Why Are Certain Sludges So Difficult to Dewater?

Oil separator sludge in particular presents specific challenges for sludge dewatering due to its composition. It often contains surfactants, mineral oil hydrocarbons (MHC) and a high proportion of very fine particles.

In these sludges, up to 95% of the particles can be smaller than 63 µm. The fine particle structure creates microscopic capillary structures that retain water within the sludge.

As a result, the water cannot be sufficiently separated through simple static dewatering alone.

One option is pressure dewatering, for example using a chamber filter press. For suitable applications, the OKO-ewcs offers a different approach:

Vibration Instead of High Pressure.

The optional vibration mechanism moves the vibration-mounted screen basket. This helps break up capillary structures within the sludge and supports the release of retained water.

The Result

A robust and comparatively simple solution for the cost-effective dewatering of suitable, difficult-to-dewater sludges.

How the OKO-ewcs Dewatering Container Works

The OKO-ewcs is based on a standardised hook-lift container system in accordance with DIN 30720 and features a vibration-mounted screen basket.

The operator fills the sludge directly into the integrated screen basket. The water initially drains through the filter surface and then collects in the space between the screen basket and the container.

In versions equipped with the vibration module, the system additionally moves the screen basket. The resulting vibrations support the release of capillary-bound water from the sludge.

The separated water is then discharged through the dewatering connections for further treatment or discharge.

Once dewatering is complete, the operator simply tips the container to discharge the dewatered sludge.

Dewatering That Pays Off

Cost-effective sludge dewatering starts with reducing the water content.

The less water remains in the sludge, the lower the mass that needs to be transported and disposed of. The OKO-ewcs provides a compact, mobile and robust solution for this purpose.

Reduced sludge volume: Separating water reduces the volume of dewatered sludge.

Potential reduction in disposal costs: Less water means less mass to transport and dispose of, which can create significant savings potential in transportation and disposal costs.

Enhanced dewatering performance: The optional vibration module supports water release and can provide advantages over purely static dewatering, particularly for suitable difficult-to-dewater sludges.

Mobile and flexible: The OKO-ewcs is designed as a hook-lift container and can be transported, deployed and emptied simply by tipping the container.

Robust construction: The galvanised container body, stainless steel basket frame and durable PE filter cloth are designed for long-term use.

Buy or Rent the OKO-ewcs

Not every company wants to make an immediate investment in its own sludge dewatering solution.

That is why OKO-tech also offers the OKO-ewcs for rental.

This allows the technology to be used under real operating conditions and the potential savings in sludge dewatering to be assessed before making a long-term investment decision.

Benefits of the Rental Option

• No high initial investment
• Predictable operating costs
• Practical testing under real operating conditions
• Flexible solution for seasonal or temporary requirements
• Opportunity to assess the individual savings potential

Or Purchase the System

For permanent applications, the OKO-ewcs can be configured to suit the specific requirements of the application and purchased as a dedicated solution.

5, 7 or 10 m³ Usable Volume

We support you in selecting the appropriate version and equipment options for your application.

Individually Configurable

Depending on the requirements of the application, the OKO-ewcs can be equipped with various options.

Vibration module: For increased dewatering performance with suitable difficult-to-dewater sludges.

Cover tarp: Protects the container contents from rain and other external influences.

Level measurement: For demand-based monitoring of the fill level.

Filling supports: For safe guidance and controlled filling of the container.

Robustly Built for Long-Term Use

The OKO-ewcs was developed for demanding practical applications.

The container body is galvanised both inside and outside. The galvanised coating protects the steel structure against corrosion and supports a long service life.

The stainless steel basket frame and durable PE filter cloth complement the robust and durable design of the dewatering system.

Robust. Mobile. Easy to operate.

What Applications Is the OKO-ewcs Suitable For?

The OKO-ewcs is particularly suitable for applications where sludge has a high water content and economical reduction of sludge volume is required.

Typical applications include:

• Oil separator sludge
• Sludge from sewer and road cleaning
• Difficult-to-dewater sludges
• Sludges with a high proportion of fine solids
• Other suitable industrial sludges

Whether the OKO-ewcs is suitable for your sludge depends, among other factors, on its composition, solids content and dewatering characteristics.

We assess your application and advise you on the appropriate configuration.