Pipe skimmers are constructed with steel pipe that has a 60-degree slot cut from the upper part of the pipe.  The pipe may be rotated manually with a lever, a handwheel operated gear arrangement, or a motorized gear arrangement.

The HeliSkim is a motor-driven helical blade skimmer that consists of a wiper clamped against a steel helical blade.  The rotation of the helical assembly prevents any jerking or splashing of the skimmings and eliminates the necessity of manual skimming in addition to reducing the water content typical of pipe skimmers.

The Ramp Skimmer utilizes the same type components as the full-scale rectangular collectors, combining a drive unit with flight type mechanical skimmer. The drive may be equipped with controls for manual operation, timer controlled, intermittent operation or continuous operation.

Ramp Skimmers are recommended where unusually large quantities of floating grease and scum are anticipated.