EP0687330B1 - Floating skimmer device - Google Patents

Floating skimmer device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0687330B1
EP0687330B1 EP94904207A EP94904207A EP0687330B1 EP 0687330 B1 EP0687330 B1 EP 0687330B1 EP 94904207 A EP94904207 A EP 94904207A EP 94904207 A EP94904207 A EP 94904207A EP 0687330 B1 EP0687330 B1 EP 0687330B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
float
opening
skimmer device
lower lip
pump
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Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
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EP94904207A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0687330A1 (en
Inventor
Bernard Lechelon
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LECHELON Bernard
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Individual
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    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02B—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING
    • E02B15/00—Cleaning or keeping clear the surface of open water; Apparatus therefor
    • E02B15/04—Devices for cleaning or keeping clear the surface of open water from oil or like floating materials by separating or removing these materials
    • E02B15/10—Devices for removing the material from the surface
    • E02B15/106—Overflow skimmers with suction heads; suction heads

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a skimming device floating, intended for the recovery and transfer of layers surface of polluting materials or liquids, such as slicks of hydrocarbons, oil, grease, petrol or fuel, on a body of water, such as a river or a basin.
  • Such devices generally include a group motor-pump, floats and a central weir capable of containing the pollutants mixed with water.
  • Such devices are few effective, because when pumping the water / pollutant mixture, volumes considerable water is treated and pumped for a quantity of pollutants negligible. Therefore, such devices require storage of the water / pollutants mixture discharged into tanks or bulk tanks considerable for settling.
  • These devices include an adjustment system to pump only the surface layer of pollutants. This setting is carried out by hydrostatic balance between the pump flow and the entry of water into the central weir of the device. The more we pump, the more the central weir empties and therefore the device becomes lighter, and the water inlet goes up towards the surface layer of pollutants. But, this setting is approximate, large volumes of water are treated, and the draft due to the central tank is such that it limits the use of these devices at depths greater than 50 cm (see for example the DESMI device, model 250).
  • the ACME PRODUCTS COMPANY skimming device models 39T and FS 300.A has openings on the lateral surface of a float, a motor-pump unit and a means of mechanical adjustment of the skimmer consisting of several screws distributed at the top of a circular float, said screws lowering or raising a ballast plate located under the float. The adjustment of these screws allows position the float so that the lower lip of the openings reaches the surface layer of pollutants. Layer surface of pollutants then passes through said openings up to a central bowl level with the suction opening of the pump.
  • This skimming device has many advantages by compared to conventional pumping devices because the setting is more end and the draft is weak.
  • this device is not very stable, because during variations in weight of the discharge pipe due to variations in flow the pump, the float tilts and more water is pours into the bowl which makes the fine adjustment ineffective. It is besides particularly difficult to achieve this adjustment because the multiplicity of set points. Also when you want move the skimming device over the water, greater amount of water flows into the bowl due to the tilting of the float.
  • document FR-A-1 349 008 describes a device skimmer comprising a collecting container mounted on floats via a gimbal which allows it to always be placed in a desired position relative to the surface of the water.
  • the purpose of the present invention is to provide a device floating skim which eliminates the aforementioned drawbacks, which is light, stable, low draft, and easy to adjust selective.
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a device floating skim that can be moved over a body of water while keeping good selectivity of the skimmer.
  • the present invention relates to a skimming device floating, intended for the recovery and transfer of layers surface of pollutants on a body of water, comprising an engine and a pump mounted on a float made for example of foam polyurethane, a flexible tubular evacuation pipe for pollutants attached at one end to the outlet of the pump, the other end moving away from the float, for example towards a bank, tank or floating support, at least one opening formed on the lateral surface of the float, preferably at near its external bottom and opening into a bowl located at plumb with the suction port of the pump, and means for adjustment of the level of immersion of said opening, characterized by the opening is defined by a lower lip extending in a horizontal direction and that the adjustment means are able to tilt the float about an axis parallel to said lower lip, so that the latter is at the level of the surface layer of pollutants.
  • the opening is less than 10 cm from the external bottom of the float.
  • a plurality of openings can be provided aligned in a horizontal direction.
  • the adjustment means comprise a lever articulated on said float, preferably in the middle of the side edges of the float, and suitable for move between a vertical rest position and inclined operation.
  • means are provided for blocking the the sink.
  • the lever is foldable for easy storage and transport of the device.
  • This flat range allows the operator to visualize easily the rise in the water level up to the lower lip of the opening when it acts on the adjustment means, so as not to leave pass only the surface layer of pollutants inside the float.
  • the lower lip of the opening extends towards the bowl by a recess, preferably substantially vertical, followed of a flow ramp.
  • the layer superficial pollutants is accelerated at the level of the lower lip and more easily enters the float.
  • This particular embodiment stems from the discovery surprising that when we make a step followed by this recess, the surface layer of pollutants is drawn towards the interior of the float. It has been found experimentally that a vortex occurs of water in the recess and that the surface layer of pollutants is flush with this recess due to the higher viscosity of the pollutants compared to that of water.
  • the float has an upper safety float and a float lower weir, integral with each other and between which is formed said opening, said upper safety float comprising a hole through the vertical of the bowl, the pump being mounted in overhang of said through hole and preferably in the vicinity of the bottom of the bowl, for example about 1 cm.
  • the upper safety float is housed inside the lower float weir.
  • Such a safety float ensures that the device according to the invention remains in a range of inclinations which do not does not endanger the overall balance of the device.
  • the axis of the pump outlet orifice is perpendicular to the direction of the lower lip.
  • the device is returned to the optimal operating position.
  • the increase in the amount of water in the bowl causes the pump flow rate to increase and therefore the increase in the weight of the flexible tubular pipe.
  • the float has an engine protection flange against splashes.
  • the float has gripping means, such as handles side, and remote control means of the float, such as sockets and cables.
  • the sockets are advantageously located in the lower part of the lower float weir, so as not to disturb the balance of the skimming device.
  • the float comprises in front of the opening, protective means, such as bumpers, and horizontal deflectors hinged on both sides and other than the opening between an open position, in which the deflectors make an angle of 45 ° to the lower lip of the opening, and a closed position, in which the deflectors are folded down in front of the opening, said deflectors each supporting a vertical weighted skirt.
  • protective means such as bumpers
  • horizontal deflectors hinged on both sides and other than the opening between an open position, in which the deflectors make an angle of 45 ° to the lower lip of the opening, and a closed position, in which the deflectors are folded down in front of the opening, said deflectors each supporting a vertical weighted skirt.
  • the skirt When the float is placed on the water, the skirt is in submerged part.
  • the latter is made of waterproof fabric types of pollutants recovered.
  • the ballast of the skirt is located advantageously in a hem at the lower end of the skirt, said ballast being a function of the weight of the pump unit, so that the counterweight of the lever remains operative regardless of the pump unit selected.
  • a anti-vibration device such as a coated rubber plate of a polymer resin, is interposed between the upper float of safety and the lower float weir.
  • profiled form floating sleeves are mounted along flexible tubular delivery line to provide minimum resistance when moving the skimming device to the surface of the water.
  • the float has an internal metal frame on which are fixed the adjustment means, the deflectors and / or means for fixing the motor and pump.
  • a pump capable of operating in cavitation and which can turn dry without risk of overheating.
  • different types of engines such as heat engines and air engines.
  • a through hole is made in the center of the float safety upper 5 so that the suction port of the pump 3 either directly above the bowl 7.
  • Floating sleeves 9 are mounted along the pipe flexible tubular 8.
  • the lower spillway float 6 has handles side 10, as well as sockets (not shown in the figures) for remote control, for example using cables.
  • Part 6b of the lower weir float 6 has a flat area 11 inclined relative to the horizontal, said area 11 being limited at its upper part by the lower lip 12 of an opening made in the lower weir float 6.
  • a bumper 13 is mounted in front of said opening on the lower float weir 6 and it is fixed on the parts side 6c of the lower weir float 6.
  • Two deflectors 14 horizontal are articulated on the lateral parts 6c and support each a weighted vertical skirt 15 made of fabric impermeable to pollutants.
  • Part 5 of the upper float safety 5 is recessed with respect to the lower lip 12 so that the operator has greater visibility of the lower lip 12.
  • FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the float 4.
  • the lower lip 12 is situated just below the water level 18.
  • the water level 18 comprises a surface layer of pollutants 19 which is accelerated at the level of the lower lip 12 due to the difference in height between said lower lip 12 and the crest 20 of the recess 21 formed in the part 6b of the lower weir float 6.
  • a vortex of water is formed in the recess 21 and the surface layer of pollutants 19 is entrained along the ramp flow 22 to the flat-bottomed bowl 7.
  • the lower weir float 6 has an armature internal not shown, on which the handles 10 are fixed, the axis 17 of the lever 16, the bumpers 13 and the deflectors 14.
  • the upper safety float 5 can also have an internal metal frame.
  • skimming device tilt the lever on the side opposite the opening and push the float down until the lower lip reaches the surface layer of pollutants, by pushing on the handles or the lever.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Removal Of Floating Material (AREA)
  • Structures Of Non-Positive Displacement Pumps (AREA)
  • Cleaning Or Clearing Of The Surface Of Open Water (AREA)
  • Spinning Methods And Devices For Manufacturing Artificial Fibers (AREA)
  • Adjustment Of Camera Lenses (AREA)
  • Filters For Electric Vacuum Cleaners (AREA)
  • Cyclones (AREA)

