초록 ▼

A column of solvent containing foaming contaminants is provided. Gas is injected into the solvent in the column so as to generate foam in the column. Foam generation continues so as to push the foam up in the column, wherein much of the solvent that is in the foam is allowed to drain back down into

A column of solvent containing foaming contaminants is provided. Gas is injected into the solvent in the column so as to generate foam in the column. Foam generation continues so as to push the foam up in the column, wherein much of the solvent that is in the foam is allowed to drain back down into the column. The drier foam is pushed out of the column and into a container. The foam is broken up into gas and the liquid foaming contaminants. The gas is vented and recirculated for injection into the column for foaming purposes. A portion of the liquid in the container is recirculated as a spray, which spray breaks up the foam. Another portion of the liquid in the container is recirculated into the column as reflux. Another portion of the liquid in the container is removed from the system in order to remove foaming contaminants therefrom.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method of removing foaming contaminants from solvent which is used to process hydrocarbon fluids, comprising the steps of:a) providing a column having a top end, the top end having an outlet that provides communication between the column and a container;b) introducing t

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method of removing foaming contaminants from solvent which is used to process hydrocarbon fluids, comprising the steps of:a) providing a column having a top end, the top end having an outlet that provides communication between the column and a container;b) introducing the contaminated solvent into the column;c) injecting gas into the contaminated solvent so as to generate foam in the column, the foam comprising the gas, the solvent and the foaming contaminants;d) continuing to generate foam so as to push the foam up the column, and allowing a portion of the solvent in the foam to drain back down the column, wherein the foam at the top end of the column has less solvent than the foam that is lower in the column, and pushing the foam out through the outlet and into the container;e) removing the solvent from the column by way of a location that is below where the gas is injected.