Separation Applications

Process gas carries liquids from condensation, carryover, or entrainment. Gas separators remove these liquids before compression, combustion, or sales. Applications include compressor suction protection, pipeline gas cleanup, instrument air drying, and process gas conditioning.

Vertical Design

Vertical vessels suit most gas separation duties. Gas enters tangentially creating spin throwing liquids to walls. Droplets fall countercurrent to rising gas. Wire mesh pad at top captures remaining particles. Clean gas exits overhead. Liquid drains from bottom sump.

Horizontal Alternative

Horizontal separators handle high liquid loads or foaming service. Greater liquid storage capacity. Lower height suits plot constraints. Longer flow path provides additional settling time. Selection depends on gas-to-liquid ratio and site conditions.

Operating Range

Design pressures from atmospheric to 1500 psig. Temperatures from cryogenic to 200C. Flow rates from 10 to 100,000 SCFM. Materials and construction match specific service requirements.

Material Options

Carbon steel for hydrocarbon gas. Stainless steel for corrosive service or high-purity applications. Aluminum for low-pressure air service. Special alloys for extreme conditions. Mist eliminator materials resist operating environment.

Separation Efficiency

Removes free liquids and droplets above 10 microns. Wire mesh captures 3-10 micron particles. Vane packs handle higher liquid loads. Combined stages achieve 95-99% liquid removal. Pressure drop typically under 2 psi.

Level Control

Level switches activate drain valves removing accumulated liquid. High-level protection prevents carryover to gas outlet. Manual or automatic drainage depending on liquid volume and automation requirements. Simple controls suit remote unmanned installations.

Applications

Compressor knockout drums, fuel gas scrubbing, refrigeration systems, air receiver condensate removal, pipeline pig launchers, vent gas cleanup, and countless process duties. Found in refineries, chemical plants, gas facilities, and manufacturing operations.

Performance Factors

Gas velocity must stay below re-entrainment limits typically 0.5-1.0 ft/sec in vertical vessels. Proper mist eliminator selection matches liquid loading. Temperature affects liquid viscosity and surface tension. Design accounts for operating conditions.

Construction Standards

Design per ASME Section VIII for pressure service. Materials suitable for gas and liquid properties. Relief protection against blocked outlets. Complete documentation with capacity calculations and material specifications.

ERGIL gas separator units provide reliable liquid removal protecting equipment and maintaining gas quality across industrial applications.