Accessories
McTighe Industries designs and builds liquid level sensors for use in our separators and various process tanks. Construction options include brass stem with Buna-N floats or all stainless steel construction. The floats can be provided to detect the oil/water interface (weighted) or to detect the liquid/air interface (light).
The McTighe level sensors are wired to a Warrick relay mounted remotely or in the control panel. The Warrick relay maintains intrinsic safety of the level sensors, as long as appropriate explosion proof conduit and seals are used in accordance with the National Electric Code.
The McTighe float level sensor design is currently being used in thousands of separation and storage operations. The McTighe level sensor system is versatile and can provide alarm indication, switching, and other multi-level functions.
Leak Detection
The interstitial space on double wall separators can be monitored for leaks through a 2" access opening. The standard leak detection system that McTighe utilizes contains an internal float that is designed to detect any liquid accumulation in the interstitial space.
An alarm control panel, which typically includes an alarm horn, silencer, and light, is a part of the leak detection system. If a leak occurs and liquid builds up in the interstitial space, the internal float will rise and send an alarm signal to the panel. In the event of a leak alarm, the separator must be inspected and tank integrity must be verified.
If the sensor is mounted in a remote area preventing electronic leak detection, the interstitial space can be checked periodically for liquid accumulation using a gauge stick or the float leak sensor can be installed and checked with an ohmmeter to see if the float is up or down (circuit is closed or open).
Automatic Pump-Out Systems
There are two automatic pump-out systems available from McTighe to be used in our separators. One is for automatic oil pump-out, and the other is for automatic water pump-out.
The automatic oil pump-out systems are mainly used in instance where a large percentage of oil is anticipated in the influent, large oil spills are possible, and/or the facility is remote with limited personnel capable of checking the oil-water separator. This system typically consists of a pump, control panel, oil interface level sensor, and requires the use of a separate oil storage tank. The oil tank should be sized larger than the internal oil storage capabilities of the separator and come equipped with a separate high oil alarm to indicate when the tank is full.
The McTighe automatic oil pump-out system is designed to prevent water from being removed during the pumping cycle under static conditions AND when oily influent is entering the separator. An optional back-up high oil alarm is available in the event of a pump or motor failure. McTighe engineers en that sure pump type and performance characteristics are suited to the anticipated contaminants and site conditions.
The automatic water pump-out systems are required when site conditions prevent gravity discharge from the oil-water separator or the separator is discharging to a force main. The pump-out system can be either simplex or duplex. McTighe can provide the pump(s), control panel, level sensor, check valve(s), and other accessories required for a complete package.
For buried installations, McTighe typically specifies submersible pumps equipped with guide rails or cables and lifting chain for easy removal and reinstallation from grade without entering the compartment. The design requires an isolated base in the bottom of the compartment to prevent damage to the interior.
For above grade installations, McTighe typically specifies flooded suction pumps mounted on the head of the separator compartment. Submersible and top mounted self-priming pumps are also used for some above ground applications.
McTighe Industries, A Division of Billion International Group, 2100 N. Kimball St., Po Box 928, Madison, WI 53701-0928. Tel: 605-996-1162; Fax: 605-996-1908.