Abanaki, USA, has created a demo of its PetroXtractor Active Membrane Skimmer. This pneumatic active skimmer pump functions entirely automatically with no moving parts and is designed to recover light non-aqueous phase liquids (LNAPL) from underground water at depths of up to 130 feet.

The PetroXtractor Active Membrane Skimmer is a combination of a pump and skimmer that fits inside a monitoring well. It uses a combination of pump and skimmer technology. The unit features a patented membrane that skims the light hydrocarbons and keeps water out of the recovered liquid, which lowers disposal costs. This selective membrane is designed to recover free-floating hydrocarbons such as gasoline, diesel fuel, aviation fuel and kerosene, as well as other LNAPL from groundwater.

When full, the pump's internal float kicks the compressed air on and discharges the product out. Once the hydrocarbon is flushed out, the pump can cycle again. Equipped with a start/stop design, the pumps will automatically shut off when there is no recovered liquid present. The automatic shutoff feature eliminates the need for continuous air supply, which helps to preserve the life of the pump and lowers energy costs. The PetroXtractor Active Membrane Skimmer is made of durable stainless steel which provides for a long service life while withstanding harsh conditions. It has no moving parts, is ATEX certified for high-explosive environments, and is easy to install.

(spill-international.com, Edited by Topco)