Measurement And Estimation Of Theliquiddistribution Efficiencyin A Packed Tower

This study aimed to propose a method for measurement and estimation of the liquid distribution efficiency of a pilot-scale packed tower, filled with 1″ Pall rings (plastic and ceramic). The study was carried out analyzing three major conditions: water feed flow (1, 2 and 3 m³/h), feeding position (center, 7.5 and 15 cm from the center) and packed height (30, 60 and 90 cm). The liquid distribution was assessed as water columns in tubes coupled to the bottom of the column. Non-uniform distributions were obtained from the experiments, and therefore the distribution efficiencies were estimated using a 5 parameter model which correlates the efficiency to the tubes water columns. Two efficiency factors were defined (global and dispersion efficiencies). The efficiency of two spray-nozzle distributors were also analyzed with 1″ Pall ceramic rings. A sensible improvement in water distribution was obtained, i e, an increase in the efficiency factors was verified.