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®
Packed Tower Internals Guide
Koch-Glitsch’s dedication to provide For information regarding Koch-Glitsch random developed and acquired proven internals
state-of-the-art mass transfer equip- and structured packings, please ask for and technology for packed columns from
ment is demonstrated in a complete brochures KGRP-1, KGIMTP-1 and KGSP-1. Glitsch and Saint-Gobain NorPro. As a
line of packed tower internals, devel- result of these acquisitions, Koch-Glitsch
oped through extensive testing and Hydraulic flow testing is used to confirm has identified and now offers the best
years of experience with mass transfer the performance of INTALOX liquid dis- products and technology from each com-
equipment, such as INTALOX® High tributors. Computational Fluid Dynamics pany. Because of these changes, product
Performance Distribution Systems. By (CFD) analysis is available for verification model designations have also changed.
understanding the important role of liq- of vapor distribution designs. Ask your The column internals models listed in this
uid and vapor distribution, Koch-Glitsch Koch-Glitsch representative about these brochure represent the majority of rec-
can confidently design packed columns optional services. ommended column internals for use
to provide predictable performance. today.
Koch-Glitsch recognizes that not all
INTALOX® Packed Tower Systems com- packed towers require state-of-the-art Of course, exact replacements of any
bine INTALOX high performance liquid liquid distribution uniformity. Koch- column internal formerly sold by Koch,
and vapor distribution with high perform- Glitsch offers a wide range of traditional Glitsch or Norton (NorPro) are available
ance packings such as: style internals, used over many years in upon request and can be supplied, designed
less demanding services. This brochure and built to their original specifications.
- FLEXIPAC®, FLEXIPAC® HC®, describes the importance of liquid and
INTALOX® or Wire Gauze Structured vapor distribution and the circumstances Versions of many of the internals described
Packings in which INTALOX Packed Tower in this catalog are also available in a variety
- IMTP® or SNOWFLAKE® High Systems should be applied. of FRP and thermoplastic materials. For infor-
Performance Random Packing mation regarding these products, please ask
- CASCADE MINI RINGS® or Over the years, Koch Engineering for brochure KGPTIG-1.
β-ETA RING® Random Packings Company, Inc., now Koch-Glitsch, has
Table of Contents
Device Type and Description Old NorPro Old Koch Old Glitsch Page
Model Model Model Model
Liquid Distributors
INTALOX® High Performance Liquid Distributors
106 Pan distributor 106 7
116 Deck distributor 116 8
126 Channel distributor with bottom orifices 126 320 8
136 Channel distributor with drip tubes 136 321 9
141 Tubular distributor 330 POH-921 10
156 Trough distributor with enhanced baffle plates 312 NTD-721 10
186 Trough distributor with drip tubes 186 311 TNT-727 11
®
INTALOX High Performance Liquid Redistributors
107 Pan redistributor 107 7
117 Deck redistributor with bottom orifices 117 8
127 Channel redistributor with bottom orifices 127 8
137 Channel redistributor with drip tubes 137 9
Traditional Performance Liquid Distributors
905 Pan distributor with V-notch risers 798 306 NRD-651 12
906 Pan distributor with bottom orifices 845 DRO-601 12
916 Deck distributor with bottom orifices 816, 916 301 A,B,D RTD-551- 554 13
926 Channel distributor with bottom orifices 1016 13
976 Trough distributor with bottom orifices 14
985 Trough distributor with weirs 806 310, 302 VND-701,711 14
986 Trough distributor drip tubes TNT-727 15
996 Trough distributor with drip point multipliers TNS 34
Traditional Performance Liquid Redistributors
917 Deck redistributor with bottom orifice 817, 917 301 A,B,D RTD-552-554 13
927 Channel redistributor with bottom orifice 1017 301 A,B,D RTD-552-554 13
Enclosed Channel and Pressure Fed Liquid Distributors
941 Pipe-arm distributor with orifices 844 342, 304 POH-901 16
943 Spray nozzle distributor 1044 344, 305 SNH-951-X 16
961 Enclosed channel distributor for offshore applications 874 17
1
Device Type and Description Old NorPro Old Koch Old Glitsch Page
Model Model Model Model
Feed Devices
Liquid Feed Devices 18
119 INTALOX® High Performance Liquid Only Feed Pipe 119, 129 340 19
719 Liquid only feed pipe 719, 729 19
Mixed Liquid/Vapor and Flash Feed Devices
705 Flashing feed chamber 855 20
745 Flashing feed pipe 655 300 RFD-561 20
755 Flashing or mixed phase feed gallery 755 341 RFD-571 21
758 Enhanced vapor horn 192 360, 361 VDA-992 22
765 Suppressed flashing feed distributor 144 34
788 Enhanced V-baffle vapor inlet diffuser 350 VDV-994 21
798 Vapor inlet for FCC Main Fractionators 34
Vapor Feed and Distribution Devices
716 Deck type vapor distributor 896 CTD-531 23
746 Lateral arm vapor distributor 198 342 VDP-991 23
748 Vapor diffuser 196 24
768 EVENFLOW™ Vane Type Vapor Distributor 194 351 24
Liquid Collectors
611 Deck style liquid collector 833 501 CTD-501 25
613 Deck style liquid collector for offshore application 34
621 Trough style liquid collector 733 500 CTD-521 25
622 Trough style liquid collector for fouling services 34
633 Chevron vane liquid collector 633 510, 511 26
Packing Bed Limiters 27
803 Structured packing bed limiter, non-interfering 133 403 HDG-421 27
805 Random packing bed limiter, non-interfering 103 401 BLM-461 28
815 Anti-migration screen between different packing sizes 111 34
825 Random packing bed limiter 823 BLM-451 28
845 Bed limiter used in combination with spray distributors 822 34
883 Structured packing bed limiter/liquid distributor support 29
2
Liquid Distribution
Liquid Distribution As a general rule: Redistribution
Liquid distributors are used in packed • Koch-Glitsch INTALOX high perform- The decision of when to install more
columns above each bed of packing. ance distributors are used typically than one packed bed and redistribute the
The distributor, depending upon its with FLEXIPAC, FLEXIPAC HC, liquid is somewhat more involved.There
design features, is elevated between INTALOX and wire gauze structured are six major reasons to split a packed
0 to 8 in. [0-200mm] above the packing. packings or IMTP, SNOWFLAKE, bed and redistribute the liquid:
The space is determined by the distribu- CMR and β-ETA RING high perform-
tor type and the vertical height required ance random packings in the following • Feed introduction
to disengage the vapor phase from the services: distillation, processes • Product side draw
packing before it flows through the dis- approaching equilibrium or heat-trans- • High theoretical stage count
tributor gas passage area. fer applications with close approach • Desire to cross-mix the liquid
temperature. • Liquid maldistribution
An ideal distributor possesses the fol- • Physical weight of the packed bed
lowing attributes, each having a specific • Koch-Glitsch “traditional” distributors
effect on the overall performance of the are generally used with traditional Introduction of a liquid or vapor feed to
packed tower: packings (FLEXIRING® and HY-PAK® a column requires a space in the packing
Random Packings, plastic Super and redistribution of the liquid phase.
