Why Do Process Industries Use Vane Type Demisters?
In this simple and easy-to-read guide, we’ll explain what vane demisters are, how they work, and why industries prefer them over other mist separation systems like demister pads or mesh-type mist eliminators
In many industrial plants, controlling liquid droplets inside gas streams is essential for smooth and safe operation. One of the most effective tools for this job is the vane type demister. Whether it’s a refinery, chemical plant, gas processing unit, or power plant, vane demisters help remove unwanted mist before it reaches downstream equipment.
What Is a Vane Type Demister?
A vane type demister is a device installed inside process vessels and columns to remove liquid droplets from gas streams. It uses curved metal or plastic vanes to change the direction of gas flow. When gas moves through these curved plates, the liquid droplets cannot follow the sharp turns and get separated.
Industries use vane demisters because they handle high gas flow rates and large liquid loads easily, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications.
How Does a Vane Demister Work?
The working principle of a vane demister is simple:
- Gas carrying liquid droplets enters the demister section.
- The gas is forced to move through curved vane blades.
- The gas follows the bends, but the heavier liquid droplets cannot.
- These droplets hit the vane surface and drain downward as clean liquid.
- The gas leaving the demister is almost free from mist.
Because no fine mesh is used, vane demisters have very low pressure drop and do not clog easily.
Vane Type Demister vs Demister Pad vs Mist Eliminator
Industries often compare these three mist removal solutions:
Vane Type Demister
- Best for high flow rates
- Works well with large droplets
- Low maintenance
- Very low pressure drop
Demister Pad (Mesh Pad)
- Better for very fine droplets
- Commonly used in general applications
- Higher pressure drop than vane types
Mist Eliminator
- Can include both vane and mesh types
- Designed to remove a wide range of droplet sizes
Vane demisters are preferred when large mist droplets and high gas velocities are involved—such as in steam drums, separators, and refinery towers.
Why Process Industries Prefer Vane Type Demisters
Here are the main advantages:
1. Handles High Gas Velocities
Vane demisters work efficiently even when gas flow rates are very high. This makes them perfect for large industrial vessels.
2. Very Low Pressure Drop
Because the gas flow is not restricted with fine mesh, the pressure drop remains low. This reduces energy consumption and improves equipment life.
3. Minimal Maintenance
Unlike mesh demister pads, vane demisters do not clog. They remain effective for long periods with minimal cleaning.
4. Removes Large Droplets Efficiently
Vane designs can remove droplets larger than 8–10 microns with excellent efficiency.
5. Suitable for Dirty or Contaminated Streams
Where mesh pads fail due to fouling, vane demisters continue to perform reliably.
Where Are Vane Demisters Used?
Vane type demisters are used in many industrial processes, including:
- Steam drums
- Oil and gas separators
- Refinery fractionation towers
- Chemical absorbers and scrubbers
- Power plant boilers
- Evaporators and knockout drums
Any process involving vapor and liquid interaction can benefit from installing a vane demister.
Vane Type Demister Materials
These demisters can be made from:
- Stainless steel
- Carbon steel
- PVC
- PP
- FRP
- Alloy materials
The choice depends on temperature, corrosion level, and the type of gas stream passing through the system.
The vane type demister is a powerful tool for improving gas-liquid separation in industrial plants. Its ability to handle tough operating conditions, high flow rates, and dirty gas streams makes it a reliable choice across refineries, chemical plants, and power stations.
With the right design and proper installation, vane demisters help industries operate safely, efficiently, and with fewer maintenance challenges.
FAQ'S
A vane type demister removes liquid droplets from gas streams by forcing the gas to move through curved vanes. The sudden change of direction separates liquids from the gas, ensuring cleaner and safer operation in process vessels.
A vane demister is better for high gas flow rates, larger mist droplets, and dirty streams because it resists clogging. Demister pads work better for extremely fine droplets but require more maintenance.
A mist eliminator is a general term that covers devices like vane demisters and mesh pads. A demister is usually a mesh-type design, whereas vane units use curved blades to separate larger droplets.
Industries install them to improve gas quality, prevent corrosion, reduce carryover, and enhance equipment life. They work efficiently under high load conditions while maintaining low pressure drop.
Need Help?
We're Here for You!
Got a question or need assistance? Our team is ready to help you every step of the way. Reach out to us, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
