Abstract:
A mixer settler system is disclosed. The system comprises a mixer [ 110 ] configured for receiving an organic phase and an aqueous phase, the mixer [ 110 ] being further configured to maintain the organic phase and the aqueous phase in a single unstable emulsion phase, wherein mass transfer occurs between said organic phase and said aqueous phase; and, a column settler [ 120 ] which is configured to receive a single unstable emulsion phase from the mixer [ 110 ] via an emulsion inlet [ 125 ] and is also configured to separate the single unstable emulsion phase into a stable organic phase and a stable aqueous phase by virtue of coalescence; the column settler further comprising an organic outlet [ 121 ] above the emulsion inlet [ 125 ] and an aqueous outlet [ 123 ] below the emulsion inlet [ 125 ]; the column settler [ 120 ] further discouraging mass transfers within the unstable emulsion phase and further promoting coalescence of each of said stable organic phase and stable aqueous phase. A method of settling two immiscible liquids is further disclosed. The method comprises providing a mixer [ 110 ] configured for receiving an organic phase and an aqueous phase; maintaining the organic phase and the aqueous phase in a single unstable emulsion phase using the mixer [ 110 ], wherein mass transfer occurs between said organic phase and said aqueous phase; providing a column settler [ 120 ] which is configured to receive a single unstable emulsion phase from the mixer [ 110 ]; sending the single unstable emulsion phase to the column settler [ 120 ]; and separating the single unstable emulsion phase into a stable organic phase and a stable aqueous phase within the column settler [ 120 ] by virtue of coalescence.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    This invention relates to settling devices such as mixer settlers commonly used in solvent extraction processes, and more particularly to systems for and methods of quickly settling an organic phase from an aqueous phase, and vice-versa with minimal footprint and high throughput. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    Mixer settlers are a class of mineral process equipment used in solvent extraction processes. Mixer settlers generally consist of a first stage that mixes two immiscible phases together, followed by a quiescent settling stage that allows the phases to separate by gravity. 
         [0003]    To this end, bulky mixer settlers require, on average, larger than 15×30×1 meter settling stage equipment, and up to three pieces of mixer stage equipment (e.g., primary and auxiliary mixers). Each stage of the mixer stage performs a combined pumping and mixing action. Use of multiple stages allows a longer reaction time and also minimizes the short circuiting of unreacted material through the mixers. The settling stage is massive, requires very large footprints, and requires long distances of piping and tubing, therefore increasing manufacturing costs. 
         [0004]    Mass transfer devices, such as the ones shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,657,401, 4,595,571, 4,391,711, 5,466,375, 4,292,277, 4,221,658, and 801,679 do not promote settling, but are instead intended to keep two immiscible fluid phases suspended in a single unstable emulsion phase. For example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,657,401, the unstable emulsion phase is maintained within a column, and then moved to the top, where it exits and enters a separate settler unit. As another example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,595,571, the unstable emulsion phase is maintained within a column, and then moved to the top, where it exits and enters a separate settler unit. In another example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,391,711, a column is effected for liquid-liquid contact, rather than separating two immiscible liquids. In yet a further example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,466,375, shows a liquid-liquid extraction apparatus which is optimized for effecting liquid-liquid contact, rather than separating two immiscible liquids. Another example, is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,292,277, wherein a column is a Liquid-liquid contacting column which is designed for and promoting mass transfer which is necessary for extraction, rather than for quiescing, settling, and effecting separation of two mixed liquid phases. Additionally, U.S. Pat. No. 4,221,658 also discusses mixing within a column (not settling an emulsion phase entering a column), wherein mixing effects liquid-liquid contact between an aqueous medium and an organic hydrophobic liquid medium. Moreover, in U.S. Pat. No. 801,679, a number of liquid separations are effected based on density, rather than by a combination of density and hydrophobicity as with the present invention. 
       OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION 
       [0005]    It is, therefore, an object of the invention to provide an improved settler which reduces the necessary footprint area for a solvent extraction process. 
         [0006]    It is another object of the invention to provide a faster, shorter residence time for coalescence. 
         [0007]    It is another object of the invention to provide a system which has a higher throughput than conventional systems. 
         [0008]    It is another object of the invention to provide a system for coalescing which reduces or eliminates entrainment, and hence, reduces or eliminates crud formation. 
         [0009]    It is yet another object of the invention to provide a significantly improved method of settling two immiscible fluid phases which are suspended in a single unstable emulsion phase. 
         [0010]    It is a further object of the invention to provide a design which can be applied across many solvent extraction processes as well as other non-related processes. 
         [0011]    These and other objects of the invention will be apparent from the drawings and description herein. Although every object of the invention is believed to be attained by at least one embodiment of the invention, there is not necessarily any one embodiment of the invention that achieves all of the objects of the invention. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0012]    As will be discussed herein, the present invention includes improved methods of coalescing an emulsion of two immiscible fluids, particularly within mixer settlers. In particular, a mixer settler system is disclosed. The mixer settler system comprises a mixer configured for receiving an organic phase and an aqueous phase, the mixer being further configured to maintain the organic phase and the aqueous phase in a single unstable emulsion phase, wherein mass transfer occurs between said organic phase and said aqueous phase. The mixer settler system further comprises a column settler which is configured to receive a single unstable emulsion phase from the mixer via an emulsion inlet and also configured to separate the single unstable emulsion phase into a stable organic phase and a stable aqueous phase by virtue of coalescence. The column settler may further comprise an organic outlet above the emulsion inlet and an aqueous outlet below the emulsion inlet. The column settler may be further configured to discourage mass transfers within the unstable emulsion phase. The column settler may be further configured for promoting coalescence of each of said stable organic phase and stable aqueous phase. 
         [0013]    The column settler may further be provided with gentle agitation means. In some embodiments, the gentle agitation means may comprise at least one baffle. The at least one baffle may be round, helical, flat, vertically oriented, or oriented at an angle. In some embodiments, the at least one baffle may comprise a solid portion and at least one open portion. The at least one open portion may be round, elongated, or may comprise a slot or slit, without limitation. The at least one baffle may comprise a plurality of open portions. In some embodiments, the gentle agitation means may comprise reciprocating means. The reciprocating means may comprise a shaft that moves axially up and down within said column settler. In some embodiments, the shaft may comprise one or more baffles. In yet further embodiments, the gentle agitation means may comprise slow rotation means. In some embodiments, the slow rotation means may comprise a shaft that is configured to slowly move in a clockwise or counter clock-wise direction within the column settler. The shaft may slowly move in a clockwise and then slowly in a counter clock-wise direction within said column settler, according to some embodiments. According to some embodiments, the gentle agitation means may further comprise slow rotation means and reciprocating means. Preferably, the gentle agitation means does not form an emulsion, maintain an emulsion, or facilitate mass transfer, but rather improves coalescence of immiscible phases within the settling column. 
