Abstract: An improved method of centrifugally separating two differing density phases of a multiphase fluid and simultaneously partitioning the phases with a thixotropic material. The thixotropic material is asymmetrically positioned within a closed end of a tubular container such that the exposed or upper surface of the thixotropic material is contoured to form a space for receiving the multiphase fluid between the surface and a sidewall portion of the closed end of the tube.

Abstract: In combination with an apparatus for centrifugally separating and partitioning differing-density phases of a multiphase fluid including a container and gel-like means initially positioned within an end portion of the container for forming a partition between the differing-density phases, the improvement comprising flow control means initially partially submerged in the gel-like means for directing the flow of the gel-like means along portions of the sidewall of the container, the flow control means having a recessed region formed in sidewall portions thereof to provide an annular space adjacent the upper surface of the gel-like means between proximal portions of the flow control element and the container. The flow control means is submerged to the extent that the upper surface of the gel-like means is positioned within the recessed region forming the annular space.