• Uniform liquid distribution INTALOX® Saddles, FLEXIGRID® Important factors to keep in mind with
• Proper operation through its and GLITSCH GRID® Structured the introduction of a liquid feed are the
turn-down range Packings) in general absorption, strip- temperature and composition of the feed
• Low vapor phase pressure drop ping and heat transfer applications. stream compared to the internal column
• Resistance to plugging or fouling Traditional distributors take advantage liquid. Normally, unless the feed rate is
• Optimal use of vessel height for of standardized, pre-engineered design small compared to the flow rate of the
and the optimal use of raw materials. internal column liquid, it is desirable to
proper performance
These distributors do not generally mix the feed with the internal liquid to
• Minimal liquid residence time provide liquid flow uniformity compa- provide compositional uniformity before
• Mixing capability for redistribution rable to INTALOX high performance distributing it to the packed bed below.
to the next bed distributors. It is also advisable to mix the feed
stream and internal liquid when their
The introduction of high performance As always, there are exceptions to the temperatures are significantly different.
tower packings in the 1970’s and 1980’s general rules. Occasionally… The degree of the thoroughness of the
accentuated the design deficiencies of mixing depends upon the magnitude of
distributors available at the time. In • High performance packing may be the differences and to what extent the
response, Koch-Glitsch introduced dis- used with traditional distributors in gradients are expected to affect the
tributors with features to correct these cases when only certain aspects of overall performance.
deficiencies. These important features a high performance packing are
are well understood by Koch-Glitsch and desired. An example would be to Liquid cross-mixing and maldistribution
have been incorporated in the family of take advantage of the high capacity correction often go hand-in-hand. When
INTALOX high performance distributors. of IMTP packing or the low pressure a packed column is designed with a large
drop of FLEXIPAC HC structured number of theoretical stages or transfer
Koch-Glitsch offers two categories of packing, when the separation efficiency units, a constant liquid to vapor ratio
liquid distributors to meet the require- demands are not high. (L/V) is needed to achieve the best over-
ments of specific applications. In deter- all column performance. Redistribution
mining which category to choose, it is • Traditional packing may be used with of the liquid ensures that the L/V ratio is
necessary to know the sensitivity of the high performance distributors in cases maintained, while cross-mixing between
process and whether the liquid distribu- when a process is licensed and speci- beds ensures uniform composition.
tion will significantly affect the overall fied with a certain type of packing.
tower performance. Based on Koch-Glitsch’s operating expe-
rience, a rule-of-thumb is to limit a single
packed bed to no more than 20 theoreti-
cal stages or transfer units. Consult a
Koch-Glitsch technical representative for
further details. Note that in some spe-
cial circumstances, Koch-Glitsch applies
more restrictive rules than those dis-
cussed above.
3
Liquid Distribution Quality
Perfect liquid distribution is defined as The chart below demonstrates the overall properly meters liquid flow to the distrib-
providing equal liquid per unit area of the effect that can be expected with various utor without inducing excessive horizontal
packed bed surface. Theoretically this levels of distribution quality. The maxi- velocities, gradients in liquid head or
would require an infinite number of liquid mum maldistribution that can be tolerated turbulence. Pre-distribution is achieved
streams, all at identical flow. This is clearly in a packed bed is strongly dependent on by the use of feed pipes, pre-distribution
impossible. A number of factors such as the product composition, the relative channels and/or parting boxes. The design
orifice size, fouling potential and mechani- volatility, the liquid to vapor ratio, etc. of the pre-distribution system becomes
cal construction limit the ability to make Koch-Glitsch considers all these aspects increasingly complex as the specific
the "perfect" distributor. INTALOX high as well as others while designing packed liquid rate and/or the column diameter
performance distributors approach perfec- columns. increases.
tion by applying the following criteria:
Liquid Rate and Cross Flow
• Drip points located in a uniform Capability
pattern
• Drip point positions uninterrupted by As the liquid rate on a distributor is
vapor chimneys or mechanical supports increased, the cross flow capability of the
• Drip points properly spaced with distributor and its pre-distribution system
respect to the vessel wall become more critical. Since gravity fed
• Minimal variation in flow between drip distributors are dependent on liquid level
points to determine flow, the liquid must be
carefully balanced in order to provide
Koch-Glitsch "traditional" distributors point-to-point flow uniformity. It is
have less uniform distribution patterns important that the pre-distribution system
and liquid flow than the INTALOX high
performance distributors. This is due to
significant standardization and pre-engi-
The effect of liquid distribution quality on tower
neering of the traditional internals to opti-
mize their construction and to fit them The Effect ofis Liquid
performance shown byDistribution Quality
these actual results:
for a wide range of conditions. This opti-
mized, standardized design makes tradi- 20
tional distributors an economical alterna- 20
tive. Traditional distributors have been 18
used successfully for many years in a wide Stages Per Bed With
Stages per BedBase
System with HETP
range of applications.
20
bedof Packing
10
different from other areas.
Stages
Actual Actual
4
Drip Point Density
The drip point density has an influence on the
efficiency of the uppermost part of a packed
bed. With the most commonly used sizes of
random and structured packings, the effect of
Effect of Drip Point Density on HETP
the drip point density is relatively minor. In Drip Points/m2
actual laboratory testing, three packings tested
under identical conditions, with the exception 0 50 100 150 200
of drip point density, indicated the effect 30
shown on the right.
