 393 by way of a water removal means which can be located in or proximate chamber 402. In one preferred embodiment, the water is gently squeezed off of the roller 398 by passing the roller 398 through a first zone of compression 405 created by a camming surface 403 that engages the surface of each roller 398 as the flywheel 400 moves the roller 398 in a fixed radial path 399 through the first zone of compression 405. In this preferred embodiment, the zone 405 has a plateau of most compression at least equal in length to the circumference of the outside of the roller 398 to ensure at least one full sweep of the roller. In a preferred embodiment, a series of air jets 440 similar to those described in conjunction with FIGURE 3A (139a-b) can be employed proximate the first zone of compression 405 to blow water off of each roller 398 as it leaves the first zone of compression 405, or alternatively, air jets 440 could be used in lieu of the first zone of compression 405 to facilitate removal of water from the rollers 398. The roller 398 then proceeds into an oil extrusion means which can be located within chamber 402 where the extruded oil is discharged out an outlet 394.

Referring to FIGURES 14B and 14C, in one preferred embodiment, the oil is extruded or squeezed off of the roller by passing the roller 398 through a second zone of compression 409 created by an oil extrusion camming device 406 mounted within housing 391 proximate the rollers 398 that engages the surface of each roller 398 as the flywheel 400 moves the roller 398 in a fixed radial path through the second zone of compression 409. The compression created in the second zone 409 is greater

than the compression created in the first zone of compression 405. In a preferred embodiment, the second zone 409 has a plateau of most compression at least equal in length to the circumference of the outside of the roller 403 to ensure at least one full sweep of the roller. As roller compression takes place in the second zone 409, the oil substances are extruded from the rollers 398 and flow down into collection troughs 407 and ultimately out of camming device 406 via outlets 394. The camming device 406 contains a lip or seal member 410 extending up from the edge of the camming device 406 to a position proximate bearing 401 or axis 395 of the roller 398 between the flywheel 400 and the end of the roller 398 to prevent the extruded oil from flowing over the edge of the camming device back into the channel 393. The troughs 407 have front walls 407A and rear walls 407B, and a valley or floor 407C that slants downward from the front to the back to direct the collected oil to outlets 394. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the second zone of compression 409 can be built as part of the housing 391, much like the first zone of compression, with an appropriate means for collecting the oil mounted proximate thereto.

Referring to FIGURES 14 and 14A, in another preferred embodiment, the oil extrusion means of FIGURE 14 employs a centrifuge means (such as that described below in conjunction with FIGURES 15-18) located in or proximate chamber 402 where each roller is engaged by a centrifugal flywheel means to spin the roller 398 therein about its axis 395 to cause the oil substances to be centrifugally extruded into a collection zone 436 within the enclosed chamber 402. In this embodiment, each roller 398 has a centrifugal flywheel 426 in frictional relationship with roller 398. Once the roller 398 has entered the chamber 402, the centrifugal flywheel 426 for

that roller comes into frictional engagement with a centrifugal engagement means 428, such as a mated flywheel or belt drive, that is driven by a centrifugal drive means such as motor means 430 thereby spinning the roller 398 therein about its axis 395 and bearing 401 to cause the oil substances to be centrifugally extruded into a collection zone or tray 436 of chamber 402. The extruded oil from each roller 398 is then routed out of the extrusion chamber 402 through the outlet 394 where the oil can then be collected or directed to a second separator. The chamber 402 is provided with a suitable means for receiving the rollers. In a preferred embodiment, the chamber 402 comprises a housing having a top wall 402A, a bottom wall 402B, a pair of opposed top side walls 402D connected to the top wall 402A, a pair of opposed bottom side walls 402C connected to the bottom wall 402B. The opposed top and bottom side walls 402C, 402D are separated from each other by an axle channel 412 capable of receiving the roller axle/ bearing 401 as the roller 398 moves therethrough in a radial path. The axle channel 412 can be outfitted with a flexible seal means (not shown) to create a substantially fluid tight seal around the axle of roller 398. The chamber 402 also contains an upper entrance trap door 414 hingably mounted by hinge 418 between the opposed top side walls 402D, and a lower entrance trap door 416 hingably mounted by hinge 419 between the opposed bottom side walls 402C such that the entrance trap doors 414, 416, will be urged open by each roller 398 as the roller enters the chamber 402. Once the roller has entered the chamber, the entrance doors will automatically close via suitable closure means, such as a spring mechanism used in hinges 418, 419. The chamber 402 also contains an upper exit trap door 422 hingably mounted by hinge 420 proximate the opposed top side walls 402D, and a lower exit trap door

