A new approach for sizing finger-type (multiple-pipe) slug catchers

H. R. Kalat Jari, P. Khomarloo and K. Assa, Sazeh Consultants, Tehran, Iran A slug catcher, which is a part of the gas pipeline system, is essential equipment at the receiving terminal of a multiphase-flow processing plant. In the past, sizing of multiple-pipe slug catchers was based primarily on experience and rules of thumb. Not surprisingly, most of the existing slug catchers are oversized. Multiple-pipe slug catchers are the obvious choice for long, large-diameter pipes, especially those that undergo pigging. They are cost effective and simple to construct and operate. This article presents a new, innovative approach for the prediction of the required dimensions of slug catcher fingers