700
The change from 5.5 to 14.5 points/ft2 [60 to ®
#50 IMTP Packing
155 pts/m2] has a relatively minor effect on 25
the Height Equivalent to a Theoretical Plate 600
(HETP). High drip point densities can greatly
affect the cost of a high performance distribu-
HETP, inches
20
HETP, mm
tor and can also limit the vapor capacity for 500
#25 IMTP® Packing
some distributor types. In addition, distribu-
tors with high drip point densities can be
prone to fouling due to small orifice 400
diameters (See page 6). 15
However, drip point density does have a con- INTALOX® Structured Packing 1T 300
siderable affect on the performance of high 10
surface area, very high efficiency packings. The
table below details the guidelines for drip point 200
count based on the high performance packing
to be used. 5
100
0 0
0 5 10 15 20
Drip Points/ft2
FLEXIPAC® and FLEXIPAC® HC® 250Y and larger 1.6Y & 1.4Y/350Y 1Y and smaller
Structured Packing
5
Distributor Orifice Sizing
Fouling Optional strainers and filter boxes can be Koch-Glitsch "traditional" distributors
provided to protect orifices from small allow greater flow variations than
For a distributor to perform correctly, it quantities of particulate matter such as INTALOX high performance distributors
is important that the metering devices do vessel wall or pipe scale. These devices and typically have a broader range of
not become fouled. There are several are not effective if the fouling material operation. For high turndown require-
mechanisms and sources of fouling mate- coats, pastes or sticks to metal surfaces. ments, multi-level orifices or slotted
rials: polymerization, coking, scale, con- Distributors with weirs for liquid meter- weirs may be used with some INTALOX
struction debris, sediment, rust flakes, etc. ing will not meet the criteria for flow distributor designs as well as traditional
All precautions should be taken to elimi- variation for an INTALOX high perform- distributor styles. It should be noted,
nate fouling materials outside of the col- ance distributor. however, that when using these metering
umn since external strainers and filters devices, the flow variation will be higher
are far easier to clean than distributors. Operating Range throughout all or part of the operating
In some cases it is not possible to elimi- range than with a single orifice. While
nate all external fouling sources. In other A distributor will give its best perform- the liquid level is in the area of transition
cases the source of the fouling material ance at and around 100% of the design between multi-level orifices, there will be
can be within the column itself. Therefore, liquid flow rate. As the rate decreases a zone of high flow variation that will sig-
the choice of the distributor should be and the liquid head drops, levelness of the nificantly exceed the limits allowable for
dependent on the nature of any fouling. distributor as well as gradients in liquid an INTALOX high performance distribu-
level become a larger percentage of the tor.
The list below ranks the fouling resist- operating liquid head. At some turndown
ance of various metering devices and rate, the flow variation from point-to- Orifice Size
arrangements for liquid distributors, point will fall outside of acceptable limits.
starting at the top with the most In gravity-fed distributors, the orifice size
resistant: INTALOX distributors are designed to is dependent upon the drip point density,
have a maximum flow variation, defined as the specific liquid rate and the height of
• V–notch weir the coefficient of variation (Cv), equal to the liquid. For a single level orifice, with
• Spray distributor no more than 3% at design rates and no an operating range of 60 to 120% of the
• Slotted weir more than 5% at turndown rates. Special design flow, the approximate orifice size
• Sidewall orifice designs are available for many INTALOX is indicated in the graph below.
• Bottom orifice high performance distributors that will
result in even lower flow variation.
Typical turndown ranges are given in the
description for the various distributor
models.
po ints/
2 [60
s/ft
Orifice Diameter, (inches)
n t
1.00 i m]
2
po ints/
25
5.5 5 po
ft [8
Orifice Diameter, (mm)
o ints/
p s/m ]
2
8 i nt
2 [130
p o 20
0.75
p o ints/ft
12
15
0.50
10
0.25
5
0.00 0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Normal Flow Rate (gpm/ft )
2
6
Liquid Distributors
Depending on the flow rates, column con- Locating the distributor on existing sup- Trough Type Distributors
figuration and general mechanical prefer- port ring in revamp work often makes it
ences, there are several ways to achieve easy to determine the tower layout. Trough type distributors are usually hung
good liquid distribution. Supporting a channel type distributor on from beams. When used in conjunction
an annular ring generally requires a more with structured packings, in special cir-
complex design and construction in order cumstances, the trough distributor may be
Deck Type Distributors supported from an integral support sys-
to provide drip points at the proper
Deck style distributors are clamped on an proximity to the tower wall. This tem resting directly on the packing.
annular ring that is seal welded to the increased complexity can be avoided by Trough type distributors are easily
tower wall. For revamp applications of supporting channel type distributor with installed and leveled, do not require gas-
trayed columns, most often an existing the center channel resting on a seat and kets and have no annular ring below to
tray ring is utilized and seal welded seg- the channel troughs hung from beams or interfere with the distribution pattern.
ments are added as needed. In the case a ring above. Both beam and ring sup- Each trough is fed a metered amount of
where welding is not permitted, bolt-in ported channel distributors can be liquid from one or more parting boxes.
segments are available by special request designed to accommodate uplift condi- Because there is no flow communication
but provide a less reliable liquid seal. tions.The center channel of a channel between troughs, the performance of the
Leakage from and around bolt-in support type distributor provides cross flow parting box is critical. Koch-Glitsch’s
ring segments can be a significant portion capacity between troughs, to enable liquid years of experience ensure parting box
of the total liquid flow, resulting in poor head equalization. designs for proper flow metering.
distribution quality. In this case, a trough
or channel type distributor should be The addition of covers or hats over the When used between packed beds for re-
considered. gas riser area provides the ability to turn distribution, a trough type distributor
the device into a redistributor for use requires the use of a collector to catch
Channel Type Distributors between packed beds. This design is the liquid from the bed above. The use of
especially useful when tower elevation is a separate collector provides complete
The center channel is designed as a struc- tight and minimal height for redistribution cross mixing of the liquid before redistri-
tural member allowing the distributors to is required. bution and also allows mixing of feed
rest on a support ring and span columns streams with the internal column liquid.
up to 20 ft [6 m] without the need for A separate collector requires more
additional beams. column height than a channel type
redistributor.
