Final Great Lakes Exercise 1 Report
Abstract
This report describes a three-day exercise involving oil spill response equipment for use in broken ice conditions. The exercise was conducted in the Coast Guard Sector Sault Ste. Marie operating area. During the exercise, a select group of Oil Spill Response Organizations (OSROs) demonstrated logistics and equipment. A newly designed grooved drum skimmer was fitted with a steam/hot water hook-up. This concept should help reduce the viscosity of oil being collected, and minimize ice blockages. A fire boom was mobilized and towed in a U-configuration using two small vessels. The boom held the configuration but the small vessels seemed underpowered for the task. A fire monitor was also used to herd oil into a containment boom, demonstrating multiple logistical implications. An older design rope-mop skimmer was also demonstrated. This unit showed some operational quirks but would be useful under certain circumstances due to its size and power requirements. A Boom Vane was also demonstrated, along with an additional small drum skimmer. The boom vane, controlled from shore, utilized water current to hold a diversion boom in place while the small skimmer operated in the pocket of the boom. Recommendations are provided for further study in colder conditions using oil simulants.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA551023
Entities
People
- Daniel Dugery
- David K.C. Cooper
Organizations
- United States Coast Guard Research & Development Center