Abstract

A floating skimmer device for recovering and removing layers of pollutants on the surface of a body of water. The device comprises an engine (2) and a pump (3) mounted on a float (4), a flexible tubular hose (8) for removing the pollutants, said hose being connected at one end to the outlet (3a) of the pump (3), an opening formed in the side surface of the float (4), preferably near the bottom thereof, and opening into a trough arranged directly below the suction port of the pump (3), and an assembly for adjusting the submerged depth of the opening. The opening is defined by a horizontal lower lip (12) and the adjustment assembly can tilt the float (4) about an axis parallel thereto so that said lower lip (12) is level with the surface layer of pollutants.

Description

La présente invention concerne un dispositif d'écrémage flottant, destiné à la récupération et au transvasement de couches superficielles de matières ou de liquides polluants, telles que des nappes d'hydrocarbures, d'huile, de graisse, d'essence ou de fuel, sur un plan d'eau, tel qu'une rivière ou un bassin.The present invention relates to a skimming device floating, intended for the recovery and transfer of layers surface of polluting materials or liquids, such as slicks of hydrocarbons, oil, grease, petrol or fuel, on a body of water, such as a river or a basin.

On connaít de nombreux dispositifs flottants portatifs permettant la récupération et le pompage de couches superficielles de polluants dont la densité est inférieure à celle de l'eau.We know many portable floating devices allowing the recovery and pumping of surface layers of pollutants with a density lower than that of water.

