Portwest Oil Only Pad

Product Overview

The SM50WHR Oil Only Pad is a critical component for any workplace handling hydraulic systems or operating in marine environments. These white, hydrophobic pads are specifically engineered to attract and absorb hydrocarbons—such as oil and fuel—while completely repelling water. This unique characteristic allows them to float even when fully saturated, making them indispensable for cleaning up spills on water surfaces or in damp workshops without wasting absorbent capacity on moisture.

Key Features

• Hydrophobic Material: These pads naturally repel water, ensuring that 100% of their absorbent capacity is dedicated to capturing oil and grease.
• Open-Edge Wicking: Designed specifically for the needs of hydraulic engineers, the open edges allow for rapid wicking, drawing in fluids at a much faster rate than sealed alternatives.
• High Absorbency: Each individual pad is capable of holding 0.5 litres of oil, providing a reliable and predictable level of performance during spill remediation.
• Meltblown Polypropylene: The use of meltblown fibres creates a high-capacity structure that remains stable even when saturated with heavy oils.

Design & Performance

Constructed from meltblown polypropylene, these pads are a lightweight yet incredibly effective solution for fluid management. The material is chosen for its high surface area, which allows it to trap oil molecules deep within its structure. The white colour serves a practical purpose: it provides a high-contrast background that makes it immediately obvious when the pad has reached its saturation point. This ensures that users do not prematurely discard pads or, conversely, leave saturated pads in situ longer than necessary.

Why No Customisation?

As these pads are technical consumables designed for the sole purpose of spill control and hazardous waste management, customisation is not offered. Applying embroidery or heat-transfer logos would compromise the structural integrity of the meltblown fibres and hinder the pad's ability to wick fluids. Furthermore, as these items are disposed of after a single use, branding would be neither practical nor environmentally responsible.

Use Cases

These pads are primarily designed for hydraulic engineers who require quick-acting absorbents during maintenance or repair. They are also highly suited for marine applications, such as engine rooms or deck spills, where their ability to float on water is a significant advantage. General manufacturing facilities and automotive workshops will also find them useful for managing leaks around machinery without absorbing ambient moisture from the floor.

Why MyWorkwear

With a heritage stretching back to 1976, MyWorkwear has decades of experience in providing technical solutions to the UK workforce. Operating from our facility in Telford, we understand that safety and spill control are just as vital as the uniform your team wears. We select our range based on technical merit and reliability, ensuring you have the right tools to keep your business running smoothly.

Practical Advice

For the most effective spill response, we recommend keeping these pads in easily accessible, clearly marked spill stations near high-risk areas like hydraulic presses or oil storage tanks. When deploying on a large spill, overlap the pads slightly to ensure no oil escapes through the gaps. Remember that because these pads are hydrophobic, they will not be effective for water-based spills or general detergents.

Caring for your product

To maintain the performance of your spill control equipment, these pads should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to prolonged UV light can cause the polypropylene fibres to become brittle over time, which would significantly reduce the pad’s effectiveness and structural integrity when it is needed most.

Once the pad has been used to absorb oil or hydraulic fluid, it must be handled as hazardous waste. Because it is saturated with hydrocarbons, it cannot be washed, laundered, or repurposed. Attempting to clean the pads would not only be ineffective but would also risk introducing pollutants into the water system. Always dispose of used pads in accordance with local environmental regulations and your company's hazardous waste protocols.