         [0014]    A method of settling two immiscible liquids is further disclosed. The method comprises providing a mixer configured for receiving an organic phase and an aqueous phase; maintaining the organic phase and the aqueous phase in a single unstable emulsion phase using the mixer, allowing mass transfer to occur between said organic phase and said aqueous phase while in the mixer; providing a column settler downstream of the mixer which is configured to receive a single unstable emulsion phase from the mixer; sending the single unstable emulsion phase to the column settler; and, separating the single unstable emulsion phase into a stable organic phase and a stable aqueous phase within the column settler by virtue of coalescence. 
         [0015]    In preferred embodiments, the column settler may further comprise an organic outlet above an emulsion inlet and an aqueous outlet below the emulsion inlet. The method may also comprise the step of discouraging mass transfers within the unstable emulsion phase after the unstable emulsion phase enters the column settler. The method may further comprise the step of promoting coalescence of each of said stable organic phase and stable aqueous phase. Moreover, the method may comprise the step of separating the single unstable emulsion phase into a stable organic phase and a stable aqueous phase within the column settler using gravity. According to certain embodiments, the step of separating the single unstable emulsion phase into a stable organic phase and a stable aqueous phase within the column settler by virtue of coalescence comprises applying gentle agitation within the column settler. The gentle agitation may comprise reciprocation of a shaft that moves axially up and down within said column settler. The shaft may comprise one or more baffles that also move axially up and down within said column settler. The one or more baffles may comprise one or more open portions. In some embodiments, the step of applying gentle agitation comprises slowly rotating a shaft. In some embodiments, the step of slowly rotating a shaft further comprises slowly rotating a shaft in a clockwise and/or counter clock-wise direction within said column settler. In some embodiments, the slowly rotating shaft may comprise one or more baffles. In some embodiments, the step of applying gentle agitation may comprise slowly rotating a shaft in a clockwise direction for a duration, stopping the clockwise rotation, and then slowly rotating the shaft in a counter clock-wise direction within said column settler. In some embodiments, the step of applying gentle agitation may comprise slowly rotating an inner shaft clockwise and simultaneously rotating an outer shaft counter-clockwise. In some embodiments, the step of applying gentle agitation may comprise slowly rotating an inner shaft clockwise or counter-clockwise and not moving or otherwise rotating an outer shaft. In some embodiments, the step of applying gentle agitation may comprise slowly rotating an outer shaft clockwise or counter-clockwise and not moving or otherwise rotating an inner shaft. In some embodiments, the method may comprise reversing the direction of an inner shaft and an outer shaft. The inner shaft and/or outer shaft may comprise one or more baffles. In some embodiments, the step of applying gentle agitation within the column settler may comprise both slow rotation and reciprocation of a shaft, for instance, using a piston to move the shaft axially. 
         [0016]    In some embodiments, a rotating and/or reciprocating shaft may comprise one or more baffles. In some embodiments, the step of applying gentle agitation within the column settler may comprise providing one or more stationary baffles to portions of the column. In some embodiments, the step of applying gentle agitation within the column settler may further comprise slow rotation and/or reciprocation of a shaft adjacent to said stationary baffles. 
         [0017]    In some embodiments, a mixer settler system may comprise a spiral downcomber or centrifugal coalescer, and a mixer configured for receiving an organic phase and an aqueous phase; wherein the mixer may be further configured to maintain the organic phase and the aqueous phase in a single unstable emulsion phase, wherein mass transfer may occur between said organic phase and said aqueous phase. According to some embodiments, the mixer settler system may further comprise a column settler. According to some embodiments, the mixer settler system may further comprise a pre-conditioner, for example, a pre-conditioner comprising a tank and an inlet feed pipe, and a lower outlet pipe. In some embodiments, for example, the tank of the pre-conditioner may comprise a cyclonic head tank, and the inlet feed pipe of the pre-conditioner may comprise an volute feed pipe. In some embodiments, a column settler may comprise a flared column tank wall. The flared column tank wall may, in some embodiments, flare outwardly at its ends ( FIG. 17 ). In some embodiments, the flared column tank wall may narrow at its ends ( FIG. 18 ). 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0018]      FIG. 1  shows a mixer-settler system  100  according to some embodiments; 
           [0019]      FIGS. 2-4  are detailed views of middle, lower, and upper portions of the column settler  120  of  FIG. 1 , respectively; 
           [0020]      FIG. 5  is a perspective isometric view of a baffle  124  shown in  FIGS. 1-4 , and according to some non-limiting embodiments; 
           [0021]      FIG. 6  shows a shaft  132  and baffle  134  arrangement for a column settler  120  according to some non-limiting embodiments; 
           [0022]      FIG. 7  shows a shaft  142  and baffle  144  arrangement for a column settler  120  according to some non-limiting embodiments; 
           [0023]      FIG. 8  shows a shaft  152  and baffle  154  arrangement for a column settler  120  according to some non-limiting embodiments; 
           [0024]      FIG. 9  shows a shaft  162  and baffle  164  arrangement for a column settler  120  according to some non-limiting embodiments; 
           [0025]      FIGS. 10-13  are schematic diagrams showing possible shaft and baffle movements and configurations within a column according various non-limiting embodiments; and, 
           [0026]      FIGS. 14-16  show yet another non-limiting example of a baffle  624  which may be practiced with certain embodiments. 
           [0027]      FIG. 17  shows yet another non-limiting example of a mixer-settler system  100  according to some embodiments, wherein a column settler  120  may comprise flared, fluted, or tapered walls, or may otherwise comprise an “hourglass” shape, without limitation. 
           [0028]      FIG. 18  shows yet another non-limiting example of a mixer-settler system  100  according to some embodiments, wherein a column settler  120  may comprise flared, fluted, or tapered walls, or may otherwise comprise an “center bulged” shape, without limitation. 
