Figure 4-2 is a schematic of a vertical separator. In this configuration the inlet flow enters the vessel through the side. As in the horizontal separator, the inlet diverter does the initial gross separation. The liquid flows down to the liquid collection section of the vessel. Liquid continues to flow downward through this section to the liquid outlet. As the liquid reaches equilibrium, gas bubbles flow counter to the direction of the liquid flow and eventually migrate to the vapor space. The level controller and liquid dump valve operate the same as in a horizontal separator.
The gas flows over the inlet diverter and then vertically upward toward the gas outlet. In the gravity settling section the liquid drops fall vertically downward counter to the gas flow. Gas goes through the mist extractor section before it leaves the vessel. Pressure and level are maintained as in a horizontal separator.