De tels dispositifs comportent en général un groupe moto-pompe, des flotteurs et un déversoir central apte à contenir les polluants mélangés avec l'eau. Cependant, de tels dispositifs sont peu efficaces, car lors du pompage du mélange eau/polluants, des volumes d'eau considérables sont traités et pompés pour une quantité de polluants négligeable. Par conséquent, de tels dispositifs nécessitent le stockage du mélange eau/polluants évacué dans des bacs ou des citernes de volume considérable pour la décantation.Such devices generally include a group motor-pump, floats and a central weir capable of containing the pollutants mixed with water. However, such devices are few effective, because when pumping the water / pollutant mixture, volumes considerable water is treated and pumped for a quantity of pollutants negligible. Therefore, such devices require storage of the water / pollutants mixture discharged into tanks or bulk tanks considerable for settling.

Ces dispositifs comportent un système de réglage pour ne pomper que la seule couche superficielle de polluants. Ce réglage s'effectue par équilibre hydrostatique entre le débit de la pompe et l'entrée d'eau dans le déversoir central du dispositif. Plus on pompe, plus le déversoir central se vide et donc le dispositif s'allège, et l'entrée d'eau remonte vers la couche superficielle de polluants. Mais, ce réglage est approximatif, d'importants volumes d'eau sont traités, et le tirant d'eau dû au réservoir central est tel qu'il limite l'utilisation de ces dispositifs à des profondeurs supérieures à 50 cm (voir par exemple le dispositif DESMI, modèle 250).These devices include an adjustment system to pump only the surface layer of pollutants. This setting is carried out by hydrostatic balance between the pump flow and the entry of water into the central weir of the device. The more we pump, the more the central weir empties and therefore the device becomes lighter, and the water inlet goes up towards the surface layer of pollutants. But, this setting is approximate, large volumes of water are treated, and the draft due to the central tank is such that it limits the use of these devices at depths greater than 50 cm (see for example the DESMI device, model 250).

On sait également réaliser des dispositifs d'écrémage flottants pour récupérer et évacuer des couches superficielles de polluants.We also know how to make skimming devices floating to recover and evacuate surface layers of pollutants.

Le dispositif d'écrémage ACME PRODUCTS COMPANY, modèles 39T et FS 300.A comporte des ouvertures ménagées sur la surface latérale d'un flotteur, un groupe moto-pompe et un moyen de réglage mécanique de l'écrémeur consistant en plusieurs vis réparties au sommet d'un flotteur circulaire, lesdites vis faisant descendre ou monter une plaque de lest située sous le flotteur. Le réglage de ces vis permet de positionner le flotteur de sorte que la lèvre inférieure des ouvertures atteigne la couche superficielle de polluants. La couche superficielle de polluants passe alors à travers lesdites ouvertures jusqu'à une cuvette centrale à l'aplomb de l'orifice d'aspiration de la pompe. Ce dispositif d'écrémage comporte de nombreux avantages par rapport aux dispositifs de pompage classiques car le réglage est plus fin et le tirant d'eau est faible.The ACME PRODUCTS COMPANY skimming device, models 39T and FS 300.A has openings on the lateral surface of a float, a motor-pump unit and a means of mechanical adjustment of the skimmer consisting of several screws distributed at the top of a circular float, said screws lowering or raising a ballast plate located under the float. The adjustment of these screws allows position the float so that the lower lip of the openings reaches the surface layer of pollutants. Layer surface of pollutants then passes through said openings up to a central bowl level with the suction opening of the pump. This skimming device has many advantages by compared to conventional pumping devices because the setting is more end and the draft is weak.

En revanche, ce dispositif est peu stable, car lors des variations de poids du tuyau d'évacuation dues aux variations de débit de la pompe, le flotteur bascule et une plus grande quantité d'eau se déverse dans la cuvette ce qui rend le réglage fin inopérant. Il est d'ailleurs particulièrement difficile de réaliser ce réglage du fait de la multiplicité des points de réglage. En outre lorsque l'on veut déplacer le dispositif d'écrémage sur le plan d'eau, une plus grande quantité d'eau se déverse dans la cuvette du fait du basculement du flotteur.However, this device is not very stable, because during variations in weight of the discharge pipe due to variations in flow the pump, the float tilts and more water is pours into the bowl which makes the fine adjustment ineffective. It is besides particularly difficult to achieve this adjustment because the multiplicity of set points. Also when you want move the skimming device over the water, greater amount of water flows into the bowl due to the tilting of the float.

Par ailleurs, le document FR-A-1 349 008 décrit un dispositif d'écrémage comportant un récipient collecteur monté sur des flotteurs par l'intermédiaire d'un cardan qui lui permet de se placer toujours dans une position voulue par rapport à la surface de l'eau.Furthermore, document FR-A-1 349 008 describes a device skimmer comprising a collecting container mounted on floats via a gimbal which allows it to always be placed in a desired position relative to the surface of the water.

Néanmoins, ce dispositif ne comporte pas de moyens de réglage simples qui permettent d'écrémer de manière sélective des polluants sur un plan d'eau.However, this device does not include adjustment means simple to selectively skim pollutants on a body of water.

Le but de la présente invention est de proposer un dispositif d'écrémage flottant qui élimine les inconvénients précités, qui est léger, stable, d'un tirant d'eau faible, et de réglage simple et sélectif.The purpose of the present invention is to provide a device floating skim which eliminates the aforementioned drawbacks, which is light, stable, low draft, and easy to adjust selective.

Un autre but de l'invention est de proposer un dispositif d'écrémage flottant que l'on peut déplacer sur un plan d'eau tout en gardant une bonne sélectivité de l'écrémeur.Another object of the invention is to propose a device floating skim that can be moved over a body of water while keeping good selectivity of the skimmer.