7
Model 116 INTALOX® Deck Distributor (Model 117 Redistributor)
Design Options
Diameters 36 - 240 in. [150 - 6000 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Liquid rates between 4 - 80 gpm/ft2
[10 - 200 m3/m2 h] The Model 116/117 distributor is • Orifice strainers
Orifices in deck clamped onto an annular ring that is • Anti-migration bars in gas risers
seal-welded to the tower wall, with • Raised tube metering for high
Orifices in the deck are arranged to provide opti- clamps provided. Hence, distributor turndown or fouling concern
mum distribution quality. The deck-type construc- levelness is determined by the ring • Construction for mounting
tion provides good liquid cross-flow between gas ris- levelness. Design of the Model between flanges
ers that are positioned between drip points. 116/117 distributor takes into
account support ring levelness
Because this deck style distributor is normally tolerances within ASME code or
designed to be used to handle higher liquid flow as otherwise specified. All joints are
rates, the orifices are usually large and do not gasketed.
tend to foul. For liquid rates below 8 gpm/ft2
[20 m3/m2 h], use of a channel or trough style For redistribution between beds, a
distributor is generally recommended. separate liquid collector is not
required. The standard design for
The standard turndown range is 2 : 1. a Model 117 redistributor
includes gas riser covers to
collect liquid.
Model 126 INTALOX® Channel Distributor with Bottom Orifices ( Model 127 Redistributor)
Diameters greater than 36 in. [900 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Liquid rates between 2 - 16 gpm/ft2
[5 - 40 m3/m2 h] The Model 126/127 distributor rests • Model 127 cross-mixing capability
Orifices in channel base on an annular ring or is suspended (extent is dependent on diameter
Limited fouling resistance from a ring or beams. All joints are and rate)
Structural center channel provides flow gasketed. • Orifice strainers
equalization • Leveling screws
The standard design for a Model 127 • Expandable and gasketed wall
Orifices in the base of the channels are positioned redistributor includes a weld-on wall wiper (small diameter Model 127)
to optimize distribution quality. Vapor passage is wiper and bolted gas riser covers,
provided by the space between the channels. Rates used to collect and redistribute
lower than 2 gpm/ft2 [5 m3/m2 h] can be accommo- liquid. The redistributor design uses
dated but a Model 136 sidewall orifice distributor less column height than a separate
should be considered first. For systems with liquid collector/distributor layout and is
rates in excess of 12 gpm/ft2 [30 m3/m2 h] a Model valuable where space is limited and
116 deck style distributor should be considered. total cross mixing of liquid between
beds is not critical.
The channel-type construction allows easy liquid
sealing and distributor leveling, which is essential in
large diameter towers. Because this distributor
normally handles intermediate liquid flow rates,
the orifices are usually large enough to allow low
to moderate fouling resistance.
8
Model 136 INTALOX® Channel Distributor with Drip Tubes (Model 137 Redistributor)
Diameters greater than 10 in. [250 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Liquid rates between 0.3 - 12 gpm/ft2
[0.75 - 30 m3/m2 h] The Model 136/137 distributor are • Cross-mixing capability (extent is
Structural center channel provides flow usually constructed as pans for diam- dependent on diameter and rate)
equalization eters below 30 in. [750 mm] and as • Orifice strainers
Liquid overflow protection channels for diameters above 30 in. • Leveling screws
Side-wall orifices [750 mm]. • Multi-level orifices
Fouling resistant • Expandable and gasketed wall
The Model 136/137 distributor rests wiper (small diameter Model 137)
Orifices in the sidewalls of the channels are positioned on an annular ring or is suspended • Removable drip tubes
to optimize distribution quality. Vapor passage is pro- from beams or clips. All joints are
vided by the space between the troughs. gasketed.
The fouling resistance of this distributor is higher than The standard design for the Model
that of deck-type distributors because it features a 137 redistributor includes a weld-on
debris collection zone below the sidewall orifices. The wall wiper and bolted gas riser cov-
center channel of the distributor provides structural ers to collect and redistribute liquid.
support as well as equalization of liquid between The redistributor design uses less
troughs. column height than a separate collec-
tor/distributor layout and is valuable
The liquid from each drip point is conducted into the where space is limited and total cross
lower vapor velocity region below the distributor mixing of liquid between beds is not
troughs. This results in low entrainment levels. In critical.
addition, overflow holes are provided at each conduc-
tor tube to ensure that if the maximum flow range of
the distributor is exceeded, the liquid will be con-
ducted to the packing in a controlled manner rather
than to randomly spill over the troughs.
9
Model 141 INTALOX® Tubular Distributor
Diameters 6 - 120 in. [150 - 3000 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Liquid rates between 0.3 - 8 gpm/ft2
[0.75 - 20 m3/m2 h] As the standard, the Model 141 • Turndown ratio greater than 2 : 1
Enclosed tubular laterals distributor is supported and leveled • Non-standard mounting
High distribution point density from an integral distributor support arrangements
Clean service only grid (Model 883). • Diameters exceeding standard
range
The Model 141 distributor is most often used in con- For redistribution between packed
junction with wire gauze packings. Orifices in the beds, a separate liquid collector is
bottom of the tubular laterals are positioned to opti- required. The use of a separate liquid
mize distribution quality with a high drip point density. collector provides total cross mixing
Vapor passage is provided by the space between the of the liquid between beds.
laterals. The Model 141 INTALOX distributor is sug-
gested only for towers in extremely clean service
free of fouling materials and debris.
10
Model 186 INTALOX® Trough Distributor with Drip Tubes
Diameters greater than 30 in. [760 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Liquid rates between 0.3 - 10 gpm/ft2
[0.75 - 25 m3/m2 h] As the standard, the Model 186 dis- • Orifice strainers
Sidewall orifice tributor is suspended from beams. • Multi-level orifices
Liquid overflow protection By special request, and within a limit- • Metering Boxes
Fouling resistant ed range of diameters, provisions can • Mounted on support ring or
Low entrainment be made for the distributor to rest supported by Model 883
on an existing support ring. bed limiter/support
Orifices in the sidewalls of the troughs are posi-
tioned to optimize distribution quality. Vapor Model 186 troughs are continuous
passage is provided by the space between the across the column diameter and are
troughs. Special designs can handle liquid rates fed with one or more parting boxes.
above or below the above stated range. There are no joints to seal, therefore,
no gaskets are required.
The liquid from each drip point is conducted into
the lower vapor velocity region below the distribu- For redistribution between packed
tor troughs. This results in low entrainment levels. beds, a separate liquid collector is
In addition, overflow holes are provided at each required. The use of a separate liquid
conductor tube to ensure that if the maximum collector provides total cross mixing
flow range of the distributor is exceeded, the liquid of the liquid between beds.
will be conducted to the packing in a controlled
manner rather than to randomly spill over the
troughs.
