corrugated plate interceptor (CPI)

Corrugated Plate Interceptors: A Powerful Tool for Oil-Water Separation in Environmental & Water Treatment

The presence of oil in wastewater poses a significant environmental threat, contaminating water bodies and harming aquatic life. Efficiently separating oil from water is crucial for protecting the environment and ensuring compliance with strict regulations. One effective technology employed for this purpose is the Corrugated Plate Interceptor (CPI).

Understanding CPI Technology

CPIs leverage the fundamental principle of density difference between oil and water. They utilize a series of inclined corrugated plates within a chamber to achieve efficient separation. The plates are arranged in a specific configuration, creating a labyrinthine path for the incoming wastewater. As the water flows through the plates, the oil, being less dense, rises to the top, while the denser water flows along the bottom.

Key Advantages of CPI Systems

• High Efficiency: CPIs can achieve remarkably high oil-water separation efficiencies, typically exceeding 95%.
• Low Operational Costs: Due to their simple design and minimal moving parts, CPIs require minimal maintenance and energy consumption.
• Versatile Applications: CPIs are adaptable to a wide range of applications, including industrial wastewater treatment, stormwater management, and oil-water separation in refineries and marine terminals.
• Compact Design: CPIs can be compactly designed, making them suitable for space-constrained locations.
• Reduced Environmental Impact: By effectively removing oil from wastewater, CPIs significantly reduce the environmental impact associated with oil spills and contamination.

How CPI Systems Work

1. Influent Wastewater: The wastewater containing oil enters the CPI chamber.
2. Flow Through Corrugated Plates: The water flows through the labyrinthine path created by the inclined corrugated plates.
3. Oil Separation: Due to the density difference, oil rises to the top, while water flows along the bottom.
4. Collection and Discharge: Oil is collected in a separate compartment and discharged for further treatment or disposal. The clarified water exits the CPI chamber for subsequent treatment processes.

Key Considerations for CPI Design and Selection

• Flow Rate: The volume of wastewater to be treated.
• Oil Concentration: The amount of oil present in the wastewater.
• Oil Type: The specific type of oil to be separated.
• Temperature: The operating temperature of the system.
• Environmental Regulations: Compliance with local regulations regarding oil discharge.

Conclusion:

CPIs are a powerful and versatile technology for oil-water separation in environmental and water treatment applications. Their efficiency, low operational costs, and environmental benefits make them an attractive choice for industries seeking to reduce their environmental impact and comply with regulatory requirements. By employing CPIs, we can effectively protect our waterways and safeguard the health of our planet.