How Demisters and Mist Eliminators Work in Columns

In chemical processing and distillation systems, ensuring product purity and equipment protection is critical. One essential component that contributes to both is the mist eliminator—a device used to remove liquid droplets from vapour streams. Understanding how demisters and mist eliminators work in columns helps improve separation efficiency, reduce product loss, and prevent downstream issues.

In this article, we’ll break down the types of mist eliminators, how they function, and compare demister pads vs mist eliminators to help you choose the right solution for your column.

What is a Mist Eliminator?

A mist eliminator, also called a demister, is a mechanical separation device installed inside process columns to remove entrained liquid droplets from gas or vapour streams. These droplets can cause problems such as contamination, corrosion, and loss of valuable product. Mist eliminators are widely used in applications like distillation, absorption, and scrubbing systems.

How Mist Eliminators Work in Columns

Mist eliminators are typically placed at the top section of a column, where vapour exits. As the vapour passes through the industrial mist eliminator, small droplets are captured and coalesced into larger ones. These larger droplets then fall back into the column due to gravity, separating them from the vapour stream.

Common Mist Eliminator Types

There are several mist eliminator types used across industries, each suitable for different process conditions:

1. Wire Mesh Demister Pads

Made of interlocked metal or plastic wire mesh. These pads offer high surface area and are best for low-velocity applications.

2. Vane Mist Eliminators

Vane mist eliminators use a series of angled blades to change the direction of vapour flow. Droplets are impacted on the vanes, coalesce, and drain off. Ideal for high-velocity gas streams and applications requiring low pressure drop.

3. Fiber Bed Mist Eliminators

These are used in systems requiring high-efficiency droplet removal, such as aerosol mists or submicron particles.

Demister Pad vs Mist Eliminator: What’s the Difference?

While often used interchangeably, there’s a subtle distinction:

Demister Pad typically refers to wire mesh pads designed for low to moderate vapour flow.
Mist Eliminator is a broader term that includes vane-type, fibre-bed, and mesh demisters.

So, while a demister pad is a type of mist eliminator, not all mist eliminators are demister pads.

Benefits of Using Mist Eliminators in Process Columns

✅ Enhanced product purity

✅ Reduced maintenance costs

✅ Minimised equipment corrosion

✅ Improved operational efficiency

✅ Compliance with environmental regulations

Top Mist Eliminator Manufacturers

Choosing the right supplier is key. Leading mist eliminator manufacturers include:

Koch-Glitsch – Known for vane and mesh-type eliminators.
Sulzer Chemtech – Offers a wide range of high-efficiency mist eliminators.
Kuber Internals Pvt. Ltd. – A growing name in industrial mist eliminator manufacturing, offering customised designs for distillation and separation columns.

Conclusion

Mist eliminators and demisters are essential for the smooth operation of process columns. From understanding mist eliminator types to choosing between a demister pad vs a mist eliminator, proper selection ensures minimal downtime and maximum output. If you’re looking to source from top mist eliminator manufacturers, be sure to choose a provider that understands your process needs and can deliver reliable, cost-effective solutions.

FAQ'S

What is the main purpose of a mist eliminator in a distillation column?

A mist eliminator removes entrained liquid droplets from vapour streams inside a distillation column. This prevents product contamination, reduces equipment corrosion, and improves separation efficiency.

What are the different types of mist eliminators?

Common mist eliminator types include wire mesh demister pads, vane mist eliminators, and fibre bed mist eliminators. Each type is suited for different operating conditions, such as vapour velocity, droplet size, and pressure drop requirements.

How does a vane mist eliminator work?

A vane mist eliminator uses a series of angled blades to redirect vapour flow. As the vapour changes direction, liquid droplets impact the blades, coalesce, and then drain away. This type is ideal for high-velocity applications.

What is the difference between a demister pad and a mist eliminator?

A demister pad is a specific type of mist eliminator made from wire mesh, mainly used in low to medium vapour velocities. A mist eliminator is a broader category that includes demister pads, vane eliminators, and fibre beds.

Who are the top mist eliminator manufacturers?

Top mist eliminator manufacturers include Koch-Glitsch, Sulzer Chemtech, and Kuber Internals. These companies offer a wide range of solutions for industrial mist elimination tailored to various process requirements.

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