11
Model 905 Pan Distributor with V-Notch Risers
Diameters 12 – 48 in. [300 - 1200 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Liquid rates between 1 - 8 gpm/ft2
[2.5 - 20 m3/m2 h] This distributor is supported either • One-piece construction for body
Weir in riser by a full support ring or by lugs. flanged columns
Gasketed joints are standard for
The Model 905 pan distributor is used for highly multi-piece pans when liquid rates
fouling services in towers with a diameter of less are below 4 gpm/ft2 [10 m3/m2 h].
than 48 in. [1200 mm]. Cylindrical risers with "V"
shaped weirs act as liquid downcomers as well as
vapor risers. A high liquid turndown ratio is possible
due to the weirs. However, the vapor velocity in the
riser limits both liquid and vapor flow rates since
both phases are flowing counter-currently in the
same passages.
12
Model 916 Deck Distributor with Bottom Orifices (Model 917 Redistributor)
Diameters greater than 12 in. [300 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Liquid rates between 1 - 50 gpm/ft2
[2.5 - 120 m3/m2 h] The distributor rests on an annular • Gasketing for liquid rates above
Orifices in deck ring and is secured with tray clamps. 4 gpm/ft2
• Parting box
The deck-type construction gives liquid level balance For redistribution between beds, a
around the periphery of the distributor and addition- separate liquid collector is not need-
ally across the mid-span beam in large diameter ed. The standard design for a Model
columns. Vapor passage is provided through long, 917 redistributor includes gas riser
rectangular gas risers. covers to collect liquid.
At lower liquid rates, as distribution orifice diame- Distributors in services with liquid
ters get smaller, this distributor provides minimal rates below 4 gpm/ft2 [10 m3/m2 h]
fouling resistance. If fouling resistance is important a are gasketed as standard.
trough type distributor with sidewall orifices should
be considered.
Model 926 Channel Distributor with Bottom Orifices (Model 927 Redistributor)
Diameters greater than 36 in. [900 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Liquid rates between 1 - 20 gpm/ft2
[2.5 - 50 m3/m2 h] The Model 926/927 distributor rests • Cross mixing (Model 927)
Orifices in base on an annular ring. Gasketed joints • Clamped to support ring for
Limited fouling resistance are standard for liquid rates below uplift resistances
Structural center channel provides flow 4 gpm/ft2 [10 m3/m2 h]. • Leveling screws
equalization
The Model 927 redistributor includes
The Model 926 distributor is a channel type distribu- gas riser area covers to collect liquid
tor providing good cross flow and liquid handling as well as a wall wiper to be welded
capacity with low leakage compared to a deck style to the column wall.
(Model 916) distributor. The structural center sump
allows this distributor to be used in large diameter
columns, up to 26 ft [8 m], without the need for
additional support beams. The standard turndown
range is 1.8 : 1.
13
Model 976 Trough Distributor with Bottom Orifices
Diameters greater than 36 in. [900 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Liquid rates between 1 - 20 gpm/ft2 As the standard, the Model 976 dis- • Orifice strainers
[2.5 - 50 m3/m2 h] tributor is suspended from beams. • Mount on support ring
Orifices in troughs Within a limited range of diameters,
provisions can be made for the dis-
Orifices are located in the base of the troughs. tributor to rest on an existing sup-
Vapor passage is provided by the space between port ring.
the troughs.
For redistribution between packed
The trough-type construction allows easy liquid beds, a separate liquid collector is
sealing and distributor leveling. Troughs are fed required. The use of a separate liquid
with a parting box. collector provides cross mixing of
liquid between beds.
The standard turndown range is 2 : 1.
There are no joints to seal for this
distributor, therefore, no gaskets are
required.
14
Model 986 Trough Distributor with Drip Tubes
Diameters greater than 30 in. [760 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Liquid rates between 0.3 - 20 gpm/ft2
[0.75 - 50 m3/m2 h] As the standard, the Model 986 dis- • Orifice strainers
Sidewall orifice tributor is suspended from beams. • High turndown ratio
Liquid overflow protection Upon special request, and within a • Metering boxes
Fouling resistant limited range of diameters, provisions • Mount on support ring or
Low entrainment can be made for the distributor to supported by Model 883 bed
rest on an existing support ring. limiter/support
The construction and many features of this distribu-
tor are similar to the high performance Model 186 For redistribution between packed
liquid distributor, except that many aspects of the beds, a separate liquid collector is
construction are standardized, resulting in a distribu- required. The use of a separate liquid
tion pattern and/or point-to-point flow variation that collector provides total cross mixing
falls outside the INTALOX high performance criteria. of the liquid between beds.
15
Model 941 Pipe-Arm Distributor with Orifices
Diameters greater than 18 in. [430 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Liquid rates between 1.5 - 10 gpm/ft2
[4 - 25 m3/m2 h] The header section is flanged for • Threaded header and laterals
standard horizontal feed from the (4" [100 mm] and under)
The Model 941 liquid distributor requires little col- side of the tower. • Vertical-feed header, on tower
umn elevation to accomplish its distribution task, and centerline
it provides high open area for high vapor flow. The Inlet flange mates to a 150 psi [PN 10] • Bayonet-style construction for
Model 941 distributor should be used only with flange. The end of the header oppo- small towers
clean liquids or with a filter designed to remove any site the flange connection as well as
particles that could block the orifices. the lateral ends are supported by
clips as required. Laterals attach to
The standard design of the Model 941 distributor the main header with flanged connec-
handles liquid rates up to 10 gpm/ft2 [25 m3/m2 h], tions as standard.
but special designs can handle higher rates. The nor-
mal turndown ratio for the Model 941 distributor When an external column feed is not
is 2.5 : 1. present and for using this device as a
redistributor, a total draw-off liquid
collector with an external pump loop
is required.
The Model 943 spray nozzle distributor can be For small diameter columns, the
designed for very low liquid rates because each spray ends of the header and laterals
nozzle covers a large area of the tower. It can utilize are supported by clips as required.
relatively large nozzle opening sizes, so each nozzle For larger diameter columns, laterals
provides a reasonable flow, even at low irrigation are attached to beams.
rates.
