Patent ID: 6080320
Filing Date: 2000-06-27
Classification: B01D,Y10S

Abstract:
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.