           [0029]      FIG. 19  shows a mixer-settler system  100  according to some embodiments; wherein a spiral downcomber or centrifugal coalescer  810  may be utilized to pre-treat an emulsion phase entering a column settler  120 , without limitation. 
           [0030]      FIG. 20  shows a mixer-settler system  100  according to some embodiments; wherein a spiral downcomber or centrifugal coalescer  810  may be utilized to pre-treat an emulsion phase entering a column settler  120 ; and wherein a pre-conditioner  710  may be used to remove entrained air before an emulsion phase enters the downcomber or centrifugal coalescer  810 , without limitation. 
           [0031]      FIG. 21  suggests different manners in which a column settler  120  may be “functionally graded”, for example, wherein a column settler may be provided with one or more features as a function of coalescence rate and/or droplet size distributions, without limitation. 
           [0032]      FIG. 22  suggests potential manners in which a column settler  120  may be functionally graded, for example, to address asymmetrical collections of organic phase droplets on walls of a column settler  120 ; wherein one or more types of baffles may be provided; and wherein the one or more baffles may have varying axial thickness, varying number, and/or permeability/porosities, without limitation. 
           [0033]      FIG. 23  suggests a skid-mounted mixer-settler system  100  according to some embodiments; which may be utilized in a pilot test environment, without limitation; wherein an optional mixer  110  may comprise a redundant mixer which may serve to maintain an unstable emulsion phase received from a larger upstream mixer (not shown), without limitation. 
           [0034]      FIG. 24  suggests one non-limiting embodiment of a motor  129  and respective transmission/gearbox  127  which may be utilized according to some embodiments, wherein in the particular embodiment shown, a crank mechanism (or cam and yoke system) may be provided for reciprocating movement of a column shaft  122 , and wherein the crank mechanism (or cam and yoke system not shown) may be infinitely adjustable (e.g., via screw thread or link turnbuckle), and/or finitely adjustable (e.g., via a number of provided threaded holes provided to a crank wheel). 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0035]    Turning now to  FIGS. 1-5 , a mixer-settler system  100  is provided, the system having a mass transfer step  101  and a gravity settling step  102 . The mass transfer step  101  comprises receiving a first organic phase  103  and receiving a first aqueous phase  104  into a mixer  110 . The mixer  110  has an organic inlet  111  and an aqueous inlet  113  for receiving the respective first organic phase  103  and first aqueous phase  104  into the mixer  110 . The first organic phase  103  and first aqueous phase  104  may, via high energy inputs, be mixed into a mixed unstable emulsion phase  105  via a rotating mixing shaft  112  and impeller  114  provided to the mixer  110 . The mixing shaft  112  is rotated via a motor  129  and an optional transmission, gearbox, or variable frequency drive (VFD)  127 . Preferably, the RPM of the mixing shaft  112  and the impeller  114  design is configured for mixing the first organic phase  103  with the first aqueous phase  104 , and/or maintaining a mixed unstable emulsion phase  105 . The mixer  110  may further comprise a mixer tank  116  configured to hold or otherwise maintain the mixed unstable emulsion phase  105  in suspension for a predetermined residence time, at which liquid-liquid contact is optimized for mass transfer between the first organic  103  and first aqueous  104  phases. 
         [0036]    The mixer  110  further comprises an emulsion outlet  115 , for sending the unstable emulsion phase  105  to a column settler  120  associated with the gravity settling step  102 . The unstable emulsion phase  105  enters the column settler  120 , e.g., via an emulsion inlet  125 , which may be provided to a central region of the column settler  120  as shown. The emulsion inlet  125  may be a T-fitting, which is preferably provided in a volute configuration as shown. The volute configuration preferably spirals in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. In some embodiments, the volute configuration of the emulsion inlet  125  spirals in the same direction as the mixing shaft  112  turns (if applicable), so that energy associated with the influent mixed unstable emulsion phase  105  may dissipate within the column gradually. The column settler  120  may comprise an elongated, vertically-extending column tank  126  having minimal footprint. The column settler  120  may further comprise a motor  129  and associated transmission, gearbox, or VFD  127 , wherein the motor  129  turns and/or displaces a gentle agitation shaft  122  within the column settler  120 . The turns and/or displacements may be caused by a motor armature turning, and/or the displacements may be caused by one or more axial inputs, for instance, an extendable and/or retractable cylinder  470  or piston  471  operatively connected to the shaft  122 . The shaft  122  within the column settler  120  may comprise one or more baffles  124 , without limitation, as shown. In some embodiments, the baffles  124  may comprise one or more open portions  124   b  within a solid portion  124   a . The one or more open portions  124   b  may be in any number, size, orientation, shape, configuration, or combination, without limitation. The baffles  124  may be stationary and provided in any form or fashion within the column tank  126 , and/or the baffles  124  may be provided to portions of the slowly moving gentle agitation shaft  122 . The column settler  120  may further comprise an aqueous outlet  123  provided at the bottom of the column tank  126 , which is configured to emit a second stabilized aqueous phase  107  from the column tank  126 . The column settler  120  may further comprise an organic outlet  121  provided at the top of the column tank  126 , which is configured to emit a second stabilized organic phase  106  from the column tank  126 . Due to its elongated nature and large vertical stature, one or more flanges  128  or other tube or piping adapters may be used to connect various components of the column settler  120  together, or otherwise assemble or disassemble the column settler  120 . For example, the flanges  128  may be adapted to receive a sleeve, section, or wall portion of a column tank  126 ; or, as shown in  FIG. 2 , the flanges  128  may be adapted to capture a T-fitting or other junction device. As shown in  FIG. 3 , flanges  128  may sealed off and bolted to a floor. As shown in  FIG. 4 , flanges  128  may be used to bolt the column settler  120  to a motor  129 , transmission  127 , ceiling, or other structural column support member. 