16
Model 961 Enclosed Channel Distributor for Offshore Applications
Diameters greater than 30 in. [760 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Liquid rates between 1 - 30 gpm/ft2
[2.5 - 75 m3/m2 h] This distributor is hung from beams • Dependent on column
For off-shore columns subject to motion and is securely attached to withstand configuration and requirement.
the rigors of column motion.
The Model 961 is a distributor designed specifically
for off-shore column applications subjected to tilt and When located at the top of the
motion. Orifices are located in the base of the column with a reflux stream, the
enclosed channels. Liquid is fed to each channel using reflux pump pressure is used to
a pre-distribution header. Vapor passage is provided provide liquid head.
by the space between the channels.
For use as a redistributor, a separate
The enclosed channel construction allows the use of Model 613 liquid collector, (specifically
high liquid heads to minimize the flow variation due designed for motion column service),
to the tilt and the effects of motion and acceleration is used in conjunction with the Model
of swaying columns. 961 distributor to provide the neces-
sary liquid head.
Because of the unique nature and design of the
Model 961 distributor, a Koch-Glitsch representative The column height requirement is
should be contacted for these applications. dependent upon turndown range and
motion dynamics.
Testing of Model 961 enclosed channel distributor in the Koch-Glitsch test facility
simulating wave motion.
17
Feed Devices
Obtaining desirable tower performance Vapor-Only Feeds CFD Modeling
requires the proper handling of liquid
and vapor entering the column. The Two factors must be considered in Good vapor distribution is essential to
types of feeds or inlets into a column choosing the proper device for a vapor achieve superior separation efficiency.
can generally be classified into four only feed. Particularly in refinery towers, poor vapor
major categories:
distribution can be a major source of
1. The kinetic energy of the inlet vapor
• Liquid only (contains less than must be considered in relation to the coke formation resulting in frequent unit
1% vapor by volume ) pressure drop in the packed bed, the shutdowns. Koch-Glitsch uses modern
• Mixed liquid and vapor, flashing or feed nozzle arrangement and the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
suppressed flash tower separation requirements. modeling technology to analyze the per-
• Vapor only formance of existing equipment and to
• Reboiler returns 2. If there is a gross mismatch in the develop new improved designs. This
composition and/or temperature involves computer modeling of the 3-
The selection criteria for each category between the inlet vapor stream and dimensional configuration of the column
of feed device is unique. bulk vapor flow, mixing of the two internals to provide detailed predictions
vapors optimizes the performance of
of fluid flow (velocity profiles, etc). A
Liquid-Only Feeds the packing above.
commercially available CFD software
Among the factors Koch-Glitsch consid- Specific equipment for vapor distribution package is used in conjunction with
ers in designing a liquid feed device are; may not be required if sufficient column expertise developed by Koch-Glitsch to
type of distributor, expected distributor height is available for equalization or if analyze vapor and liquid distributors as
performance, flow rate, operating range, the pressure drop in the packed bed is well as packing performance.
degree of sub-cooled liquid and whether sufficient to provide proper vapor distri-
mixing with overhead liquid is required. bution. Koch-Glitsch offers CFD services for the
following tasks:
When the feed or reflux liquid is signifi- Reboiler Returns
cantly sub-cooled, a specially designed
• Development and optimization of
feed arrangement may be required. To determine the need for and the type
A liquid with a wide temperature of device required for a reboiler return, new mass transfer equipment
gradient, even if properly distributed the first step is to consider the condition • Troubleshooting or analysis of
to a packed bed, can induce mal-distribu- of the stream and its kinetic energy. existing equipment
tion due to uneven condensation. • Confirmation of equipment designs
For vapor-only returns, the kinetic prior to fabrication and installation
The feed arrangement for these condi- energy of the inlet vapor must be
tions depends on the distributor type. considered in relation to the pressure
Please consult a Koch-Glitsch technical drop in the packed bed, the feed nozzle
representative for recommendations. size and arrangement, as well as the
tower separation requirements.
Liquid-Vapor and Flashing Feeds
For a mixed liquid-vapor or suppressed
For mixed liquid-vapor or flashing feed flash reboiler return stream, the selec-
devices above a distributor, the selection tion of the device depends on flow rate,
depends on the distributor type, liquid ratio of liquid and vapor flow, flow
and vapor flow rates, turndown, column regime, nozzle size and arrangement,
height needed for disengagement and column height needed for vapor disen-
vapor distribution as well as the degree gagement and the tower separation
of mixing of the inlet liquid with the requirements.
overhead liquid. In all cases, separating
the vapor and the liquid phases is a pri-
mary concern. In some cases the
requirements for additional pre-distribu-
tion may alter certain distributor designs.
18
Model 119 INTALOX® High Performance Liquid Only Feed Pipe
Feed to INTALOX high performance Construction Details Design Options
distributors
The Model 119 feed pipe is attached • Bayonet-style construction for
The Model 119 liquid only feed pipe is used when to an internal column flange with fur- limited applications
liquid is fed from outside the column onto a Koch- ther support by tower wall clips. • All-flanged construction
Glitsch INTALOX high performance distributor or • Special design for subcooled feed
redistributor. The incoming flow must contain less Branched piping is flanged as the
than 1% vapor by volume. standard, although, piping may have
threaded connections for pipe diame-
The Model 119 feed pipe is a metered piping system ters less than 4 in. [100 mm]. For
consisting of one or more headers in conjunction large diameter headers, where man-
with lateral branches, downpipes, and/or pre-distri- way access is limiting, field welding
bution channels or parting boxes that feed directly may be required.
to an INTALOX distributor. It is limited in turndown
to a 2 : 1 ratio. The Model 119 feed pipe meters
flow to one or more appropriate feed areas, match-
ing the hydraulic requirements of the distributor.
Excessive turbulence and horizontal flow velocity in
the distributor are eliminated.
19
Model 705 Flashing Feed Chamber
Diameters up to 48 in. [1200 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Handles most two-phase feeds
For column diameters under 22 in. • Supply of bayonet inlet
The Model 705 is a two-phase feed device that is [530 mm], the Model 705 feed cham-
attached to a radial inlet. By using centrifugal force, ber is constructed in one piece. For
the vapor exits the top of the chamber and the larger diameters the chamber is con-
liquid is conducted out the bottom to a distributor structed in multiple pieces.
or pre-distributor located below.
For inlet pipe sizes less than 4 in.