424 hingably mounted by hinge 421 proximate the opposed bottom side walls 402C such that the exit trap doors 422, 424, will be urged open by each roller 398 as the roller exits the chamber 402. Once the roller has exited the chamber, the exit doors will automatically close via suitable closure means, such as a spring mechanism used in hinges 420, 421. In this embodiment, the centrifugal flywheels 426, and centrifuge means 428, 430 are located outside of the chamber 402. Preferably, the chamber bottom 402B is configured to create a slope towards outlet 394.

FIGURES 15 and 15A depict another preferred embodiment of the present invention pertaining to a conveyor belt oil/water separator 450. In this embodiment, there is provided a housing 452 containing a roller belt assembly 459 conveyed (as indicated by the arrow) by means of rotatable belt drive shaft spools 466, 467. Rotation of at least one of the spools, for example 467, is powered by a conveyor chain drive motor 470. In this embodiment, the roller belt assembly 459 further comprises a set of sprocket wheels 468 in frictional engagement with, and on the ends of each spool 466, 467, a set of brush conveyor chains 462 in frictional engagement with each set of sprocket wheels, and a plurality of roller/brushes 460 rotatably mounted on axles 464 between the two brush conveyor chains 462 by use of brush axle bearing mounts 465. The rollers 460 each have an axis of rotation 473.

The plurality of rollers 460 serves as an oil affinity layer for contacting the oil/water mixture present in the oil/water tray channel 474. The oil/water mixture proceeds from reservoir 458 through inlet 454 via pump 456 and further proceeds along the channel or tray 474 at a preferred depth of the diameter of a roller member 460. The depth of oil/water mixture in channel

474 can be monitored with a water level sensor 397 (not shown here, such as shown in FIGURE 14B) or other suitable means and can be interfaced with pumping means 456 and inlet 454 to introduce the oil/water mixture into the separator 450 at a desired flow rate. Immersion rollers 472 or other suitable means are employed to direct the rollers 460 into the oil/water tray 474 to create a zone of contact between the oil/water mixture and the rollers 460. The exterior of the roller members 460 contain a layer or matrix of fibers capable of absorbing/adsorbing petrochemical and oil-like substances. The oil affinity layer is preferably constructed of a matrix of fibers capable of absorbing/adsorbing petrochemical and oil-like substances. In this preferred embodiment, this matrix of fibers can be constructed as a plurality of densely packed fibers arranged substantially perpendicular around the longitudinal axis of each roller 460, or as a web, mesh or sponge-like layer of fibers of a desired thickness arranged around the longitudinal axis of each roller 460, or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the rollers 460 are constructed similar to the brush assemblies 110 described in conjunction with FIGURES 4, 5, 5A, and 5B. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the oil affinity layer, here brushes 460, is constructed from a polyethylene or polypropylene-like material.

As the oil/water mixture enters the separator unit 450, the oil preferentially adsorbs/absorbs to the oil affinity layer/rollers 460 of belt assembly 459 rather than remain in the water phase. The adsorbed/absorbed oil is conveyed along the belt assembly 460 in rollers 460. As each roller 460 leaves the channel 474 proximate sprocket wheel 468, excess water flows off the rollers 460 and cascades back into the channel 474.

The adsorbed/absorbed oil remains in the oil affinity layer, here brushes 460, until the belt assembly

459 reaches the oil separator chamber 476, where the oil is mechanically stripped from the oil affinity layer 460 and discharged through the oil outlet 490. Each roller

