Process for separating bituminous materials with solvent recovery

摘要

A process for separating a solvent from a bituminous material by pressure reduction without carry-over of bituminous material. The fluid-like phase comprising bituminous material and solvent is reduced in pressure by passage through a pressure reduction valve and introduced into a steam stripper. The pressure reduction vaporizes part of the solvent and also disperses a mist of fine bituminous particles in the solvent. The solvent and mist are withdrawn from the steam stripper and introduced into a separation zone wherein they are caused to flow countercurrently to another stream of fluid-like bituminous material. The fluid-like bituminous material contacts the solvent and scrubs the fine bituminous material particles therefrom. The solvent is withdrawn and recovered. The fluid-like stream containing the bituminous particles can be recycled until the concentration is such that additional particles are not separated from the solvent after which a portion is bled off and fresh fluid-like material is added.