Method and apparatus for breaking emulsions of immiscible liquids by magnetostatic coalescence

摘要

A method and apparatus for breaking emulsions using magnetic fields to promote magnetostatic coalescence. The method includes use of a magnetic additive soluble or dispersable in the dispersed phase of the emulsion and a second additive for promoting coalescence of the dispersed phase droplets when acted on by a magnetic field. The apparatus includes a continuously operating high gradient magnetic coalescer having a plurality of magnetic elements therein oriented vertically which are magnetized transverse to their lengths for treating emulsions containing large amounts of internal phase. The magnetized elements serve to attract droplets of the internal phase to their surfaces, where they coalesce under magnetic compression force, and to provide a pathway for drainage of the coalesced droplets from the separator. Additionally the apparatus includes a magnetic field assisted settler for treating emulsions with intermediate water content. The apparatus further includes magnetic filters for removing the final amounts of the internal phase and for recovering the magnetic additives for reuse in the process.