Separator operation can be adversely affected by an accumulation of paraffin. Coalescing plates in the liquid section and mesh pad mist extractors in the gas section are particularly prone to plugging by accumulations of paraffin. Where it is determined that paraffin is an actual or potential problem, the use of plate-type or centrifugal mist extractors should be considered. Manways, handholes, and nozzles should be provided to allow steam, solvent, or other types of cleaning of the separator internals. The bulk temperature of the liquid should always be kept above the cloud point of the crude oil.