460 proceeds into an enclosed oil separator chamber 476 capable of receiving the roller 460 while maintaining a substantially fluid tight seal in similar fashion to the chamber 402 described in conjunction with FIGURES 14 and 14A. In a preferred embodiment, the oil separator chamber 476 is designed to surround the roller 460 by receiving the roller axle 464 allowing the roller 460 to pass therethrough via separator entrance plates 478, 479 and separator exit plates 486, 488. The roller axles 464 proceed through the chamber 476 along an axle channel 477 which divides the chamber into a top half 476A and a bottom half 476B. The axle channel 477 preferentially contains a seal member 481 to maintain a substantially fluid tight seal within the chamber 476. Each roller member 460 preferably has additional water removed and returned to the channel 474 by way of a water removal means which is located proximate the entrance of the oil separator chamber 476. In one preferred embodiment, the water is gently squeezed off of the rollers 460 by passing the rollers 460 through a first zone of compression 455 created by spacing the upper entrance plate 478 proximate the lower entrance plate 479 such that the plates 478, 479 frictionally engage the surface of each roller 460 as the roller 460 moves therethrough. The entrance plates are preferentially convex relative to the directional path of the roller belt assembly 459, but can also be employed with other configurations, such as a planar surface, or a ribbed surface. In another embodiment, a series of air jets (not shown) similar to those described in conjunction with FIGURE 3A (139a-b)

can be employed proximate the first zone of compression 455 to blow water off of each roller 460 as it approaches the first zone of compression 455, or alternatively, air jets (not shown) could be used in leu of the first zone of compression 455 to facilitate removal of water from the rollers 460 as the rollers 460 enter the oil separation chamber 476.

In a preferred embodiment, the rollers 460 then proceed into an oil extrusion means which can be located within the chamber 476 where the extruded oil is collected on the floor of chamber 476 and discharged out an outlet 490. The floor of chamber 476 is preferentially sloped toward the outlet 490. In one preferred embodiment, the oil is extruded or squeezed off of the roller by passing the rollers 460 through a second zone of compression (not shown) created by an oil extrusion camming device (not shown) such as that described in conjunction with FIGURES 14-14A mounted within the chamber 476. The compression created in the second zone is greater than the compression created in the first zone of compression 455. In a preferred embodiment, the second zone of compression has a plateau of most compression at least equal in length to the circumference of the outside of the rollers 460 to ensure at least one full sweep of the roller. As roller compression takes place in the second zone of compression, the oil substances are extruded from the rollers 460 and flow down into a lower portion of the chamber 476 to outlet 490. In another preferred embodiment, the oil extrusion means of FIGURE 15 employs a centrifuge means 484 located in chamber 476. In a preferred embodiment, each roller 460 has a centrifugal flywheel 480 fixably attached to one end (or both ends) of the roller 460 such that the flywheel 480 also rotates about the same axis of rotation

473. Each centrifugal flywheel 480 engages the centrifuge means 484 via gear or belt drive means (or the like) driven by motor means 482 whereupon each roller 460 is spun about its axis 473 for a desired length of time to cause the oil substances to be centrifugally extruded from each roller 460 into the chamber 476 and out the exit 490 where the oil can then be collected or directed to a second separator.

The rollers 460 then leave the chamber 476 by passing through upper and lower exit plates 486, 488 to return again to contact the oil/water channel 474. In another preferred embodiment, the exit plates 486, 488 can be configured to provide the extrusion of oil by, e.g., creating a camming surface with plates 486 and/or 488 to compress each roller 460 sufficient to extrude the oil. The water in the channel 474 ultimately proceeds to outlet 492 where it can then be collected in a storage tank, routed to another appropriate location, disposed of, or be re-treated as may be necessary to further remove any oil from the water.

In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the oil/water separator 450 of FIGURE 15 is configured like oil/water separator 332 of FIGURE 11 to remove oil and water via water removal and oil removal assemblies (such as that described in conjunction with FIGURES 11-13, 346, 350). Additionally, the oil/water separator 332 of FIGURE 11 can be modified to utilize a plurality of roller brushes 460 as the oil affinity layer 337. FIGURES 16-18 depict another preferred embodiment of the present invention pertaining to a conveyor belt oil/water separator 550. In this embodiment, there is provided a housing 552 containing a roller belt assembly 559 conveyed (as indicated by the arrow) by means of rotatable belt drive shaft spools 566, 567. Rotation of

at least one of the spools, for example 567, is powered by a conveyor chain drive motor 570. In this embodiment, the roller belt assembly 559 further comprises a set of sprocket wheels 568 in frictional engagement with, and on the ends of, each spool 566, 567, a set of brush conveyor chains 562 in frictional engagement with each set of sprocket wheels, and a plurality of roller/brushes 560 fixably mounted via suitable means 561 on axles 564. The axles 564 are rotatably located between the two brush conveyor chains 562 by use of brush axle bearing mounts 565 rotatably attaching a first end 564A and second end 564B of axle 564 to the conveyor means 562. The rollers 560 each have an axis of rotation 573 about their axles 564. The roller 560 is preferably located proximate the first end 564a of axle 564 along a portion of the axle 564.