La présente invention a pour objet un dispositif d'écrémage flottant, destiné à la récupération et au transvasement de couches superficielles de polluants sur un plan d'eau, comportant un moteur et une pompe montés sur un flotteur réalisé par exemple en mousse de polyuréthane, une conduite tubulaire flexible d'évacuation des polluants fixée à l'une de ses extrémités à l'orifice de sortie de la pompe, l'autre extrémité s'éloignant du flotteur, par exemple vers une berge, un réservoir ou un support flottant, au moins une ouverture ménagée sur la surface latérale du flotteur, de préférence au voisinage de son fond externe et débouchant dans une cuvette située à l'aplomb de l'orifice d'aspiration de la pompe, et des moyens de réglage du niveau d'immersion de ladite ouverture, caractérisé par le fait que l'ouverture est définie par une lèvre inférieure s'étendant suivant une direction horizontale et que les moyens de réglage sont aptes à faire basculer le flotteur autour d'un axe parallèle à ladite lèvre inférieure, de sorte que cette dernière se situe au niveau de la couche superficielle de polluants.The present invention relates to a skimming device floating, intended for the recovery and transfer of layers surface of pollutants on a body of water, comprising an engine and a pump mounted on a float made for example of foam polyurethane, a flexible tubular evacuation pipe for pollutants attached at one end to the outlet of the pump, the other end moving away from the float, for example towards a bank, tank or floating support, at least one opening formed on the lateral surface of the float, preferably at near its external bottom and opening into a bowl located at plumb with the suction port of the pump, and means for adjustment of the level of immersion of said opening, characterized by the opening is defined by a lower lip extending in a horizontal direction and that the adjustment means are able to tilt the float about an axis parallel to said lower lip, so that the latter is at the level of the surface layer of pollutants.

Dans un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, l'ouverture est à moins de 10 cm du fond externe du flotteur.In a particular embodiment of the invention, the opening is less than 10 cm from the external bottom of the float.

Bien entendu, on peut prévoir une pluralité d'ouvertures alignées suivant une direction horizontale. Of course, a plurality of openings can be provided aligned in a horizontal direction.

Dans un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention, les moyens de réglage comportent un levier articulé sur ledit flotteur, de préférence au milieu des bords latéraux du flotteur, et apte à se déplacer entre une position de repos verticale et des positions de fonctionnement inclinées.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the adjustment means comprise a lever articulated on said float, preferably in the middle of the side edges of the float, and suitable for move between a vertical rest position and inclined operation.

Il est prévu, avantageusement, des moyens de blocage du levier.Advantageously, means are provided for blocking the the sink.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, le levier est pliable pour faciliter le rangement et le transport du dispositif.In another particular embodiment of invention, the lever is foldable for easy storage and transport of the device.

La lèvre inférieure de l'ouverture se prolonge avantageusement vers l'extérieur du flotteur par une plage plane inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale, de préférence avec un angle compris entre environ 5 et 10 degrés, de sorte que lorsque les moyens de réglage sont en position de repos verticale, la plage est partiellement située sous le niveau d'eau.The lower lip of the opening extends advantageously towards the outside of the float by an inclined flat surface with respect to the horizontal, preferably with an angle between about 5 and 10 degrees, so that when the adjustment means are in the vertical rest position, the deck is partially located under the water level.

Cette plage plane permet à l'opérateur de visualiser facilement la montée du niveau d'eau jusqu'à la lèvre inférieure de l'ouverture lorsqu'il agit sur les moyens de réglage, afin de ne laisser passer que la couche superficielle de polluants à l'intérieur du flotteur.This flat range allows the operator to visualize easily the rise in the water level up to the lower lip of the opening when it acts on the adjustment means, so as not to leave pass only the surface layer of pollutants inside the float.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, la lèvre inférieure de l'ouverture se prolonge vers la cuvette par un décrochement, de préférence sensiblement vertical, suivi d'une rampe d'écoulement.In another particular embodiment of the invention, the lower lip of the opening extends towards the bowl by a recess, preferably substantially vertical, followed of a flow ramp.

Le polluant plus visqueux, a tendance à s'éloigner du dispositif d'écrémage du fait des vibrations provoquées par le moteur.The more viscous pollutant tends to move away from the skimming device due to vibrations caused by the engine.

Mais, du fait de la différence de niveau entre la lèvre inférieure de l'ouverture et la rampe d'écoulement, la couche superficielle de polluants est accélérée au niveau de la lèvre inférieure et pénètre plus facilement dans le flotteur.But, due to the difference in level between the lip bottom of the opening and the flow ramp, the layer superficial pollutants is accelerated at the level of the lower lip and more easily enters the float.

Dans un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, un évidement est ménagé entre ledit décrochement et ladite rampe d'écoulement, de préférence partiellement en retrait dans le décrochement vertical, ledit évidement comportant une crête à laquelle vient se raccorder une partie sensiblement horizontale de la rampe d'écoulement.In a particular embodiment of the invention, a recess is formed between said recess and said ramp flow, preferably partially set back in the recess vertical, said recess comprising a crest to which comes connect a substantially horizontal part of the flow ramp.

Ce mode de réalisation particulier découle de la découverte surprenante que lorsqu'on réalise un décrochement suivi de cet évidement, la couche superficielle de polluants est attirée vers l'intérieur du flotteur. On a constaté expérimentalement qu'il se produit un tourbillon d'eau dans l'évidement et que la couche superficielle de polluants affleure cet évidement du fait de la plus grande viscosité des polluants par rapport à celle de l'eau.This particular embodiment stems from the discovery surprising that when we make a step followed by this recess, the surface layer of pollutants is drawn towards the interior of the float. It has been found experimentally that a vortex occurs of water in the recess and that the surface layer of pollutants is flush with this recess due to the higher viscosity of the pollutants compared to that of water.

