Water Condensation

CO2 from capture systems, wells, or industrial sources contains water vapor. Cooling before compression or liquefaction condenses moisture. Free water causes severe corrosion in presence of CO2 forming carbonic acid. Water separator removes liquid preventing equipment damage.

Separator Design

Vertical vessel with CO2-water mixture inlet, momentum breaker, gravity settling zone, coalescing elements capturing fine droplets, dry CO2 outlet, and water drain. Design prevents water carryover while maintaining low pressure drop.

Operating Conditions

Pressure typically 1-50 bar before compression. Temperature 10-40C after cooling. Design handles both phases - liquid water and CO2 gas. Materials resist corrosion from CO2 with moisture.

Corrosion Protection

Wet CO2 extremely corrosive forming carbonic acid. Stainless steel construction essential. Proper drainage prevents water accumulation. Design minimizes residence time of wet CO2. Critical for equipment longevity.

Material Selection

Stainless steel 316 or duplex grades resist CO2 corrosion. Carbon steel unsuitable for wet CO2 service. All wetted parts corrosion-resistant. Design prevents material failure from acidic environment.

Hydrate Prevention

CO2 hydrates form at low temperature blocking equipment. Water removal before cooling prevents hydrate formation. Some applications inject inhibitors. Separator ensures bulk water removal before critical temperature zones.

Applications

Carbon capture compression trains, natural CO2 well production, enhanced oil recovery CO2 handling, beverage and food grade CO2 processing, and industrial CO2 production where moisture removal essential.

Level Control

Automatic drains remove accumulated water preventing overflow. Level switches protect against carryover. Collected water routes to treatment or disposal. Minimal water volume but critical to remove.

Downstream Protection

Dry CO2 prevents compressor corrosion extending equipment life. Protects liquefaction equipment from ice formation. Enables pipeline transport meeting dryness specifications. Essential pre-treatment for CO2 utilization.

Performance Benefits

Prevents catastrophic corrosion failures in CO2 systems. Eliminates hydrate blockages. Protects expensive compression and liquefaction equipment. Simple separation with significant operational value.

Construction Standards

Design per ASME Section VIII with corrosion-resistant materials. All components rated for wet CO2 service. Relief protection against thermal expansion. Complete documentation with material specifications for CO2 compatibility.

ERGIL CO2 water separators protect carbon dioxide handling systems through effective moisture removal preventing corrosion and operational problems.