Liquid Protection Need

CO2 streams from capture systems, wells, or processes contain water vapor, hydrocarbon contaminants, and condensed CO2. Temperature variations cause condensation. KO drums provide final liquid removal at compressor suction preventing valve damage, cylinder cracking, or impeller erosion.

Drum Design

Vertical separator immediately before compressor suction nozzle. Gas inlet, momentum breaker, mist eliminator, gas outlet to compressor, liquid sump with level control, and high-level shutdown. Short piping distance minimizes liquid accumulation between separator and compression.

Operating Pressure

Matches CO2 source pressure typically 1-50 bar before compression. Low-pressure CO2 from capture systems operates near atmospheric. Higher pressure for CO2 from natural sources or intermediate compression stages. Design accommodates inlet conditions.

Contaminant Types

Water condensate from cooling or humidity. Hydrocarbon liquids from contaminated sources. Liquid CO2 from temperature drops. Process chemicals from upstream treating. Separator internals handle mixed contaminants.

Material Selection

Stainless steel construction resists corrosion from CO2, water, and impurities. Design handles low temperatures if CO2 near condensation point. Materials prevent brittle fracture at cold conditions.

Safety Systems

High and high-high level switches provide alarm and compressor shutdown. Fast-acting isolation valves stop flow before liquid reaches cylinders. Redundant instruments ensure protection. Interlocks meet safety instrumented system requirements.

Applications

Carbon capture CO2 compression for transport or storage, enhanced oil recovery CO2 supply compression, natural CO2 well production, beverage and food grade CO2 processing, and industrial gas compression.

Level Control

Level-activated drains remove accumulated liquids to treatment or disposal. High-level protection prevents overflow to gas outlet. Automated drainage maintains inventory without operator intervention.

Performance Benefits

Prevents expensive compressor damage from liquid ingestion. Maintains volumetric efficiency by removing incompressible fluids. Protects mechanical components extending equipment life. Simple proven protection for CO2 compression operations.

Construction Standards

Design per ASME Section VIII for operating pressure. Materials suitable for CO2 service with moisture and contaminants. Relief protection against blocked outlets. Complete documentation with shutdown logic.

ERGIL CO2 compressor knockout drums deliver reliable liquid protection ensuring safe compression in carbon capture and industrial CO2 systems.