Selon un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention, la cuvette du dispositif d'écrémage flottant est à fond plat, de préférence légèrement incliné en direction de la lèvre inférieure.According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the float skimmer bowl is flat bottom, preferably slightly inclined towards the lower lip.

Dans un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, le flotteur comporte un flotteur supérieur de sécurité et un flotteur inférieur déversoir, solidaires l'un de l'autre et entre lesquels est ménagée ladite ouverture, ledit flotteur supérieur de sécurité comportant un trou traversant à la verticale de la cuvette, la pompe étant montée en surplomb dudit trou traversant et de préférence au voisinage du fond de la cuvette, par exemple à environ 1 cm.In a particular embodiment of the invention, the float has an upper safety float and a float lower weir, integral with each other and between which is formed said opening, said upper safety float comprising a hole through the vertical of the bowl, the pump being mounted in overhang of said through hole and preferably in the vicinity of the bottom of the bowl, for example about 1 cm.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, le flotteur supérieur de sécurité est logé à l'intérieur du flotteur inférieur déversoir.In another particular embodiment of the invention, the upper safety float is housed inside the lower float weir.

Un tel flotteur de sécurité permet de s'assurer que le dispositif selon l'invention demeure dans une gamme d'inclinaisons qui ne met pas en danger l'équilibre d'ensemble du dispositif.Such a safety float ensures that the device according to the invention remains in a range of inclinations which do not does not endanger the overall balance of the device.

Avantageusement, l'axe de l'orifice de sortie de la pompe est perpendiculaire à la direction de la lèvre inférieure.Advantageously, the axis of the pump outlet orifice is perpendicular to the direction of the lower lip.

Dans un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, la conduite tubulaire flexible passe sur le sommet du flotteur à l'opposé de l'ouverture du dispositif, et de préférence dans une cavité ménagée dans le flotteur, l'axe de ladite cavité étant confondu avec celui de l'orifice de sortie de la pompe.In a particular embodiment of the invention, the flexible tubular pipe runs over the top of the float opposite the opening of the device, and preferably in a cavity formed in the float, the axis of said cavity being coincident with that of the pump outlet.

Du fait que la conduite tubulaire flexible passe sur le sommet du flotteur et à l'opposé de l'ouverture du dispositif, on peut facilement démonter le groupe moto-pompe du dispositif d'écrémage.Because the flexible tubular conduit runs over the top of the float and opposite the opening of the device, we can easily remove the motor-pump unit from the skimming device.

En outre, si une grande quantité d'eau rentre dans le flotteur, par exemple à cause d'une vague, la cuvette est davantage alimentée en eau, ce qui entraíne son basculement et l'abaissement de la lèvre inférieure de l'ouverture par rapport au niveau de l'eau.In addition, if a large amount of water enters the float, for example due to a wave, the bowl is more supplied with water, which causes it to tip over and lower the lower lip of the opening relative to the water level.

Apparaít alors le risque que le dispositif demeure incliné du fait qu'une quantité croissante d'eau s'introduit dans la cuvette et accentue le déséquilibre.Appears then the risk that the device remains tilted the fact that an increasing amount of water enters the bowl and accentuates the imbalance.

Grace à la disposition de la conduite tubulaire flexible au somment du flotteur et à l'opposé de l'ouverture du dispositif, le dispositif est ramené en position de fonctionnement optimal. Thanks to the arrangement of the flexible tubular pipe at top of the float and opposite to the opening of the device, the device is returned to the optimal operating position.

En effet, l'augmentation de la quantité d'eau dans la cuvette provoque l'augmentation du débit de la pompe et donc l'augmentation du poids de la conduite tubulaire flexible.Indeed, the increase in the amount of water in the bowl causes the pump flow rate to increase and therefore the increase in the weight of the flexible tubular pipe.

De ce fait, la lèvre inférieure de l'ouverture se soulève, ce qui entraíne une réduction du débit d'entrée d'eau.As a result, the lower lip of the opening lifts, which results in a reduction of the water inlet flow.

On a donc un système automatique de régulation en cas de variations du débit d'eau à l'entrée du flotteur.So we have an automatic regulation system in case of variations in water flow at the inlet of the float.

Dans un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention, le flotteur supérieur de sécurité est en retrait par rapport à la lèvre inférieure de l'ouverture ménagée dans le flotteur inférieur déversoir, afin d'augmenter la visibilité de la lèvre inférieure lorsque l'opérateur agit sur les moyens de réglage.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the upper safety float is set back from the lip bottom of the opening in the lower weir float, to increase the visibility of the lower lip when the operator acts on the adjustment means.

Avantageusement, le flotteur a un volume tel qu'en cas de remplissage complet de la cuvette, la pompe étant à l'arrêt, le dispositif d'écrémage reste émergé.Advantageously, the float has a volume such that in the event of complete filling of the bowl, the pump being stopped, the skimming device remains emerged.

Dans un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, le flotteur comporte une collerette de protection du moteur contre les éclaboussures.In a particular embodiment of the invention, the float has an engine protection flange against splashes.

Dans un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention, le flotteur comporte des moyens de préhension, tels que des poignées latérales, et des moyens de commande à distance du flotteur, tels que des prises et des câbles.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the float has gripping means, such as handles side, and remote control means of the float, such as sockets and cables.

Les prises sont avantageusement situées en partie basse du flotteur inférieur déversoir, pour ne pas perturber l'équilibre du dispositif d'écrémage.The sockets are advantageously located in the lower part of the lower float weir, so as not to disturb the balance of the skimming device.

