Diagonal design distributes drops
22 Aug 2000
Design methods which allow engineers to predict separator outlet levels have helped UK firm KnitMesh to develop a new family of plate separators. The new methods, which KnitMesh has used to replace conventional droplet cut-off size prediction, produces separators that outperform gravity devices, the company says.
`The critical issue with any separators is to effectively predict how they will perform once installed,’ explains sales manager Paul Robinson. `’Our new design technique allows us to provide more accurate estimates of entrainment levels, and also to present the information to the operator in a more meaningful way.’
The KnitMesh plate separator shown here uses these principles to separate primary immiscible liquid dispersions, including those containing high concentrations of solids and waxes. Its diagonal profile allows the phases of the mixture to engage continuously along the plate edge, which keeps the flow stable and stops droplets becoming re-entrained.
The new configuration also allows more plates to be fitted into a given volume of a separator vessel, says KnitMesh. This can be used to boost the efficiency of existing equipment, as the plates can be retrofitted into horizontal gravity settlers.
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