         [0037]    Turning to  FIG. 5 , each baffle  124  may be configured with means for an unstable emulsion phase  105  to come into contact with, and/or pass through open portions  124   b . The open portions  124   b  may be evenly distributed as shown, or they may comprise different patterns, shapes, arrangements, combinations, and/or variations in size, without limitation. Preferably, a baffle  124  design will provide the best coalescing rates for a particular incoming unstable emulsion phase  105 . The baffles may be stagnant or configured to move, e.g., by virtue of being provided to a reciprocating, vibrating, rotating, moving, and/or otherwise agitated shaft  122 . The rate (e.g., frequency of oscillations, revolutions per minute) at which the baffle and/or shaft  122  moves is less than what would be necessary to mix a first organic phase  103  and a first aqueous phase  104  as does the mixer  110 . Preferably, the rate is positive, and just above zero, where maximum coalescence is obtained, gravity settling of the second stabilized organic phase  106  and second stabilized aqueous phase  107  out of the unstable emulsion phase  105  is accelerated, and substantially no further mixing or additional mass transfer occurs within the column settler  120 . 
         [0038]    Turning now to  FIG. 6 , a column settler discussed herein may comprise a helical baffle  134  or number of helical baffles  134  or baffle portions. The helical baffle  134  may be provided to a wall portion of the column tank  126 , and/or to a gentle agitation shaft  132  as shown. The baffle  134  may comprise a solid portion  134   a  and one or more open portions  134   b  provided to the solid portion  134   a . The helical baffle  134  may slowly rotate in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. While not shown, the helical baffle  134  may reverse in direction halfway along or a part of the way along the shaft  132 . In this regard, a helix direction may be different for areas of the column  126  which are configured to hold a different phases  106 ,  107 . Alternatively, portions of the shaft  122  may have one or more other types or portions of non-helical baffles such as the baffles  124  shown in  FIGS. 1-5 . 
         [0039]    Turning now to  FIG. 7 , a column settler discussed herein may comprise one or more paddles or radial baffles  144 . The baffles  144  may be provided to a wall of the column tank  126 , and/or to a gentle agitation shaft  142  as shown. The baffles  144  may comprise a solid portion  144   a  and one or more open portions  144   b  provided to the solid portion  144   a . The radial baffles  144  may slowly rotate in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction to gently push or tug at an unstable emulsion phase  105 , a stabilized organic phase  106 , and/or a second stabilized aqueous phase  107 , without causing mixing, and while facilitating coalescence. Moreover, the radial baffles  144  may slice vertically through one or more phases  105 ,  106 ,  107 , if the shaft  142  reciprocates along an axis of shaft  142 . The reciprocation motion may comprise a small amplitude, or a large amplitude. The reciprocation motion may also comprise a high frequency or a low frequency. In some preferred embodiments, reciprocation motions having a higher frequency will have a lower amplitude (i.e., stroke). In any event, energy imparted through motion to the phases  105 ,  106 ,  107 , is minimal so as to not promote mixing or continued suspension of the two second stabilized phases  106 ,  107 . In other preferred embodiments, reciprocation motions having a lower frequency will have a higher amplitude (i.e., stroke). While not shown, the vertically-arranged radially-extending baffles  144  may further comprise horizontally-arranged, spirally-extending baffles, swept baffles, pitched baffles, or the like in any configuration without limitation. In some regards, baffle  144  directions, sizes, orientations, patterns, and/or configurations may be different for certain areas of the column settler  120  than for other areas. For example, sections of a column tank  126  which are configured to hold a second stabilized organic phase  106  may comprise certain baffle  144  arrangements and/or features, and sections of a column tank  126  which are configured to hold a second stabilized aqueous phase  107  may comprise different baffle arrangements and/or features than said certain baffle  144  arrangements. Alternatively, sections of a column tank  126  which are configured to receive an incoming unstable emulsion phase  105  may comprise baffles or no baffles, or baffle arrangements which are different than other sections of the column settler  120 . 
         [0040]    Turning now to  FIG. 8 , a column settler discussed herein may comprise one or more paddles or pitched blade baffles  154 . The baffles  154  may be provided to a wall of the column tank  126 , and/or to a gentle agitation shaft  152  as shown. Each of the baffles  154  may comprise a solid portion  154   a  and one or more open portions  154   b  provided to the solid portion  154   a . The one or more open portions  154   b  may comprise one or more second different open portion  154   c  which are, for instance, smaller or larger in size, or of a different shape or orientation. 
         [0041]    The baffles  154  may be attached to the gentle agitation shaft  152  via a hub  157  and one or more mounts  159  positioned between the hub  157  and baffles  154 . The pitched baffles  154  may slowly rotate in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction to gently push or tug at an unstable emulsion phase  105 , a stabilized organic phase  106 , and/or a second stabilized aqueous phase  107 , without causing mixing, and while facilitating coalescence. As shown, the pitch of baffles may change along an axis of the gentle agitation shaft  152 . Pitches of baffles  154  may alternate as shown, or gradually increase, or may be randomized. Moreover, some of the pitched baffles  154  may slice through one or more phases  105 ,  106 ,  107 , differently as the shaft  152  reciprocates along an axis of shaft  152  and/or rotates clockwise or counter-clockwise within the column settler  120 . Reciprocation motion may comprise small or large amplitudes, and/or high or low frequencies. Revolving motion may comprise very low to moderate RPMs. In some preferred embodiments, reciprocation motions having a higher frequency will have a lower amplitude (i.e., stroke). In any event, energy imparted through motion to the phases  105 ,  106 ,  107 , is minimal so as to not promote mixing or continued suspension of the two second stabilized phases  106 ,  107 . In other preferred embodiments, reciprocation motions having a lower frequency will have a higher amplitude (i.e., stroke). While not shown, the vertically-arranged radially-extending baffles  154  may further comprise horizontally-arranged, spirally-extending baffles, swept baffles, vertically or horizontally-oriented baffles, curved baffles, or the like in any configuration without limitation. In some regards, baffle  154  directions, sizes, orientations, patterns, and/or configurations may be different for certain areas of the column settler  120  than others. For example, sections of a column tank  126  which are configured to hold a second stabilized organic phase  106  may comprise certain baffle  154  arrangements and/or features, and sections of a column tank which are configured to hold a second stabilized aqueous phase  107  may comprise different baffle arrangements and/or features. Alternatively, sections of a column tank  126  which are configured to receive an incoming unstable emulsion phase  105  may comprise baffles or no baffles, or baffle arrangements which are different than other sections of the column settler  120 . 
