Gas-liquid separation method and separator therefor

Abstract

Methods and separator suitable for separating a gas from a liquid within a gas-liquid mixture. The separator includes a tank having a sidewall and oppositely-disposed endwalls that enclose an interior of the tank. An inlet to the tank directs a gas-liquid mixture against the sidewall of the tank within a first primary separation section to impart a circumferential flow direction to the mixture along the sidewall and initiate separation of a gas and liquid from the mixture. A reservoir located in a lower region of the tank collects the liquid separated from the mixture. A passage within a second primary separation section receives the gas separated from the gas-liquid mixture through an entrance thereof located in an upper region of the tank, and the passage directs flow of the gas into a secondary separation section, from which the gas exits the tank through an outlet.