Control of Oil Spills in High Speed Currents, A Technology Assessment.
Abstract
A technology assessment has been conducted to analyze the threat of oil spills in fast currents. Technologies and methods for response were evaluated, and promising equipment and strategies were identified. Recommendations are made to pursue those methods, equipment, and training that show the most promise for improved oil spill response capabilities in currents from 1 to 6 knots. Recommendations include technology development, testing, and field demonstrations. In addition, regulations, guidelines and training requirements for the USCG and the oil spill response industry were reviewed to determine their adequacy for fast water response. Improvements are suggested to make these practices more useful. Containment and removal of oil spilled in rivers and coastal tidal regions, where currents exceed one knot, is very difficult because many skimmers and conventional booming methods are not effective in fast currents. Under fast water conditions, the oil must be skimmed as it goes by the recovery device, or the surface current containing the oil must be slowed down without causing entrainment within the skimmer or boom containment system. The benefits and liabilities of high-speed skimmers and specialized boom systems are reviewed for fast water conditions. Promising deflection strategies are shown. Alternate containment and diversion techniques, including pneumatic boom, horizontal air and water jets, plunging waterjets, diversion paravanes, and floating paddle wheels, are also analyzed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA369279
Entities
People
- Brian Gurr
- Thomas Coe
Organizations
- United States Coast Guard Research & Development Center