This guide provides techniques for obtaining representative samples of oil and water mixtures. This information is necessary in the calculation of oil recovery efficiency and oil recovery rates for oil collection devices.

Sampling Stationary Mixtures-When recovered oil/water mixtures are contained within a holding tank and the relative oil content of the recovered fluid is needed, the sampling technique is somewhat dependent on the container. Two techniques are outlined in this guide. If the container has a flat bottom with straight sides perpendicular to the base (or nearly so), either stationary technique can be implemented, with the stratified sampling method preferred. If the container is irregular in either the horizontal or vertical cross section, the mixing method is preferred.

Sampling Flowing Mixtures-To sample flowing mixtures containing both oil and water, turbulence is induced, to create a homogenous mixture while sampling. The oil content in the sample taken from the flowing stream can then be used to quantify the performance rating criterion (see Procedure Section of Test Method D 1796).