The oil/water mixture proceeds from reservoir 558 through inlet 554 via pump 556 and further proceeds along the channel or tray 574 at a preferred depth of the diameter of a roller member 560. The depth of oil/water mixture in channel 574 can be monitored with a water level sensor 397 (not shown here, such as shown in FIGURE 14A) or other suitable means and can be interfaced with pumping means 556 and inlet 554 to introduce the oil/water mixture into the separator 550 at the desired application rate. Immersion rollers 572 or other suitable means are employed to direct the rollers 560 into the oil/water tray 574 to create a zone of contact between the oil/water mixture and the rollers 560. The plurality of rollers 560 serve as an oil affinity layer for contacting the oil/water mixture present in the oil/water tray channel 574. The exterior of the roller members 560 contain a layer or matrix of fibers capable of absorbing/adsorbing petrochemical and oil-like substances. The oil affinity layer is

preferably constructed of a matrix of fibers capable of absorbing/adsorbing petrochemical and oil-like substances. In this preferred embodiment, this matrix of fibers can be constructed as a plurality of densely packed fibers arranged substantially perpendicular around the longitudinal axis 573 of each roller 560, or as a web, mesh or sponge-like layer of fibers of a desired thickness arranged around the longitudinal axis 573 of each roller 560, or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the rollers 560 are constructed similar to the brush assemblies 110 described in conjunction with FIGURES 4, 5, 5A, and 5B. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the oil affinity layer, here brushes 560, is constructed from a polypropylene-like material. As the oil/water mixture enters the separator unit 550, the oil preferentially adsorbs/absorbs to the oil affinity layer/rollers 560 of belt assembly 559 rather than remain in the water phase. The adsorbed/absorbed oil is conveyed along the belt assembly 559 in rollers 560. As each roller 560 leaves the channel 574 proximate sprocket wheel 568, excess water flows off the rollers 560 and cascades back into the channel 574. Each roller member 560 preferably has additional water removed and returned to the channel 574 by way of a water removal means which is located proximate spool 566. In one preferred embodiment, the water is gently squeezed off of the rollers 560 by passing the rollers 560 through a first zone of compression 555 containing a camming surface or other mechanical means (such as those described above) to frictionally engage the surface of each roller 560 as the roller 560 moves therethrough. In another embodiment, a series of air jets (not shown) similar to those described in conjunction with FIGURE 3A (139a-b) can be employed proximate the first zone of compression 555 to urge water off of each roller 560 as

it approaches and moves through the first zone of compression 555, or alternatively, air jets (not shown) could be used in leu of the first zone of compression 555 to facilitate removal of water from the rollers 560 as the rollers 560 leave the oil/water channel 574. Each roller 560 has associated with it in substantially coaxial relationship an oil separation sleeve 571 sharing the axis 573 with the roller 560 and being configured to be capable of substantially surrounding the outer surface of the roller at a desired time. In a preferred embodiment, the sleeve 571 has a substantially cylindrical shape of a diameter greater than that of the outer diameter of the roller 560, an open end 575 capable of receiving the roller 560, and a closed end 576 fitted with a sleeve bushing 577 to maintain the coaxial alignment between the sleeve 571 and the roller 560 along an axle 564, having first and second ends 564a, 564b. Each sleeve 571 is preferably configured with a sleeve dam 583 capable of receiving the roller 560 and creating a retaining lip around the sleeve open end 575, and an oil collection zone 589 containing perforations 587 at the base of the sleeve 571. Each sleeve 571 is capable of moving longitudinally along axis 573 between the first and second ends 564a, 564b of axle 564 by way of sleeve pins 579 attached to the outside of sleeves 571 that ride within a sleeve position rail or tracking device 578. The sleeve position rail 578 is configured such that the sleeves 571 do not surround the rollers 560 when the rollers 560 are contacting the oil/water mixture in the channel 574.