One or more Model 705 chambers may be used [100 mm], the Model 705 feed cham-
in larger diameter columns if the flow rates are ber attaches to a threaded, bayonet
suitable. style pipe (supplied by others). Inlet
sizes 4 in. [100 mm] and larger
are attached with a flange as
standard.
20
Model 755 Flashing or Mixed Phase Feed Gallery
Diameters greater than 36 in. [900 mm] Construction Details Design Options
For liquid/vapor mixed or flashing feeds
Applicable for all liquid to vapor ratios The inside of the gallery is normally • Joint gasketing
polygonal, built in sections as neces- • Liquid collection from above
The Model 755 flashing feed gallery is a feed device sary for column access. The gallery is
to accommodate mixed liquid/vapor or flashing clamped to a support ring as the
feeds. Incoming flow is directed tangentially against standard attachment.
the tower wall. A gallery below the inlet deflector
collects liquid into a pool, allowing the vapor phase
to disengage. The liquid then flows directly to a
distributor or into a parting box in a controlled
manner.
In many cases the gallery can be fitted with covers
to collect liquid from a packed bed above, providing
a combination flash device with liquid collector.
21
Model 758 Enhanced Vapor Horn
Diameters greater than 6 ft [1.8 m] Construction Details Design Options
Suitable for vapor-only, mixed liquid-vapor
or flashing feeds The enhanced vapor horn is available • Radial or tangential inlets
in any weldable metal and is designed • Multiple feed inlets
Vapor horns have been utilized primarily for two for field welded assembly to provide • Heavy-duty design for increased
phase inlets of refinery fractionators. These devices maximum strength and reliability. uplift protection
are designed to provide both bulk phase separation • CFD analysis
of the vapor and liquid as well as initial distribution of This technology can be successfully • Wear plates
the feed vapor. Performance of these feed inlet adapted to a wide variety of feed
devices is critical to ensure adequate gas oil quality inlet configurations including both
and yield, maximum column capacity and proper wash radial and tangential feed nozzles as
bed performance. Koch-Glitsch’s proprietary well as the use of multiple feed inlets.
enhanced vapor horn, an extension of conventional
vapor horn technology, provides improved vapor dis-
tribution and de-entrainment of the feed.
22
Model 716 Deck Type Vapor Distributor
Diameters greater than 30 in. [760 mm] Construction Details Design Options
The Model 716 vapor distributor is a deck type used The Model 716 vapor distributor is • Liquid draw sump
to correct poor vapor distribution below a packed clamped to a support ring and typi- • Pipe downcomers, if applicable
bed. This device can be used between packed beds cally requires bolting bars and seg- • Uplift specifications
where a vapor feed is introduced or above reboiler mental supports for its downcomer
return streams. and seal pan. Midspan beams may be
used for larger diameter towers.
The vapor is metered through vapor risers as liquid
is collected from a packed bed above. The liquid Standard construction will withstand
leaves the vapor distributor through a downcomer. 50 lbs/ft2 [0.024 bar] upward force.
To perform the task of vapor distribution, the Model However, special designs are available
716 will consume some pressure drop. which can withstand greater uplift
requirements.
The turndown ratio is generally about 4 : 1, provided
pressure drop is not excessive for the process.
23
Model 748 Vapor Diffuser
Diameters greater than 48 in. [1200 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Vapor-only inlet streams
This device is attached to an internal • Bayonet inlet construction
The Model 748 vapor diffuser is used for vapor-only tower inlet flange (supplied by
feeds where the flow energy is excessive. This others) and is further supported by
device is not a vapor distributor. It reduces the a vessel wall clip as the standard
vapor energy such that a more complex vapor construction.
distributor may not be necessary.
Optionally, the inside pipe can be
The vapor diffuser uniformly meters the vapor designed to bayonet into the vapor
stream out the upper area of the pipe and the inlet nozzle, in lieu of an internal
shroud and then directs the flow downward to each flange.
side. The pressure drop across this device is
relatively low compared to the Model 746 vapor One-piece construction is standard
distributor. provided column access diameter is
sufficient. Otherwise, multi-piece
Turndown is generally 4 : 1.
construction is provided. In some
cases, field welding of multi-piece
construction may be required.
24
Model 611 Deck Style Liquid Collector
All diameters Construction Details Design Options
For total or partial liquid draw-off
Suitable to feed a liquid distributor Joint construction details are vari- • Vapor riser height
or trayed section below able depending upon the degree of • Seal welded or gasketed
leakage allowable. Both gasketed construction
The Model 611 deck collector is versatile in design and seal welded construction are • Sump configurations
and construction depending on the application available for deck sections as well • Downcomer variations
requirements. With tall vapor risers, large holdup as for attachment inside the col- • Body flange mounting
volumes can be retained on the deck. One or more umn.
sumps, downcomers or downpipes can be provided.
If the deck sections exceed the
height permitting manway access,
due to tall vapor riser height, the
vapor risers are supplied as sepa-
rate pieces. These can be supplied
as flanged, bolted and gasketed con-
struction or to be field seal welded
to the decks during installation.
The Model 621 trough collector is a good choice The center sump must be partially
where thermal expansion is a concern. The trough welded to a seat. The wall wiper is
arrangement rests on a support ring permitting free welded to the vessel as the standard.
expansion while minimizing the amount of welding to Vapor riser covers are bolted above
the vessel wall. A wall wiper above the troughs the riser area and drain into the cen-
collects and directs liquid to the troughs. Liquid ter sump.
flows from the troughs into a center sump.
The troughs and sump sizes are variable and are If the sump size required for process
designed to meet the application needs. conditions exceeds the size of man-
way access, these pieces are supplied
This collector can be used for total or partial in sections, to be field welded.
draw-off and/or to feed a liquid distributor below.
25
Model 633 Chevron Vane Liquid Collector
Diameters greater than 30 in. [760 mm] Construction Details Design Options
High vapor capacity
Low pressure drop The collector vanes are supported by • Vane shape and size
Can be used for draw-off or collection channels bolted to an annular sump. • Supply of annular sump
of liquid between packed beds The annular sump is seal welded to • Mount between vessel body
the vessel and is supplied by others. flanges
The Model 633 chevron-type vane collector can be For small diameter columns with
used as a collector for liquid draw-off or as part of a body flanges, the ring of the annular
liquid collector/redistribution system between sump may be supplied as sandwiched
packed beds. between body flanges.