Dans un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, le flotteur comporte devant l'ouverture, des moyens de protection, tels que des pare-chocs, et des déflecteurs horizontaux articulés de part et d'autre de l'ouverture entre une position ouverte, dans laquelle les déflecteurs font un angle de 45° par rapport à la lèvre inférieure de l'ouverture, et une position fermée, dans laquelle les déflecteurs sont rabattus devant l'ouverture, lesdits déflecteurs supportant chacun une jupe verticale lestée.In a particular embodiment of the invention, the float comprises in front of the opening, protective means, such as bumpers, and horizontal deflectors hinged on both sides and other than the opening between an open position, in which the deflectors make an angle of 45 ° to the lower lip of the opening, and a closed position, in which the deflectors are folded down in front of the opening, said deflectors each supporting a vertical weighted skirt.

Lorsque le flotteur est posé sur l'eau, la jupe est en partie immergée. Cette dernière est réalisée en tissu imperméable aux types de polluants récupérés. Le lest de la jupe est situé avantageusement dans un ourlet à l'extrémité inférieure de la jupe, ledit lest étant fonction du poids du groupe moto-pompe, de sorte que le contrepoids du levier reste opérant quel que soit le groupe moto-pompe choisi. When the float is placed on the water, the skirt is in submerged part. The latter is made of waterproof fabric types of pollutants recovered. The ballast of the skirt is located advantageously in a hem at the lower end of the skirt, said ballast being a function of the weight of the pump unit, so that the counterweight of the lever remains operative regardless of the pump unit selected.

Dans un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, un dispositif anti-vibrations, tel qu'une plaque en caoutchouc enrobée d'une résine polymère, est intercalé entre le flotteur supérieur de sécurité et le flotteur inférieur déversoir.In a particular embodiment of the invention, a anti-vibration device, such as a coated rubber plate of a polymer resin, is interposed between the upper float of safety and the lower float weir.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, des manchons flottants à forme profilée sont montés le long de la conduite tubulaire flexible de refoulement, afin d'offrir une résistance minimum lors du déplacement du dispositif d'écrémage à la surface de l'eau.In another particular embodiment of the invention, profiled form floating sleeves are mounted along flexible tubular delivery line to provide minimum resistance when moving the skimming device to the surface of the water.

Dans un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention, le flotteur comporte une armature interne métallique sur laquelle sont fixés les moyens de réglage, les déflecteurs et/ou des moyens de fixation du moteur et de la pompe.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the float has an internal metal frame on which are fixed the adjustment means, the deflectors and / or means for fixing the motor and pump.

On choisit de préférence une pompe pouvant fonctionner en cavitation et qui puisse tourner à sec sans risque d'échauffement. Selon les conditions d'emploi et de sécurité, on peut utiliser différents types de moteurs tels que des moteurs thermiques et des moteurs à air.It is preferable to choose a pump capable of operating in cavitation and which can turn dry without risk of overheating. Depending on the conditions of use and safety, different types of engines such as heat engines and air engines.

On utilise de préférence le moteur à un régime élevé, autorisant un débit supérieur au débit maximal d'entrée d'eau dans le flotteur, de sorte que le mélange eau/polluants soit immédiatement aspiré par la pompe.The engine is preferably used at high speed, authorizing a flow greater than the maximum flow of water entering the float, so that the water / pollutant mixture is immediately sucked by the pump.

Pour mieux faire comprendre l'objet de l'invention, on va en décrire ci-après, à titre d'exemples purement illustratifs et non limitatifs, deux modes de réalisation représentés sur le dessin annexé dans lequel :

  • la figure 1 est une vue en perspective du dispositif d'écrémage flottant selon l'invention, le levier étant dans une première position de fonctionnement inclinée;
  • la figure 2 est une vue en coupe latérale du dispositif d'écrémage flottant selon l'invention, le levier étant dans la position de repos verticale;
  • la figure 3 est une vue en coupe latérale du dispositif d'écrémage flottant selon la présente invention, le levier étant dans la première position de fonctionnement inclinée ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue en coupe partielle du dispositif d'écrémage flottant selon la présente invention, le levier étant dans une deuxième position de fonctionnement inclinée; et
  • la figure 5 est une vue partielle en coupe du flotteur selon la présente invention.
To better understand the object of the invention, there will be described below, by way of purely illustrative and nonlimiting examples, two embodiments shown in the accompanying drawing in which:
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of the floating skimming device according to the invention, the lever being in a first inclined operating position;
  • Figure 2 is a side sectional view of the floating skimming device according to the invention, the lever being in the vertical rest position;
  • Figure 3 is a side sectional view of the floating skimming device according to the present invention, the lever being in the first inclined operating position;
  • Figure 4 is a partial sectional view of the floating skimming device according to the present invention, the lever being in a second inclined operating position; and
  • Figure 5 is a partial sectional view of the float according to the present invention.

Sur les figures 1 à 4, on voit un dispositif d'écrémage flottant 1 qui comporte un groupe moto-pompe, comprenant un moteur 2 et une pompe 3, monté sur un ensemble flottant 4 désigné ci-après par le terme de "flotteur". Le flotteur 4 comporte un flotteur supérieur de sécurité 5 et un flotteur inférieur déversoir 6, le flotteur supérieur de sécurité 5 étant logé à l'intérieur du flotteur inférieur déversoir 6, de sorte qu'un espace de l'ordre de 1 cm subsiste entre le fond du flotteur supérieur de sécurité 5 et une cuvette 7 ménagée sur le flotteur inférieur déversoir 6.Figures 1 to 4 show a skimming device floating 1 which comprises a motor-pump group, comprising a motor 2 and a pump 3, mounted on a floating assembly 4 designated below by the term "float". The float 4 includes an upper float of safety 5 and a lower weir float 6, the upper float of safety 5 being housed inside the lower weir float 6, so that a space of the order of 1 cm remains between the bottom of the float safety superior 5 and a bowl 7 formed on the float lower weir 6.