While each roller 560 is in contact with the oil/water mixture in the channel 574, the sleeve position rail 578 maintains sleeves 571 proximate the second end 564b of axles 564 in an axial relationship with the rollers 560. The adsorbed/absorbed oil remains in the

oil affinity layer, here rollers/brushes 560, until the rollers/brushes enter their sleeves 571. As the rollers 560 leave the oil/water mixture, the sleeve positioning rail 578 guides the sleeves 571 along axle 564 towards the first end 564a of axle 564 into coaxial relationship with rollers 560. Once the entire length of the roller 560 has been fully positioned within the sleeve 571 (or centrifuge chamber) by operation of the sleeve position rail 578, the sleeve position rail 578 maintains the sleeve 571 in this position, or zone of centrifugation 586, for a desired length of time. In a preferred embodiment, each axle 564 is equipped with a sleeve end enclosure 581 that is fixedly mounted to the axle 564 proximate the first end 564a of the axle 564 such that when each sleeve 571 is in the zone of centrifugation 586, the sleeve end enclosure 581 will be proximate the sleeve open end 575 to serve as an oil retention device and splash shield. As each sleeve 571 moves through the centrifugation zone 586, a centrifugal flywheel 580 fixably mounted proximate the second end 564b of axle 564 is frictionally engaged by a centrifugation means 584, such as, a belt driven by a motor 582 to engage the flywheel 580, or a mated gear (not shown) driven by motor 582 to engage a mated flywheel 580, or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the centrifugation means 584 is engaged while the sleeve 571 is in the centrifugation zone 586 thereby causing the roller 560 to rotate at sufficiently high velocity to centrifugally extrude the adsorbed/absorbed oil substances from the oil affinity layer, here roller 560. The extruded oil then flows into the oil collection zone 589 in sleeve 571 and through the sleeve perforations 587 into an upper oil collection tray 588 located beneath the sleeves 571. The upper oil collection tray 588 is preferably sloped to create flow towards discharge outlet 590 where the oil can then be

discharged from the separator 550 and collected or directed to a second separator. A lower oil collection tray 588A is also similarly configured to route any collected oil substances to discharge outlet 590A. The length of centrifugation time can be lengthened by fashioning a longer zone of centrifugation 586 in the sleeve position rail 578 such that the sleeve remains over the roller 560, and the centrifugal mechanism 584 remains engaged for the desired length of time. In a preferred embodiment, the sleeve position rail 578 extends in a continuous loop surrounding the outside of the roller belt unit 559 and is employed to continuously engage the sleeve pins 579 as the belt assembly 559 rotates. The upper portion of the sleeve position rail 578 (between positions 578A and 578B) is configured to bring the sleeve into coaxial relationship with its respective roller/brush 560 through the centrifugation zone 586. The lower portion of the sleeve position rail 578 maintains the sleeves 571 in a non- coaxial relationship with their respective roller/brushes 560, such that the roller/brushes 560 can enter the oil/water mixture in channel 574 clear of the sleeves 571.

In another preferred embodiment, the sleeve position rail 578 is a segment extending from a first end 578a to a second end 578b. In this embodiment, each sleeve 571 is weighted about its axis 564 such that the sleeve oil collection zone 589 and the sleeve perforations 587 are maintained in a substantially downward position, and the sleeve pin is maintained in a substantially upward position when not engaged by the sleeve position rail 578 (see lower half of FIGURE 17 depicting such positioning) .

As the roller belt assembly 559 continues to rotate, it will bring the rollers 560 and sleeves 571 to

the end of the centrifugation zone 586 at which time the sleeves 571 are then retracted and the rollers 560 proceed around to reenter the oil/water mixture. The oil/water mixture continues to proceed through channel 574 until it reaches outlet 592 where it can then be directed to a collection facility or another oil/water separator.