         [0042]    Turning now to  FIG. 9 , a column settler discussed herein may comprise one or more paddles or pitched blade baffles  164 . The baffles  164  may be provided to a wall of the column tank  126 , and/or to a gentle agitation shaft  162  as shown. Each of the baffles  164  may comprise a solid portion  164   a  and one or more open portions  164   b  provided to the solid portion  164   a . The one or more open portions  164   b  shown comprise elongated slits or slots, but may comprise one or more second different open portions (not shown) which are, for instance, smaller or larger in size, or of a different shape or orientation. 
         [0043]    The baffles  154  may be attached to the gentle agitation shaft  162  via a hub  167  and one or more mounts  169  positioned between the hub  167  and baffles  164 . The pitched baffles  164  may slowly rotate in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction to gently push or tug at an unstable emulsion phase  105 , a stabilized organic phase  106 , and/or a second stabilized aqueous phase  107 , without causing mixing, without promoting mass transfer, and while facilitating coalescence and separation of the organic  106  and aqueous  107  phases. As shown, the pitch of baffles  164  may stay the same along an axis of the gentle agitation shaft  162 . Pitches of baffles  164  may alternate as shown in  FIG. 8 , not alternate as shown in  FIG. 9 , or gradually increase, or may be randomized. Moreover, some of the pitched baffles  164  may slice through one or more phases  105 ,  106 ,  107  differently as the shaft  162  reciprocates along an axis of shaft  162  and/or rotates clockwise or counter-clockwise within the column settler  120 . Furthermore, baffles  164  may be provided to shaft  162  with different spacing or similar spacing therebetween. Reciprocation motion may comprise small or large amplitudes, and/or high or low frequencies. Revolving motion may comprise very low to moderate RPMs. In some preferred embodiments, reciprocation motions having a higher frequency may have a lower amplitude (i.e., stroke). In other preferred embodiments, reciprocation motions having a lower frequency may have a higher amplitude (i.e., stroke). While not shown, the vertically-arranged radially-extending baffles  164  may further comprise horizontally-arranged, spirally-extending baffles, swept baffles, vertically or horizontally-oriented baffles, curved baffles, or the like in any configuration without limitation. In some regards, baffles  164  directions, sizes, orientations, patterns, and configurations may be different for certain areas of the column settler  120  than for others. For example, sections of a column tank  126  which are configured to hold a second stabilized organic phase  106  may comprise certain baffle  164  arrangements and/or features, and sections of a column tank  126  which are configured to hold a second stabilized aqueous phase  107  may comprise different baffle arrangements and/or features. Alternatively, sections of a column tank  126  which are configured to receive an incoming unstable emulsion phase  105  may comprise baffles or no baffles, or baffle arrangements which are different than other sections of the column settler  120 . 
         [0044]    Turning now, to  FIGS. 10-13 , various embodiments of a column settler  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520  are shown. In  FIG. 10 , a column settler  220  may comprise an organic outlet  221 , an aqueous outlet  223 , and an emulsion inlet  225  for receiving an unstable emulsion phase  105 . The column settler  220  may also comprise a column tank  226  within which an inner gentle agitation shaft  222 ′ and an outer gentle agitation shaft  222 ″ move. The movement of the inner  222 ′ and outer  222 ″ gentle agitation shafts may comprise reciprocation, rotation, rotation reversal agitation as shown, or various combinations thereof in any sequence. In other words, in some preferred embodiments, a first transmission, gearbox, or VFD  227  associated with a first motor  229  may rotate an inner gentle agitation shaft  222 ′ clockwise, and a second transmission, gearbox, or VFD  227  associated with a second motor  229  may rotate an outer gentle agitation shaft  222 ″ counter-clockwise. One or more baffles  224  may be provided to the inner  222 ′ and outer  222 ″ gentle agitation shafts as shown, and/or one or more baffles  224  may be provided to various wall portions of the column tank  226 . 
         [0045]    As shown in  FIG. 11 , a column settler  320  may comprises an organic outlet  321 , an aqueous outlet  323 , and an emulsion inlet  325  for receiving an unstable emulsion phase  105 . The column settler  320  may also comprise a column tank  326  within which an inner gentle agitation shaft  322 ′ and an outer gentle agitation shaft  322 ″ move. The outer gentle agitation shaft  322 ″ may comprise small openings (not shown) for one or more baffles  324  provided to the inner gentle agitation shaft  322 ′ to pass with clearance. In such an embodiment, the inner  322 ′ and outer  322 ″ shafts may move independent of each other in the same direction or opposite directions of rotation. Movement between the inner  322 ′ and outer  322 ″ shafts may be limited by the size of openings within the outer  322 ″ shaft which make clearance for the baffles  324  associated with the inner  322 ′ shaft. 
         [0046]    The movement of the inner  322 ′ and outer  322 ″ gentle agitation shafts may comprise reciprocation, rotation, or rotation reversal agitation as shown. In other words, a first transmission, gearbox, or VFD  327  associated with a first motor  329  may rotate an inner gentle agitation shaft  322 ′ an angular distance clockwise, and a second transmission, gearbox, or VFD  327  associated with a second motor  329  may rotate an outer gentle agitation shaft  322 ″ an angular distance counter-clockwise, before stopping and reversing rotations. One or more baffles  324  may be provided to the inner  322 ′ and outer  322 ″ gentle agitation shafts as shown, and/or one or more baffles  324  may be provided to various wall portions of the column tank  326  (not shown). In the instant case shown, the second motor  329  and the first motor  329  may be provided to the same side of a column settler  320 , wherein a second transmission, gearbox, or VFD  327  is not axially-aligned with the outer  322 ″ gentle agitation shaft. For example, the second transmission, gearbox, or VFD  327  may comprise a spur gear and be axially aligned parallel with an axis of the outer  322 ″ gentle agitation shaft (not shown). Or, the outer  322 ″ gentle agitation shaft may comprise a mitered, beveled, or worm ring gear and be positioned outside of axial alignment with the second transmission, gearbox, or VFD  327  as shown in  FIG. 11 . 
         [0047]    As shown in  FIG. 12 , a column settler  420  may comprise an organic outlet  421 , an aqueous outlet  423 , and an emulsion inlet  425  for receiving an unstable emulsion phase  105 . The column settler  420  may also comprise a column tank  426  within which a gentle agitation shaft  422  may move. The shaft  422  may comprise one or more baffles  424  provided to the gentle agitation shaft  422  to pass with clearance. In such an embodiment, the shaft  422  may move in any direction, for example, an up or down direction, and/or in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. Movement between the shaft  422  and portions of the column tank  426 , including baffles  424 , which may be provided to walls of the column tank  426 , may be limited to reduce energy, reduce the potential for mixing and/or mass transfer within the column settler  420 , to promote coalescence, and speed up coalescence. 
