Fluid Distribution in Packed Beds. Part 2. Experimental and Phenomenological Assessment of Distributor and Packing Interactions

This paper deals with the experimental campaigns and the sensitivity analysis of a packed column system with respect to the main geometrical and operational parameters. The aims of the paper are (i) to provide the general guidelines to design and operate a reasonably flexible pilot-scale plant for experimentations, (ii) to assess the relevant parameters that effect the effective operability and efficiency of packed unit operations, and (iii) to investigate the interactions between the liquid distributor and the structured packing. Since the maximum efficiency of the packed units is obtained near the loading conditions, certain nonconventional situations such as the entrainment phenomenon and the loading and flooding conditions are examined. Also, the interactions between entrainment, loading, and flooding are emphasized by means of dedicated experimental campaigns.