Un trou traversant est ménagé au centre du flotteur supérieur de sécurité 5 de sorte que l'orifice d'aspiration de la pompe 3 soit à l'aplomb de la cuvette 7.A through hole is made in the center of the float safety upper 5 so that the suction port of the pump 3 either directly above the bowl 7.

L'orifice de sortie 3a de la pompe 3 est connecté à une conduite tubulaire flexible 8 qui s'étend le long d'un plan d'eau. La conduite tubulaire flexible 8 passe au-dessus du bord supérieur 6a du flotteur inférieur déversoir 6 et à l'opposé de l'ouverture du dispositif, ce qui permet d'assurer l'autorégulation décrite plus haut.The outlet 3a of the pump 3 is connected to a flexible tubular conduit 8 which extends along a body of water. The flexible tubular conduit 8 passes over the upper edge 6a of the lower float weir 6 and opposite the opening of the device, which ensures the self-regulation described above.

Des manchons flottants 9 sont montés le long de la conduite tubulaire flexible 8.Floating sleeves 9 are mounted along the pipe flexible tubular 8.

Le flotteur inférieur déversoir 6 comporte des poignées latérales 10, ainsi que des prises (non représentées sur les figures) pour la commande à distance, par exemple à l'aide de câbles.The lower spillway float 6 has handles side 10, as well as sockets (not shown in the figures) for remote control, for example using cables.

La partie 6b du flotteur inférieur déversoir 6 comporte une plage plane 11 inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale, ladite plage 11 étant limitée à sa partie supérieure par la lèvre inférieure 12 d'une ouverture ménagée dans le flotteur inférieur déversoir 6.Part 6b of the lower weir float 6 has a flat area 11 inclined relative to the horizontal, said area 11 being limited at its upper part by the lower lip 12 of an opening made in the lower weir float 6.

Un pare-chocs 13 est monté devant ladite ouverture sur le flotteur inférieur déversoir 6 et il est fixé sur les parties latérales 6c du flotteur inférieur déversoir 6. Deux déflecteurs 14 horizontaux sont articulés sur les parties latérales 6c et supportent chacun une jupe 15 verticale lestée réalisée en tissu imperméable aux polluants.A bumper 13 is mounted in front of said opening on the lower float weir 6 and it is fixed on the parts side 6c of the lower weir float 6. Two deflectors 14 horizontal are articulated on the lateral parts 6c and support each a weighted vertical skirt 15 made of fabric impermeable to pollutants.

Un levier 16 est articulé sur un axe horizontal 17 entre les deux flotteurs.A lever 16 is articulated on a horizontal axis 17 between the two floats.

La partie 5a du flotteur supérieur de sécurité 5 est en retrait par rapport à la lèvre inférieure 12, de sorte que l'opérateur ait une plus grande visibilité de la lèvre inférieure 12.Part 5 of the upper float safety 5 is recessed with respect to the lower lip 12 so that the operator has greater visibility of the lower lip 12.

La figure 5 est une vue à plus grande échelle du flotteur 4.FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the float 4.

La lèvre inférieure 12 est située juste sous le niveau d'eau 18. Le niveau d'eau 18 comporte une couche superficielle de polluants 19 qui est accélérée au niveau de la lèvre inférieure 12 du fait de la différence d'hauteur entre ladite lèvre inférieure 12 et la crête 20 de l'évidement 21 ménagé dans la partie 6b du flotteur inférieur déversoir 6. Un tourbillon d'eau se forme dans l'évidement 21 et la couche superficielle de polluants 19 est entraínée le long de la rampe d'écoulement 22 vers la cuvette 7 à fond plat.The lower lip 12 is situated just below the water level 18. The water level 18 comprises a surface layer of pollutants 19 which is accelerated at the level of the lower lip 12 due to the difference in height between said lower lip 12 and the crest 20 of the recess 21 formed in the part 6b of the lower weir float 6. A vortex of water is formed in the recess 21 and the surface layer of pollutants 19 is entrained along the ramp flow 22 to the flat-bottomed bowl 7.

Le flotteur inférieur déversoir 6 comporte une armature interne non représentée, sur laquelle sont fixées les poignées 10, l'axe 17 du levier 16, les pare-chocs 13 et les déflecteurs 14.The lower weir float 6 has an armature internal not shown, on which the handles 10 are fixed, the axis 17 of the lever 16, the bumpers 13 and the deflectors 14.

Bien entendu, le flotteur supérieur de sécurité 5 peut également comporter une armature métallique interne.Of course, the upper safety float 5 can also have an internal metal frame.

On va maintenant décrire le fonctionnement de ce dispositif d'écrémage flottant.We will now describe the operation of this device floating skim.

On transporte et on pose le dispositif d'écrémage flottant sur un plan d'eau, le levier étant dans sa position de repos verticale, puis on met en route le moteur et on bascule le levier vers l'ouverture jusqu'à ce que la lèvre inférieure atteigne la couche superficielle de polluants.Transport and install the floating skimming device on a body of water, the lever being in its vertical rest position, then start the engine and tilt the lever towards the opening until the lower lip reaches the surface layer of pollutants.

