The role of Distribution Devices in a separator, in most cases, baffles, is primarily to efficiently and evenly distribute the fluid across the vessel area and obtain a homogeneous distribution across the relevant cross section of the vessel, this is in order to maximise the phase separation in the gravity-settling zone.

Baffles are also used to calm the gas / liquid interface during slugging and dampen any motion effects within separators when located on Floating Production Units (FPUs).

Zeta-pdm Ltd realise the importance of appropriately selected and designed baffle arrangements and their effect on separation performance and thus provide a wide range of baffling designs and arrangements, which coupled with the correct design and choice of inlet device and other separation internals, can offer the Client a reduction in Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) as well as increasing the performance of the separator.

We summarise the general attributes of commonly supplied baffle arrangements below.

Type of Distribution Device	Attributes of the Distribution Devices
Single Perforated Baffle	Av.	Poor	V. Good	V. Good	V. Good (note 1)	Good
Double Perforated Baffle	Av.	Poor	V. Good	N/A	V. Good	Good
ZHB Distribution Baffle (note 2)	V. Good	V. Good	V. Good	V. Good	V. Good	Good
ZVB Calming Baffle	V. Good	V. Good	V. Good	V. Good	V. Good	Good
ZSB Straightening Baffle (note 2)	V. Good	V. Good	Low	N/A	N/A	V. Good
ZVE Baffles (note 2)	Good	Good	Good	N/A	N/A	V. Good
ZVE Ultra2 Skimming Zone	Good	Good	Good	N/A	N/A	V. Good

Note 1: When used as calming baffle only.
Note 2: When used in combination in a degassing vessel / enhanced oil recovery, these baffles have excellent performance and increase separation substantially.