In another preferred embodiment, the sleeve 571 and sleeve dam 583 can be configured to become a mechanical oil extruder. In this embodiment, the sleeve 571/sleeve dam 583 are configured much like the oil extruders 142, 210, and 220 described above in conjunction with FIGURES 3, 3B, 6, 7, 8, 8A-8B. In this embodiment, as each roller 560 enters the sleeve 571, the sleeve dam 583 (or sleeve itself) creates sufficient compression of the roller to mechanically strip the oil substances from the roller much like what occurs when the brush 110 passes through the oil extruders 142, 210, and 220 described above in conjunction with FIGURES 3, 3A, 6, 7, 8, 8A-8B. For example, in this embodiment, the sleeve opening 575 would contain a plurality of extrusion nodes (such as 145 in FIGURE 3B) around its circumference, and the sleeve opening would be of a desired diameter to create sufficient compression of the roller/brush 560 to extrude oil substances from the roller/brush. In this embodiment, the oil would then drip into the collection trays 588 and 588a and be removed through outlets 590 and 590a. The roller 560 could also receive centrifugal spinning as described above if desired. The oil/water separator 550 can be used in series or in parallel with other units, including a configuration where multiple units are used in series fashion along the same channel 574. Although it has been shown in preferred embodiments to move the sleeve 571 to engage the roller 560, the sleeve 571 could be held in

fixed position, and the roller 560 could be moved into the sleeve. ^'

The oil/water separators of the present invention, for example and not by way of limitation, 332 of FIGURE 11, can be used alone, or in series or parallel with other separators. For example, referring now to FIGURES 11 and 19, a plurality of oil/water separators 332 could be arranged in a cascading fashion where, e.g., and oil/water mixture is introduced into a first separator 332A through inlet 334A, and the water from outlet 348A of the first separator 332A is ported to the inlet 344B of a second separator 332B. The oil from outlet 352A of the first separator 332A is ported to the inlet 344C of a third separator 332C. Any water from outlet 348C of the third separator 332C is ported to the inlet 344B of the second separator 332B. Any oil from outlet 352B of the second separator 332B is ported to the inlet 344C of the third separator 332C. At this stage, the water end product is produced from the outlet 348B of the second separator 332B, and the oil end product is produced from the outlet 352C of the third separator 332C. If further processing is necessary, the cascade can continue as follows. The water from outlet 348B of the second separator 332B is ported to the inlet 344D of a fourth separator 332D. The oil from outlet 352C of the third separator 332C is ported to the inlet 344E of a fifth separator 332E. Any oil from outlet 352D of the fourth separator 332D is ported to the inlet 344E of the fifth separator 332E. Any water from outlet 348E of the fifth separator 332E is ported to the inlet 344D of the fourth separator 332D. At this stage, the water end product is produced from the outlet 348D of the fourth separator 332D, and the oil end product is produced from the outlet 352E of the fifth separator 332E.

The oil/water separators described herein can be suitably equipped with external housing and air filtration systems to contain and remove any hydrocarbon vapors within such housing to comply with any applicable air quality standards. The oil/water inlet and the oil and water outlets described herein would extend though the housing with a sealed fitting or other suitable means. The housings can also be equipped with discharge ports to allow for removal of any residual oil/water drippings. Additionally, the separation units could be heated in whole or in part with suitable heating means (not shown) to increase the viscosity of the oil/water mixture, or of the oil during the extrusion process. The separation units could also be cooled in whole or in part with suitable cooling means (not shown) to decrease the viscosity or volatility of the oil/water mixture, or of the oil during the extrusion process. The heating means could comprise, for example, individual heating elements embedded within the walls of the separation unit where the heating elements are controlled with thermocouples to allow for heating of all or selective portions of the separation unit. The cooling means could comprise, for example, individual cooling elements embedded within the walls of the separation unit where the cooling elements are controlled with thermocouples to allow for cooling of all or selective portions of the separation unit. Other suitable means for temperature control or regulation could include heating or cooling the air space surrounding the separation unit by, for example, directing hot or cool air into a housing member that surrounds the separation unit, or by providing temperature controlled air directly into desired portions of the separation unit.

Other configurations employing an oil affinity layer to remove oil from an oil/water mixture are

contemplated, and aspects of one embodiment may be employed in another embodiment. Additionally, these separators can be configured to be permanent structures at a facility routinely requiring separation of oil from water, or can be configured in a portable size, such as that which might fit on a flat bed truck, a barge, a trailer or the like.