Fasseparatorer

Fasseparatorer, commonly referred to in English as phase separators, are equipment used to separate mixtures into distinct phases, such as gas, liquids, and solids. They exploit differences in properties like density, viscosity, and interfacial tension, often enhanced by gravity, flow disruption, or centrifugal forces. Phase separators are used in a wide range of processes from industrial plants to municipal systems.

There are several typical designs. Gravity separators rely on vertical or horizontal flow and density differences to achieve separation; they are common in oil and gas production, wastewater treatment, and chemical processing. Cyclone separators use centrifugal forces to separate solid particles from gases or liquids, often as pre-separators or dust collectors. Coalescing and plate-type separators introduce internal surfaces or media to promote droplet coalescence and faster phase separation. In some applications centrifuge-based separators are used to achieve high separation efficiency at higher rotation speeds from a compact unit. Demister pads and baffles may be added to improve coalescence and prevent entrainment.

Key performance factors include residence time, inlet flow pattern, phase ratios, droplet or particle size, temperature, pressure drop, and material compatibility with the conveyed fluids. Design considerations also cover maintenance access, corrosion resistance, and safe handling of flammable or toxic streams. Materials of construction range from carbon steel to specialized alloys and lined or coated options.

Common applications span oil and gas processing (separating oil, water, and gas), chemical processing (liquids with immiscible phases), and wastewater treatment (solids-liquid separation). Phase separators are chosen to balance efficiency, footprint, operating cost, and retrofit opportunities within a process train.