Koaleszenzabscheider

Koaleszenzabscheider, also known as coalescing separators, are devices used in fluid processing to separate immiscible liquids, typically oil and water, or to remove fine liquid droplets from a gas stream. The fundamental principle behind their operation is coalescence, the process where small droplets of one liquid merge to form larger droplets. This merging is facilitated by specialized materials or structures within the separator that encourage the formation of larger, more easily separable entities.

In the context of liquid-liquid separation, a coalescing separator often employs media with specific surface properties that attract one liquid phase while repelling the other. As the mixture flows through this media, the dispersed droplets of the less wetting liquid adhere to the media and grow larger. Once these droplets reach a sufficient size, gravity causes them to settle out or rise to the surface, allowing for their collection and removal.

For gas-liquid separation, coalescing separators are employed to remove mists or fine droplets of liquid that are carried along in a gas stream. The coalescing elements in these separators are designed to capture these small liquid particles. As the gas passes through the media, the liquid droplets collide with the element surfaces and with each other, merging into larger droplets. These larger droplets then drain away from the coalescing element, leaving a much drier gas stream. This process is crucial in various industrial applications, such as compressed air treatment, natural gas processing, and in separating valuable liquids from process gases.