What is Petroleum Contact Water (PCW)?

Understanding Petroleum Contact Water (PCW)

Petroleum Contact Water (PCW) refers to water that comes into contact with petroleum products. It plays a crucial role in various industrial processes, particularly in the context of underground storage tanks (USTs) and tank farms.

Let’s delve into the details:

What Is PCW?

PCW is simply defined as water containing petroleum products. Here are some common examples of PCW:

1. Condensate: This includes water collected from underground and above ground petroleum tanks.

2. Drawdown Water: When water is removed from a petroleum storage tank system, it is considered PCW.

3. Spill Containment Areas: Any water in contact with petroleum products that displays a visible sheen falls under PCW - including parking lots, fuel stations and garages.

4. Tank Cleaning Operations: Pumpable liquids resulting from tank cleaning are also considered PCW.

What Doesn’t Qualify as PCW?

Certain types of water do not meet the definition of PCW, including:

1. Equipment or Vehicle Wash Water: While vehicles can be exposed to petroleum products on the road, wash water is not considered PCW.

2. Bilge Water: Bilge water from boats or ships are not considered PCW.

3. Separated Solids: Solids separated and removed during tank cleaning operations are not classified as PCW.

Managing PCW

1. Recovery of Product: Producers must decide whether to recover product from PCW. If hazardous constituents exceed those found in the original product, the PCW becomes a solid waste subject to regulation.

2. Non-Hazardous PCW: If PCW is non-hazardous and not recovered, it is subject to specific management provisions.

3. Product Recovery: When recovering product from PCW, maintain records and manage it according to applicable standards.

In summary, understanding PCW is essential for maintaining environmental safety and ensuring proper management within the petroleum industry.

At Cain Services, we strive to recycle or repurpose Petroleum Contact Water within governing agency regulations. Petroleum products are an invaluable part of many modern industry operations including transportation and agriculture. Finding balance and efficiency ensures that these industries may continue for generations to come without the threat of irreversible environmental damage.