ISO 21072-3-2020 PDF

Full title and description

Ships and marine technology — Marine environment protection: performance testing of oil skimmers — Part 3: High viscosity oil (ISO 21072-3:2020). This part specifies test methodology and reporting for assessing the performance of oil skimmers when recovering high‑viscosity oils (above 50 000 cP) in controlled basin tests.

Abstract

This document defines a standardized methodology for establishing quantitative performance data for oil skimmers handling highly viscous oils (greater than 50 000 cP). The method applies to basin testing with controlled oil properties and slick characteristics, is suitable for all skimmer types within basin physical limits, and provides full‑scale test results for one or more classes of highly viscous oil while cautioning about direct extrapolation to field conditions.

General information

• Status: Published.
• Publication date: September 2020.
• Publisher: International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
• ICS / categories: 13.020.99, 47.020.99.
• Edition / version: Edition 2 (2020).
• Number of pages: 10.

Scope

Specifies a basin test methodology to produce quantitative performance data for oil skimmers recovering high‑viscosity oil (above 50 000 mPa·s / cP). The scope covers control of oil properties and slick characteristics, applicability to different skimmer designs provided they fit the test basin, performance measurement and reporting for one or more classes of highly viscous oil, and notes limitations when using test results to predict field performance. For dedicated or in‑built systems, the procedure applies to the skimming device itself, not the complete skimming system.

Key topics and requirements

• Defined test setup and basin conditions for repeatable performance measurement.
• Classification of “high viscosity” oils (above 50 000 cP) and control of oil properties during testing.
• Measurement of key performance metrics (recovery rate, throughput, oil retention/losses, and operational stability) under controlled conditions.
• Limits on applicability (equipment dimensions relative to basin physical limits; caution when extrapolating to open‑water conditions).
• Reporting requirements to allow objective comparison between skimmer designs and units.
• Clarification that procedures apply to the skimming device only for dedicated/in‑built systems, not the entire system installation.

Typical use and users

Used by skimmer manufacturers for design verification and product data, independent test laboratories conducting performance evaluations, oil spill response organizations and contractors assessing equipment suitability, maritime operators and shipyards selecting recovery gear, and regulators or procuring authorities requiring standardized performance evidence. Test reports help end users objectively compare skimmer performance classes.

Related standards

Part of the ISO 21072 series on oil skimmer performance testing. Related parts include ISO 21072-1 (moving water conditions, original edition 2009 — withdrawn/replaced) and ISO 21072-2:2020 (light and medium viscosity oil, Edition 2, 2020). The series is prepared by ISO/TC 8/SC 2.

Keywords

oil skimmer, oil recovery, high viscosity oil, performance testing, marine environment protection, basin test, recovery rate, skimmer throughput, ISO 21072, ISO/TC 8/SC 2.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ISO 21072-3:2020 is an international standard that specifies a laboratory/basin test method for measuring the performance of oil skimmers when recovering high‑viscosity oils (above 50 000 cP).

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers controlled basin test procedures, required control of oil and slick properties, performance metrics to be recorded, applicability limits (equipment vs basin), and reporting to allow objective comparison of skimmers. It also notes limitations for direct field extrapolation.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Manufacturers, independent test labs, oil spill response organizations, ship operators, procuring bodies, and regulators who need standardized, comparable performance data for skimming devices.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: ISO 21072-3:2020 is the current published edition (Edition 2, September 2020), which replaced the earlier 2010 version; ISO standards are reviewed periodically (typically every five years).

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes — it is Part 3 of the ISO 21072 series. Other parts include Part 1 (moving water conditions — earlier/withdrawn edition) and Part 2:2020 (light and medium viscosity oil).

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Oil skimmer, high viscosity oil, performance testing, basin test, recovery rate, marine environment protection, ISO 21072.