Single-stage separation by use of packed mass media is generally used for hydrocarbons of lighter specific gravities and process streams where the removal of water and solids is of vital importance.Separation is first started when the liquid enters the vessel. Due to the substantially reduced velocity, free water starts to fall out by gravity. As it progresses through the mass packed media, further separation occurs by impingement of the water droplets on the media. At the same time, solids tend to fall out as the liquid enters the vessel at reduced velocity but are further removed by filtration as the flow continues through the mass media.
Settling zones permit a natural separation of water due to the difference in the specific ...