Procon Environmental Technologies

Pro Maintenance

by Ntokozo Skhosana | Jul 1, 2025 | Portfolio

Procon Environmental Solutions completed a scheduled maintenance project on a high-capacity oil-water separator (OWS) system at the Sandvik workshop, reaffirming our commitment to environmental compliance, operational reliability, and hydrocarbon pollution prevention.

Why Oil-Water Separator Maintenance Matters

Oil-water separators are vital components in industrial and workshop operation, particularly in the mining and engineering sectors, where hydrocarbons, lubricants and other oily contaminants can mix with wash water or stormwater runoff.

Neglecting maintenance can lead to:

Decreased separation efficiency
Bypass of untreated oily water
Hydrocyclone Liners
Environmental non-compliance and possible penalties
Health and safety risks due to spills or equipment failure

Routine servicing ensures the system functions within design parameters, protecting both the environment and client operations.

The Maintenance Process at Sandvik

1. System Shutdown and Safety Lockout

All power and fluid inputs to the separator were shut down to create a safe working environment, safety signage and lockout procedures were implemented in line with Sandvik’s HSE protocols.

2. Inspection and Preliminary Testing

Technicians performed a full inspection of:

Inlet/outlet valves and pipework
Hydrocyclone Liners
Oil-level sensors and alarms
Sludge accumulation in the sump

3. System Scrub & High Pressure Cleaning

Oil water separator system components were scrubbed with our ProMax degreaser
Skimmer was hoisted from the silt trap and washed to remove oil and hydrocarbon waste
Workshop floors were flushed and cleaned using high-pressure water hose

4. Filter and Media Replacement

The Hydrocyclone Liners were removed, cleaned, and replaced where necessary to restore optimal oil capture efficiency.
Screens and debris filters were cleaned to remove grit and solids.

5. Sensor and Pump Calibration

Float switches, oil sensors, and control relays were tested and recalibrated.
Pumps were tested for flow rate and functionality.

6. System Recommissioning

Following cleaning and testing, the system was recommissioned. Flow simulation tests confirmed proper separation and no leaks. A service report with photos and recommendations was submitted to Sandvik’s facilities team.

Supporting Sustainable Operations

By maintaining the integrity of the oil-water separator, Procon is enabling Sandvik to:

Prevent hydrocarbon pollution of stormwater and groundwater
Maintain ISO 14001 environmental management compliance
Extend the life of separation equipment
Operate responsibly within South Africa’s environmental legislation

This effort aligns with Procon’s broader mission to deliver pollution prevention, eco-innovation and environmental assurance to the industries we serve.

Partner With Us for Preventative Maintenance

Whether in mining, workshops, logistics yards, or refueling stations, Procon offers scheduled preventative maintenance programs tailored to your site’s needs.

Oil-water separator servicing
Bioremediation of contaminated soils
Hydrocarbon trap installation
Environmental risk audits

Down to (Green)Earth

by Ntokozo Skhosana | Jul 1, 2025 | EcoSystem Partnerships

Procon Environmental Solutions recently visited Green Earth South Africa to explore a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing soil remediation efforts through the integration of vermicomposting into our existing suite of microbial products. This collaboration seeks to address the pressing issue of land degradation, particularly in areas affected by mining activities, by leveraging sustainable and eco-friendly solutions.

Advancing Soil Remediation with Vermicomposting

Green Earth South Africa, renowned for its expertise in organic composting and vermiculture, offers vermicompost enriched with effective microorganisms (EM). This nutrient-rich organic fertilizer and soil conditioner is produced through a robust commercial worm farming operation, capable of supplying significant quantities of worms and vermicompost monthly . The vermicompost contains water-soluble nutrients and beneficial microbes that enhance soil health, making it ideal for rehabilitating degraded lands.

Procon specializes in hydrocarbon contamination management, pollution prevention, bioremediation and oily water separation, particularly in the petrochemical, mining, and manufacturing industries . Our existing microbial products have been instrumental in treating contaminated soils, by incorporating vermicomposting, we aim to bolster the efficacy of our remediation strategies, offering a more holistic approach to soil restoration.

Embracing a Circular Economy for Sustainable Land Rehabilitation
The integration of vermicomposting into soil remediation practices aligns with the principles of a circular economy, this approach transforms organic waste into valuable resources, reducing landfill dependency and greenhouse gas emissions . In the context of mining-affected lands, vermicompost has demonstrated potential in mitigating soil degradation, enhancing nutrient availability and promoting microbial activity. Our organic approach to facilitating the recovery of soil fertility and structure through vermicomposting will contribute to the sequestration of organic carbon in soils, aiding in climate change mitigation efforts .

Strategic Collaboration for Environmental Stewardship

The partnership between Procon Environmental Solutions and Green Earth South Africa represents a concerted effort to promote environmental stewardship through innovative and sustainable practices. By combining Procon’s expertise in bioremediation with Green Earth’s proficiency in vermiculture, the collaboration aims to develop integrated solutions that address the complex challenges of soil contamination and degradation.

This initiative underscores the importance of cross-sector collaboration in achieving environmental sustainability goals. Through shared knowledge, resources and commitment, Procon and Green Earth are poised to make significant strides in restoring the health and productivity of South Africa’s landscapes.