Re-entrainment is a phenomenon caused by high gas velocity at the gas-liquid interface of a separator. Momentum transfer from the gas to the liquid causes waves and ripples in the liquid, and then droplets are broken away from the liquid phase.
The general rule of thumb that calls for limiting the slenderness ratio to a maximum of 4 or 5 is applicable for half-full horizontal separators. Re-entrainment should be particularly considered for high-pressure separators sized on gas-capacity constraints. It is more likely at higher operating pressures (>1,000 psig) and higher oil viscosities (<30° API). For more specific limits, see Viles [1],
