Abstract: A sand separation systems and method for operating a sand separation system, of which the method includes separating sand from a fluid using a plurality of separators. A plurality of manifold valves are each coupled to a respective one of the separators. The method includes selecting one of the separators to blowdown, signaling to one of the manifold valves coupled to the selected separator for the manifold valve to open, opening the manifold valve, signaling a blowdown unit to execute a blowdown, opening a valve of the blowdown unit in response to the signaling, receiving sand from the selected separator into a sand disposal unit through the open manifold valve and the blowdown unit, and measuring the sand using a sensor of the separator, a load cell of the sand disposal unit, or both.