Factors to be considered for separator configuration selection include:
• What separation quality is required by downstream equipment and processes?
• How well will extraneous material (e.g. sand, mud, corrosion products) be handled?
• How much plot space will be required?
• Will the separator be too tall for transport if skidded?
• Is there enough interface surface for 3-phase separation (e.g. gas/hydrocarbon/glycol liquid)?
• Can heating coils or sand jets be incorporated if required?
• How much surface area is available for degassing of separated liquid?
• Must surges in liquid flow be handled without large changes in level?
• Is large liquid retention volume necessary?
• What are the heat retention requirements (e.g. freeze protection)?
