Phase separator apparatus

U.S. Patent Number: 5340470

Abstract: A separation apparatus for improved separation of liquids containing finely divided suspended particles having multiple stacks of parallel interceptor plates which divide the separation vessel to provide an annular space between the parallel interceptor plates and the vertical wall of the separation vessel to thereby form an inlet manifold for the plates which manifold provides a uniform, uninterrupted flow to each stack of plates. The arrangement of plates also forms an outlet manifold which provides a uniform flow from each stack of plates and directs the liquid stream having a reduced level of finely divided suspended particles downward in the separation vessel to an exit in the lower end of the vessel. The feed liquid is introduced into the lower end of the separation vessel with an inlet distributor which initially directs at least a majority of the feed liquid in a generally downward direction to effect a primary separation prior to being introduced into the stacks of parallel interceptor plates. The introduction of the feed liquid and the exit of the separated product streams from the lower end of the separation vessel balance the velocity heads on either side of the stacks of the parallel interceptor plates and eliminates horizontal surfaces which would accumulate solids.

Inventors: Hedrick; Brian W. (Rolling Meadows, IL), Micklich; Frank T. (Joliet, IL), Johnson; Brian H. (Long Grove, IL), Meier; Daniel G. (Kenosha, WI), Whitsura; Frank R. (Schaumburg, IL), Engelman; Bill R. (Schaumburg, IL)

Assignee: UOP (Des Plaines, IL)

Application Number: 08/128,167

Issued: 1994-08-23

Expired: 2006-08-23

Classes: 210/130 ; 210/519; 210/521; 210/532.1; 210/540

Field of search: 210/130,519,521,522,532.1,538,540

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