Introduction

Pall’s new AquaSep XS liquid/liquid coalescer system is a lower cost solution to separate emulsions versus competitive cartridge coalescers, sand beds and electrostatic precipitators (ESPs). Its cost effectiveness is due to the ability of each coalescer element to process a higher flow while still providing superior effluent quality. Up to 60% more flow per element is now achievable, resulting in significantly lower capex, smaller footprint and volume, as well as reduced weight. Outlet quality is superior to competitive offerings. See Figures 1, 2, and 3 below.

Description

The AquaSep XS system is a multiple-stage system starting with filtration to remove particulate matter, followed by either a one-stage horizontal coalescer or two-stage integrated vertical coalescer/separator stack to separate the two liquid phases. AquaSep XS coalescers will remove free water to a level as low as 15 ppmv¹ and be effective over a wide range of conditions such as inlet liquid contaminant concentration as high as 10% and interfacial tension less than 20 dynes/cm.

The AquaSep XS coalescer system is available in two different housing configurations. Both configurations begin with a filtration stage to remove solid contaminants.

Table 1: Coalescer Selection Guide

AquaSep XS Coalescer— Horizontal Housing Configuration

In a horizontal housing, the liquid/liquid mixture enters the coalescing element and flows inside-to-outside, small liquid dispersed phase droplets suspended in the continuous phase come together, or coalesce, as the mixture moves through the AquaSep XS coalescer. The large coalesced droplets of the dispersed phase separate by gravity in the horizontal housing and are removed. The size of the housing is a function of the flow rate, IFT, viscosity, and specific gravity of the liquids.

AquaSep XS Coalescer/Separator Stack— Vertical Housing Configuration

The liquid/liquid mixture enters the coalescing element and flows inside-to-outside. Small liquid droplets suspended in the continuous phase come together, or coalesce, as the mixture moves through the coalescer medium.

Contaminant-free liquid and large droplets of the dispersed phase flow toward the separator located directly below the coalescer stage. The flow is outsideto- inside. The separator medium is hydrophobic preventing the aqueous phase from entering the separator. Only the non-aqueous continuous phase fluid flows through the separator. The two liquids are removed by separate drain connections.