Pneumatic Oil Barrier

The pneumatic oil barrier or compressed air barrier is a plant for waters or port facilities. It creates a barrier for anything floating on the water, holding back especially floating oil and flotsam. For more than 50 years, it is used in locks, ports, rivers, canals or for the protection of industrial plants. In a system permanently installed hoses or pipes with special nozzle openings are anchored to the seabed. In case of alarm, compressed air generated in a compressed air system is pushed into the nozzle tube. The air exiting the nozzle produces a vertical flow, which converts to the water surface in two horizontal currents in the water. These horizontal currents keep the water surface floating oil and other substances driving back. Boats or ships can pass the barrier freely. A permanently installed compressed air system is ready for use in just a few minutes after activation. This system can operate without additional work force and can also be used in case of fire.