What are oil water separators?
An oil water separator is a device used to treat wastewater. It removes oils, grease and hydrocarbons, leaving only the non-hazardous water. The wastewater can then be disposed of safely in drainage. There are different kinds of oil water separators, and each one has a different capability. They are used for varying commercial and industrial applications. They also treat contaminants found in water, including free-floating oil, emulsified oil, dissolved oil, and suspended solids.
Our oil water separator benefits
Our oil water separator systems are engineered for superior removal of oil from water. With systems available from 1,000L to 5,000L nominal flow rate per hour.
Because they help you meet water authority standards, you save on costly fines and shutdowns – as well as ensuring you meet your Environmental Duty of Care.
They're pre-plumbed, pre-wired and designed to fit existing infrastructure – saving on installation time.
Plus, Cleanawater can conduct service and maintenance to suit, ensuring your oil water separator system delivers optimal performance for decades to come.
Authority compliant
Quarantine approved

Use our calculator to get your oil water separator estimate
Our oil water separator range
Introducing our comprehensive oil water separator range. Our separators are meticulously engineered to remove oil and hydrocarbon contaminants from water, while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

SS (Stainless Steel)
The exceptional durability of our stainless steel range ensures a long-lasting oily water separation solution that can withstand harsh industrial conditions
Its resistance to corrosion means less maintenance and fewer replacement costs. Plus, stainless steel separators help your facility remain environmentally compliant by efficiently removing oil and hydrocarbon contaminants from wastewater, ensuring you meet stringent regulations while safeguarding the environment.

PE (Polyethylene)
Cleanawater’s polyethylene oil water separator packages are installed to remove oils, grease and free hydrocarbons from wastewater. They are a standard, low-cost, pre-treatment system.
Additionally, polyethylene is highly resistant to corrosion and chemicals, making it an excellent choice for corrosive or aggressive environments. These separators are lightweight, easy to install, and cost-effective, making them suitable for smaller-scale operations or temporary setups.

For more information on product specs, site layout diagrams and operation manuals view our document library

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Our oil water separator specifications
Looking for the ideal oil water separator for your industry applications? You’ll find the perfect system at Cleanawater. Plus, our compliance with environmental authorities means guaranteed responsible wastewater management no matter your facility’s needs.
See our oil water separators in action
Witness firsthand how our cutting-edge oil water separators successfully addressed a critical environmental challenge faced by Swinburne University, showcasing our remarkable efficacy in mitigating oil and hydrocarbon contamination, reducing environmental impact, and achieving compliance with rigorous regulatory standards.
How our oil water separators work
Find out more about how our oil water separators function. Each system is created using innovative technology to ensure efficient performance when removing oil, grease, and free-floating hydrocarbons from wastewater, all while adhering to environmental compliance Australia-wide.

Oil water separator features
- Small footprint - install to tight spaces
- Available with a selection of upgrades to suit site specific requirements
- Utilises coalescing media technology which is less prone to premature blockage
- No filter bag consumables required
- Removes hydrocarbons to 30ppm to meet water authority regulations
- Commonly used as primary treatment for water recycling
Oil water separator benefits
- Approved and appraised by all major metropolitan and regional authorities
- Turn key packages - easy and quick to install
- Avoid costly fines from authorities
- Avoid compromising the daily operations of your business
- Weatherproof for outdoor installation
- Automated operation and no consumables required
- Average working life of 20+ years
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to install an oil separator?
Whether you need a permit to install an oil water separator depends on your location and the specific regulations governing wastewater treatment in your area. Contact your local authority to confirm if you require a permit.
Do I need anything other than an oil water separator?
The need for additional equipment or systems alongside an oil water separator depends on your specific industrial processes, wastewater characteristics, and environmental compliance requirements.
While oil water separators are effective at removing hydrocarbon contaminants from wastewater and preventing oil spills, some situations may require supplementary equipment or processes. Our standard packages include a non-emulsifying pump, float switches, waste oil drum, galvanised support frame and a control panel.
How often do oil separators require servicing?
The frequency of servicing for oil water separators can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of separator, the volume and characteristics of the wastewater, and local regulatory requirements. However, we generally advise on servicing it every 3-6 months. This may vary depending on the amount of sludge accumulated in your process and oil influent levels.
Can oil water separators be installed outdoors?
Yes. Our units are constructed from durable materials ideal for outdoor environments. Let us know the details of your separate oil removal process, and we’ll install the ideal separator for your wastewater management needs.

Enquire about oil water separators
We have representatives in
Newcastle
Mayfield West
NSW 2304
Sydney
Sydney
NSW 2000
Melbourne
Thomastown
VIC 3074
Brisbane
Geebung
QLD 4034
Perth
Osborne Park
WA 6017
Adelaide
Wayville
SA 5034