         [0048]    The movement of the gentle agitation shaft  422  may comprise reciprocation, rotation, or rotation reversal agitation as shown. In other words, a transmission, gearbox, or VFD  427  associated with a motor  429  may rotate the gentle agitation shaft  422  clockwise or counter clockwise. A cylinder  470  having a piston rod  471  operatively coupled to the motor  429  may comprise a rod  471  having a motor  429  secured thereto. In this regard, displacement of the cylinder rod  471  may be configured to move the shaft  422  in and out of (i.e., up and down) the column  426 —including directions extending along the shaft  422  axis. One or more baffles  424  may be provided to the gentle agitation shaft  422  as shown, and/or one or more baffles  424  may be provided to various wall portions of the column tank  426  (not shown). In the instant case shown, one or more open portions associated with the baffles  424  may differ depending on baffle  424  locations within the column  420 . In some preferred embodiments, no motor  429 , and no transmission, gearbox, or VFD  427  associated with said motor  429  may be provided, wherein the gentle agitation shaft  422  is purely connected to the piston rod  471  of cylinder  470 , and wherein the gentle agitation shaft  422  moves slowly up and down within the column so as to speed coalescence, but not mix the separating phases  106 ,  107 . Cylinder  470  may be of the pneumatic or hydraulic type, without limitation. 
         [0049]    In other preferred embodiments, no cylinder  470  may be provided, and a transmission, gearbox, or VFD  427  associated with a motor  429  may be adapted to convert rotational motion into reciprocating motion. Such mechanisms may include, for example, a four stop reciprocating mechanism, a Scotch yoke, a Scotch yoke mechanism with dwell at both ends, a Scotch yoke mechanism with dwell at one end, a rack and pinion mechanism, a linkage (e.g., a four-bar linkage), a rotary to linear mechanism, a rack and pinion reciprocate mechanism, a cam mechanism (e.g., with or without pause), and a one rotation two-stroke mechanism, without limitation. In other words, the gentle agitation shaft  422  may be operatively connected with a shaft of a motor  429 , wherein a transmission, gearbox, or VFD  427  converts rotary motion of the motor&#39;s  429  shaft to a reciprocating motion applied to the gentle agitation shaft  422 . The gentle agitation shaft  422  may move slowly up and down within the column  426  so as to speed up coalescence, but not mix the separating phases  106 ,  107 . 
         [0050]    As shown in  FIG. 13 , a column settler  520  associated with a gravity settling step  102  may comprise an organic outlet  521 , aqueous outlet  523 , and emulsion inlet  525 . A motor  529  operatively coupled with a transmission, gearbox, or VFD  527  may control movement of a gentle agitation shaft  522 . As shown, the gentle agitation shaft  522  may comprise a movable shaft within a stationary baffle  524  which is secured to the column tank  526  and which may generally be immovable relative to the column tank  526 . The gentle agitation shaft  522  may comprises one or more baffles  524  which are movable with respect to the column tank  526 . In some preferred embodiments, the movable gentle agitation shaft  522  may comprise a first type of baffle  524  and the stationary baffle  524  may comprise a second different type of baffle, without limitation. As shown, a plurality of baffles  524  may be provided. 
         [0051]      FIGS. 14-16  show a baffle  624  which may be provided to a gentle agitation shaft according to certain embodiments. The baffle  624  may be particularly useful for single direction rotational movements within a column settler  120 ; however, it is envisaged that the baffle  624  may be equally utilized with reciprocating movements and/or reversing-rotational movements within a column settler  120 . The baffle  624  comprises a solid portion  624   a  surrounding a hub  667 , one or more first open portions  624   b , and one or more second different open portions  624   c . The one or more first open portions  624   b  may, as shown, comprise upwardly-angled lips which scoop down denser aqueous phase droplets settling on upper surface portions of the baffle  624 . The one or more second different open portions  624   c  may comprise downwardly-angled lips which scoop up lighter organic phase droplets rising to lower surface portions of the baffle  624 . In other words, accumulated organic under the baffle  624  may be forced upward toward organic outlet  121  via the one or more second open portions  624   c , and aqueous accumulated on top of the baffle may be forced or otherwise allowed to settle downward toward aqueous outlet  123  via the one or more first open portions  624 . Preferably, as shown, the pitch of each of the first  624   b  and second  624   c  open portions is the same; however, the pitch may alternate between positive and negative, without limitation. 
         [0052]      FIG. 17  shows yet another non-limiting example of a mixer-settler system  100  according to some embodiments, wherein a column settler  120  may comprise flared wall portions, fluted wall portions, and/or tapered wall portions, or may otherwise comprise an “hourglass” shape, without limitation. In some embodiments, a column settler  120  may comprise flared, fluted, and/or tapered ends. In some preferred embodiments, the column walls may widen or may otherwise expand in diameter as a distance from a centralized emulsion inlet  125  (e.g., volute entry) increases. In some embodiments, the transition between changes in column wall diameters may be abrupt (e.g., stepped or shelved, not shown) or smooth (as shown), for improved flow and/or minimized eddy currents. In this regard, a mixed unstable emulsion phase  105  entering the column settler  120  may initially flow with higher velocity, and may slow down prior to exiting the column settler  120  as substantially single-phase organic  106  and/or aqueous  107  solutions, without limitation. It is suspected that by slowing down solution as it flows upwards and/or downwards within the column  120 , finer droplet size entrainments may have a longer residence time to coalesce and/or to reverse direction within the column settler  120 . The varying shape of the column settler  120  walls may create a varying velocity profile of flow within the column settler  120 , which may assist with mitigating entrainments in the organic  106  and/or aqueous  107  phases exiting the column settler  120 , without limitation. It should be understood that in some instances, only a top portion of a column settler  120  may be fluted, for example, if most entrainments of aqueous occur within a substantially organic phase  106 , without limitation. 