Si l'on utilise le dispositif d'écrémage en déplacement, on bascule le levier du côté opposé à l'ouverture et on enfonce le flotteur jusqu'à ce que la lèvre inférieure atteigne la couche superficielle de polluants, en exerçant une poussée sur les poignées ou le levier.If the skimming device is used on the move, tilt the lever on the side opposite the opening and push the float down until the lower lip reaches the surface layer of pollutants, by pushing on the handles or the lever.

Lors du transport du dispositif d'écrémage, on peut avantageusement replier devant l'ouverture les jupes verticales afin de la protéger.When transporting the skimming device, you can advantageously fold the vertical skirts in front of the opening in order to protect her.

Claims (11)

  1. A floating skimmer device for recovering and removing layers of pollutants on the surface of a body of water (18), said device comprising an engine (2) and a pump (3) mounted on a float (4), a flexible tubular hose (8) for removing the pollutants, said hose being connected at one end to the outlet (3a) of the pump (3), an opening formed in the side surface of the float (4), preferably near the bottom thereof, and opening into a trough arranged directly below the suction port of the pump (3), and an assembly for adjusting the submerged depth of the opening. The opening is defined by a horizontal lower lip (12) and the adjustment assembly can tilt the float (4) about an axis parallel thereto so that said lower lip (12) is level with the surface layer of pollutants.
  2. Floating skimmer device of claim 1, wherein the adjustment assembly is a lever (16) articulated on the said float (4), preferably at the midle of the side walls of the float (4), and able to rotate between a vertical stand-by position and the inclined operation positions.
  3. Floating skimmer device according to anyone of the preceding claims, wherein the lower lip (12) of the opening is extended rear ward to the weir (7) by a step preferably nearly vertical, followed by a slope (22) to the trough.
  4. Floating skimmer device according to the claim 3 wherein the lower lip (12) is elongated at the front of the float (14) by a inclined flat forepart (11) preferably with an angle between 5 and 10 degrees.
  5. Floating skimmer device according to the claim 4 wherein a hollow (21) between the step and the slop (22), preferably partially recessed in the step, with near edge (20) connected with the slope (22).
  6. Floating skimmer device according to anyone of the preceding claims wherein the float device (4) is made with a safety upper float (5) and with a weir lower float (6), secured together, with a space between them.
  7. Floating skimmer device according to the claim 6 wherein the safety upper float (5) has a central hole through it, positioned vertically above the trough of the weir (7), with the pump inlet installed above the said hole, preferably near the bottom of the trough (7).
  8. Floating skimmer device according to the claims 6 and 7, wherein the safety upper float (5) is secured recessed of the lower lip of the opening in front of the weir lower float (6).
  9. Floating skimmer device according to anyone of the preceding claims wherein the axis of the pump outlet (3a) is at the perpendicular of the direction of the lower lip (12) of the front opening.
  10. Floating skimmer device according to anyone of the preceding claims wherein the flexible tubular hose (8) pass on the top and above the float (4) and at the opposite side of the weir opening.
  11. Floating skimmer device according to anyone of the preceding claims wherein the f oat (4) comprises a pair of deflectors (14) articulated on each side of the front opening, positioned at a 45° angle with regard to the lower lip (12) of the said opening, and the said deflector supporting each a boom.
EP94904207A 1993-03-05 1994-01-07 Floating skimmer device Expired - Lifetime EP0687330B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9302571 1993-03-05
FR9302571A FR2702232B1 (en) 1993-03-05 1993-03-05 Floating skimming device.
PCT/FR1994/000018 WO1994020691A1 (en) 1993-03-05 1994-01-07 Floating skimmer device

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0687330A1 EP0687330A1 (en) 1995-12-20
EP0687330B1 true EP0687330B1 (en) 1999-09-29

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ID=9444693

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP94904207A Expired - Lifetime EP0687330B1 (en) 1993-03-05 1994-01-07 Floating skimmer device

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EP (1) EP0687330B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE185179T1 (en)
AU (1) AU5835694A (en)
CZ (1) CZ212894A3 (en)
DE (1) DE69420953D1 (en)
FR (1) FR2702232B1 (en)
PL (1) PL306004A1 (en)
SK (1) SK109694A3 (en)
WO (1) WO1994020691A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
SE507349C2 (en) * 1996-02-12 1998-05-18 Bengt Wallin Device for cleaning cutting fluids
WO1999057378A1 (en) 1998-05-06 1999-11-11 Mantis Oil Separation Limited Weir skimmer and flotation system
CZ300592B6 (en) * 2001-01-03 2009-06-24 Grouting device for application of corrective agents
CN104563075B (en) * 2015-02-07 2016-05-04 刘书雄 A kind of river course cleaning plant

Family Cites Families (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR1349008A (en) * 1963-03-04 1964-01-10 Device for the removal of impurities and in particular layers of oil floating on the surface of the water
US3757953A (en) * 1972-05-26 1973-09-11 Eagle W Sky Decanting skimmer
DE2308048A1 (en) * 1973-02-19 1974-08-22 Friedrich Schrage Dampfkessel Removing floating sludge or oil from sewage - by submersible pump in floating vessel adjusted so as to fill constantly surface material only
GB1553758A (en) * 1977-08-13 1979-09-26 Lathe D C C Skimming device
US4400134A (en) * 1980-02-22 1983-08-23 Eurotech International Limited Collector apparatus

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE69420953D1 (en) 1999-11-04
FR2702232A1 (en) 1994-09-09
CZ212894A3 (en) 1995-11-15
EP0687330A1 (en) 1995-12-20
WO1994020691A1 (en) 1994-09-15
SK109694A3 (en) 1995-06-07
AU5835694A (en) 1994-09-26
PL306004A1 (en) 1995-02-20
FR2702232B1 (en) 1995-05-05
ATE185179T1 (en) 1999-10-15

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