Belt vs Tube vs Disc Oil Skimmers: Which Type Is Best for Your Application?

Choosing Between Belt, Tube, and Disc Oil Skimmers

Selecting the right oil skimmer type is critical for effective oil removal. The three most common types — belt, tube, and disc skimmers — each have distinct strengths. This guide from Vens Hydroluft helps you understand the differences and choose the best skimmer for your specific application.

Belt Oil Skimmers: Best for Moderate to Large Tanks

Belt oil skimmers offer the best balance of oil removal rate, simplicity, and cost for medium to large tanks with adequate overhead clearance. They handle a wide range of oil viscosities and work well in central coolant systems, wash tanks, and wastewater sumps. The continuous belt provides consistent oil pickup rates and operates reliably for years with minimal maintenance.

Tube Oil Skimmers: Best for Tight Spaces and Small Sumps

Tube oil skimmers shine in applications with limited access, low overhead clearance, or irregular tank shapes. The flexible tube snakes around obstacles and reaches areas other skimmers cannot. They are the preferred choice for individual CNC machines, grinding machines, and EDM equipment where space is at a premium.

Disc Oil Skimmers: Best for High Oil Concentration Recovery

Disc oil skimmers recover oil with the least water content of the three types, making them ideal when oil recycling or disposal costs are a concern. For maximum capacity, the Vens ORBIS Pro multi-disc skimmers multiply the oil pickup rate by stacking multiple discs. Visit our YouTube channel to see all three types in action. Need help deciding? Contact Vens Hydroluft for a free application assessment.