         [0053]    Regarding  FIG. 18 , the opposite may be true, wherein a column settler  120  may comprise flared wall portions, fluted wall portions, and/or tapered wall portions, or may otherwise comprise an “center bulged” shape, without limitation. In some embodiments, for instance, a column settler  120  may comprise a flared, fluted, and/or tapered center, wherein the column settler  120  may be wider at its center and narrower at its ends. The wider column settler inlet may provide for more residence time initially, without limitation. 
         [0054]      FIG. 19  shows a mixer-settler system  100  according to some embodiments; wherein a spiral downcomber or centrifugal coalescer  810  may be utilized to pre-treat an emulsion phase entering a column settler  120 , without limitation. In some non-limiting embodiments, gravity (and/or a pump in some embodiments) may feed a mixed unstable emulsion phase  105  into an inlet of the spiral downcomber or centrifugal coalescer  810 . As shown, a control valve may be employed and adjusted to ensure proper inflows of organic phase  103  and/or aqueous phase  104  to the mixer  110 , for example, based upon flow rates of the mixed unstable emulsion phase  105  leaving the mixer  110 . As the mixed unstable emulsion phase  105  traverses the spiral downcomber or centrifugal coalescer  810 , coalescing may begin, and air may be released from solution. A semi-coalesced emulsion  705  exiting the spiral downcomber or centrifugal coalescer  810  may be subsequently fed into a column separator  120  in a manner consistent with those described and/or shown herein. In this regard, column  120  flow rates may be improved, and/or column  120  entrainments (including air entrainments) may be minimized, without limitation. 
         [0055]      FIG. 20  shows a mixer-settler system  100  according to some embodiments; wherein a spiral downcomber or centrifugal coalescer  810  may be utilized to pre-treat an emulsion phase  705  entering a column settler  120 ; wherein a pre-conditioner  710  may be used in a first step to remove entrained air, without limitation. In other words, mixed unstable emulsion phase  105  may exit a mixer  110  under the power of gravity (and/or via one or more pumps, not shown), and may enter a pre-conditioner, such as a tank having an involute inlet  725 , without limitation. The pre-conditioner  710  may serve to de-aerate and/or decant incoming mixed unstable emulsion phase  105 , without limitation. A de-aerated mixed unstable emulsion phase  704  may leave the pre-conditioner  710  (preferably by gravity, without limitation), and may feed a spiral downcomber or centrifugal coalescer  810  which may further de-aerate and/or coalesce droplets within the de-aerated mixed unstable emulsion phase  704 . After leaving the spiral downcomber or centrifugal coalescer  810 , a semi-coalesced emulsion phase  705  may enter a column separator  120  as described herein, without limitation. In this regard, column  120  flow rates may be improved, and/or column  120  entrainments (including air entrainments) may be minimized, without limitation. In some preferred embodiments, the pre-conditioner  710  may comprise a cyclonic head tank with an involute feed pipe, which may be configured to establish a swirling motion within the tank, for example, in the same direction as the spiral downcomber or centrifugal coalescer  810 . The pre-conditioner  710  may, without limitation, serve to release air, and/or develop head pressure to feed the downcomber or centrifugal coalescer  810  and subsequent column  120 . 
         [0056]      FIG. 21  suggests different manners in which a column settler  120  may be functionally graded, for example, as a function of coalescence rate and/or droplet size distributions, without limitation. In some embodiments, central portions of a column settler  120  which may be close or adjacent to an inlet  125  portion of the column settler  120 , may comprise less motion, more baffles, less vibrations, smaller frequency gain(s), smaller baffles, and/or larger pore sizes of openings provided to baffles, without limitation. In some embodiments, end portions (e.g., upper and lower portions) of a column settler  120  which may be close or adjacent to organic and/or aqueous outlet portions of the column settler  120 , may comprise more motion, a fewer number of baffles, more vibration, higher frequency gain(s), larger baffles, and/or smaller pore sizes of openings provided to baffles, without limitation. It should be understood that the opposite of the aforementioned may be true, without limitation. Various permutations and/or combinations of the shown and described variables are anticipated, without limitation. 
         [0057]      FIG. 22  suggests potential manners in which a column settler  120  may be functionally graded, for example, to address asymmetrical collection of organic phase droplets on walls of a column settler  120  adjacent central and/or end portions of a column settler  120 . The asymmetrical gathering of droplets may be mitigated, for example, by providing one or more types of baffles  724 ,  824 ,  924  (which may have varying axial thickness, configurations, and/or permeability/porosities), in affected locations of the column settler  120 , without limitation. The one or more baffles  724 ,  824 ,  924  may comprise elongated conduits, cannulated structures, and/or channels for solution to flow through. In some embodiments, as shown, they may comprise grate-like structures, without limitation. According to some non-limiting embodiments, spacings, patterns, and/or arrangements of the elongated conduits, cannulated structures, and/or channels may change depending upon a position of a respective baffle within a column settler  120 , without limitation. According to some non-limiting embodiments, spacings between, respective patterns, and/or respective sizes and/or arrangements of one or more baffles  724 ,  824 ,  924  may change depending upon a position of a respective baffle within a column settler  120 , without limitation. Three-dimensional patterns of baffles  724 ,  824 ,  924  may change, without limitation. In some embodiments, baffles  724 ,  824 ,  924  may resemble picket fences, crating, reticulated structures, porous structures, wire mesh, weaved/basketed material, or other type coalescing media known in the art. Groupings of similar or different baffles may be placed adjacent to portions of a column settler  120  and/or between other baffles within the column settler (e.g., moving baffles  124  provided to a shaft  122 ), without limitation. In this regard, flows may be regulated to prevent droplets from asymmetrically collecting at portions of the column settler  120 . In some embodiments, some of the baffles  724 ,  824 ,  924  may be stationary, wherein other baffles  724 ,  824 ,  924  may comprise movements within the column. In some embodiments, baffles  724 ,  824 ,  924  may comprise grate-like structures with vertically-oriented/axially-oriented plate structures, without limitation. In some embodiments, baffles  724 ,  824 ,  924  may comprise grate-like structures with angled/non-axially-oriented plate structures, without limitation (not shown). In some embodiments (not shown), baffles  724 ,  824 ,  924  may comprise grate-like structures with various combinations of angled/non-axially-oriented plate structures and vertically-oriented/axially-oriented plate structures, without limitation. 
         [0058]    It should be acknowledged that in some embodiments, portions of, some, and/or all of the baffles disclosed herein may be subjected to one or more vibrations or high frequencies with low amplitudes (e.g., ultrasound, without limitation). Such components may be damped from surrounding column settler components  120 , without limitation. Energies may be introduced into solutions and phases  106 ,  107  thereof contained within a column settler, without limitation. The one or more vibrations or high frequencies may be concentrated in predetermined portions of a column settler  120  according to some embodiments, for example, vibrations or high frequencies may be concentrated at end or outlet portions, in order to encourage fine droplet movement/coalescence and perhaps reduce surface tension, without limitation. In some embodiments, vibrations or high frequencies may be concentrated at central portions, in order to encourage quick phase separations. The one or more vibrations or high frequencies may vary over time, or vary with respect to a distance from an emulsion inlet  125 , without limitation. Moreover, in some embodiments, the one or more vibrations or high frequencies may be pulsed or otherwise intermittently employed, without limitation. In some embodiments, the one or more vibrations or high frequencies may be continuously employed, without limitation. In some embodiments, the one or more vibrations or high frequencies may be attenuated and/or increased as a function of time, without limitation. In some embodiments, the one or more vibrations or high frequencies may preferably be selected so as to avoid natural resonant frequencies of column components. In some embodiments, a first vibration or high frequency may be used in a first portion of the column settler, and a second vibration or high frequency may be used in a second portion of the column settler, without limitation. In yet further embodiments, a third vibration or high frequency may be used in a third portion of the column settler, and a fourth vibration or high frequency may be used in a fourth portion of the column settler, without limitation. 
         [0059]    As shown in  FIG. 24 , an adjustable drive  127  may comprise a spindle input from a drive motor  129 . An output of the adjustable drive  127  may comprise a rotating cam  127   a  which may be operably engaged with a link  127   b , as shown. The link  127   b  may be adjustably connected to the cam  127   a . For example, as shown, a pivot/swivel bearing or ball joint at the end of the link  127   b  may be attached to different portions of the cam  127   a  (e.g., by removing a bolt and placing the bolt into another threaded hole provided to the cam  127   a ). A linear bearing  127   c  may be employed at a top portion of column shaft  122  to allow reciprocating motion of the shaft  122 . As shown, the adjustable drive  127  may comprise a ZX model drive sold by Plymouth, Minnesota-based Zero-Max, Inc., without limitation. 
         [0060]    A contractor or other entity may provide a system having a mass transfer step and/or gravity settling step in part or in whole as shown and described. A contractor or other entity may provide a column settler in part or in whole as shown and described. For instance, the contractor may receive a bid request for a project related to designing a column settler system or process, or the contractor may offer to design such a system or a process for a client. The contractor may then provide, for example, any one or more of the devices or features thereof shown and/or described in the embodiments discussed above. The contractor may provide such devices by selling those devices or by offering to sell those devices. The contractor may provide various embodiments that are sized, shaped, and/or otherwise configured to meet the design criteria of a particular client or customer or work advantageously with a particular gravity settling system or column settler. The contractor may subcontract the fabrication, delivery, sale, or installation of one or more components of a gravity settling system or column settler, or of other devices used to provide such one or more components. The contractor may also survey a site and design or designate one or more storage areas for stacking the material used to manufacture the systems discussed herein. The contractor may also maintain, modify, or upgrade one or more provided or existing columns, mixer settler systems, or column extractor units, and/or components thereof. The contractor may provide such maintenance or modifications by subcontracting such services or by directly providing those services or components needed for said maintenance or modifications. In some cases, the contractor may modify an existing column, mixer settler system, or column extractor unit with a “retrofit kit” to arrive at a modified settling process, modified gravity settling system, or modified column having one or more of the process steps, devices, components, or features discussed herein. 
         [0061]    Although the invention has been described in terms of particular embodiments and applications, one of ordinary skill in the art, in light of this teaching, can generate additional embodiments and modifications without departing from the spirit of or exceeding the scope of the claimed invention. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the drawings and descriptions herein are proffered by way of example to facilitate comprehension of the invention and should not be construed to limit the scope thereof. 
       REFERENCE NUMERAL IDENTIFIERS 
       [0000]    
       
           100  System 
           101  Mass transfer step 
           102  Gravity settling step 
           103  First organic phase 
           104  First aqueous phase 
           105  Mixed unstable emulsion phase 
           106  Second stabilized organic phase 
           107  Second stabilized aqueous phase 
           110  Mixer 
           111  Organic inlet 
           112  Mixing shaft 
           113  Aqueous inlet 
           114  Impeller 
           115  Emulsion outlet 
           116  Mixer tank 
           120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520  Column Settler 
           121 ,  221 ,  321 ,  421 ,  521  Organic outlet 
           122 ,  132 ,  142 ,  152 ,  162 ,  422 ,  522  Gentle agitation shaft 
           222 ′,  322 ′ Inner gentle agitation shaft 
           222 ″,  322 ″ Outer gentle agitation shaft 
           123 ,  223 ,  323 ,  423 ,  523  Aqueous outlet 
           124 ,  134 ,  144 ,  154 ,  164 ,  224 ,  324 ,  424 ,  524 , Baffle 
           624 ,  724 ,  824 .  924   
           124   a ,  134   a ,  144   a ,  154   a ,  164   a ,  624   a  Solid portion 
           124   b ,  134   b ,  144   b ,  154   b ,  164   b ,  624   b  Open portion 
           125 ,  225 ,  325 ,  425 ,  525 ,  725  Emulsion inlet (e.g., volute entry) 
           126 ,  226 ,  326 ,  426 ,  526  Column tank 
           127 ,  227 ,  327 ,  427 ,  527  Transmission/gearbox 
           127   a  Cam 
           127   b  Link (e.g., with pivoting ends) 
           127   c  Bearing/bushing 
           128  Flanges 
           129 ,  229 ,  329 ,  429 ,  529  Motor 
           154   c ,  624   c  Second different open portion 
           157 ,  167 ,  667  Hub 
           159 ,  169  Baffle mount 
           470  Cylinder 
           471  Piston rod 
           701  First de-aeration/pre coalescence step 
           710  Pre-conditioner 
           704  De-aerated mixed unstable emulsion phase 
           705  Semi-coalesced emulsion phase 
           710  De-aeration device 
           801  Second de-aeration/pre coalescence step 
           810  Spiral downcomber/centrifugal coalescer