When used as a collector between packed beds, it is As there are no joints to seal, no
chosen because it has low vapor phase pressure gaskets are needed for the collector
drop. itself. Gaskets may be required for
flanged connections of downpipes as
In addition to collection and mixing between beds, required.
a liquid-only feed entering the column can be intro-
duced with a simple inlet into the collector annulus.
This enables the feed to be totally mixed with the
bulk column liquid while eliminating the need for a
separate feed pipe for the inlet stream.
26
Bed Limiters
Structured Packing Random Packing Bed limiters attached to the vessel either
by clips or clamped to a support ring gen-
Bed limiters for structured packing are A packing retention device is recommend- erally require integral structural members
recommended when there is the potential ed whenever there is the potential for that can interfere with the liquid distribu-
for packing displacement during upset sufficient vapor load to fluidize the top of tion pattern. These types are not recom-
conditions. Many columns operate at a a packed bed. mended for use with high performance
low pressure drop and a low percentage liquid distributors. Only a non-interfering
of flood and are not prone to sudden As packing approaches and enters an bed limiter design should be used with
vapor surges. In these cases, bed limiters upset or flooding condition, the pressure INTALOX high performance distributors.
are not required. drop rises quickly and often uncontrol-
lably. If a packed column goes into flood, Another method of retaining packing is to
In some cases, where upset conditions are this rate will nearly always result in the use anti-migration bars at the base of the
not a concern, the Model 883 bed top of the bed being fluidized. Because vapor risers of a liquid distributor. For
limiter/liquid distributor support for conditions that result in the fluidization of most distributor designs using round or
structured packing may act as a support some or all of the packing at the top of a rectangular vapor risers, this option is
for a trough type liquid distributor. bed are difficult to predict, a packing available provided the distributor is not
Except in the case of the Model 883, the retention device is always recommended continuously subjected to high vapor load.
bed limiter is not included as part of any for random packings.
other support device. The anti-migration devices will not pre-
The two basic ways to prevent the vent the packing from becoming fluidized
Only a non-interfering bed limiter design upward movement of random packing are and unleveled at the top of the bed, but
should be used with INTALOX high to use bed limiters or anti-migration will keep the packing from being blown up
performance distributors. devices. through the vapor risers.
Bed limiters confine the packing move-
ment and either attach to the vessel wall
or rest on top of the packing. Sometimes,
locator bars are used to limit movement.
27
Model 805 Random Packing Bed Limiter, Non-Interfering
For all column diameters Construction Details Design Options
Requires no vessel attachments
Minimizes interference of drip point from Standard construction will withstand • Increased uplift resistance
high performance liquid distributors 50 lbs/ft2 [0.024 bar] upward force.
28
Model 883 Structured Packing Bed Limiter/Liquid Distributor Support
For all column diameters with structured Construction Details Design Options
packing
Supports tubular, channel or trough Standard construction is to have the • Jack screws for diameters under
type liquid distributors Model 883 bed limiter rest directly 36 in. [900 mm]
Used for large diameter columns to reduce on the structured packing with the • Attach to vessel wall clips for
structural components weight of the distributor limiting the uplift resistance
Provides limited uplift resistance bed movement.
Eliminates interference of high performance
liquid distributors As an alternative, the Model 883 bed
limiter can be attached to the vessel
The Model 883 bed limiter is primarily used for with wall clips. When attached with
large diameter columns where the tower is not clips, standard construction will with-
subject to process upsets or flooding. The bed stand 50 lbs/ft2 [0.024 bar] upward
limiter acts as a structural support and leveling force.
device for the liquid distributor. The weight of
the distributor retains the packing while simplifying
the mechanical structure needed to support the
distributor.
29
Support Plates
Every packed bed will need a support. Pressure drop calculations for all Koch- The inherent construction of structured
Two critical factors to be considered in Glitsch packings include the pressure drop packing allows it to be supported by a
the design of a packing support are: of the properly designed support. All sup- simple open grid structure.
ports are designed to handle the flow
• It must physically retain and support rates specified at the time of order place- FLEXIGRID structured packing may
the packed bed under operating ment and will not limit the capacity of the utilize a beam and/or an open grid
conditions in the column including but packing they retain. structure.
not limited to packing type and size,
design temperature, bed depth, Random packing uses a gas-injection type
operating liquid holdup, material of support that provides separate passages
construction, corrosion allowance, for liquid and vapor flow so that the two
material buildup in the bed and surge phases do not compete for the same
conditions. opening. Packing elements are retained
with specific slot openings while the con-
• It must have a high percentage of free tour of the support provides a high per-
area to allow unrestricted counter- centage of open area.
current flow of downcoming liquid and
upward flowing vapor.
30
Model 804 Random Packing Gas Injection Support Plate
Diameters greater than 36 in. [900 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Gas injection design
The support rests on a 360º support
The Model 804 gas injection support is designed to ring. Support ring load calculations
support the desired packing under the specified are the responsibility of others.
operating conditions while not limiting the capacity
of the packing. Therefore, beam height, material Columns with diameters larger than
thickness and slot size will vary depending on pack- 14 ft [4.2 m] generally require the
ing size, bed weight and process conditions. use of midspan beams. Smaller
diameter columns may require
Sections are clipped together and the assembly is midspan beams depending upon
clamped to the vessel support ring as the standard. material of construction, design load
and temperature.
31
Model 824 Light Duty Random Packing Support Plate
Diameters 4 - 36 in. [100 - 900 mm] Construction Details Design Options
Low hydraulic loading
Low support strength requirements Expanded metal is utilized in the con- • Support ring clamps for towers
struction of the Model 824 support greater than 12 in. [300 mm]
The Model 824 light duty support should only be plate and its availability may limit the • One-piece construction
used for columns with low operating bed weights materials of construction offered for
and low to moderate hydraulic loads. Typically, it is this support.
used with plastic packings or short beds of metal
random packings.
32
Construction Details
Metal
In some cases for pipe connections with diameters under 4 in.
Tower internals are available in any formable, weldable sheet [100 mm], threaded connections may be used. Please include
metal material. Where pipe is involved in the design, the choice specific requirements concerning flange type, rating or pipe
must be any weldable metal for which pipe and flanges are read- schedule specifications at the time of inquiry.
ily available. The following materials are most often used for
tower internals: Manway Access
• Carbon steel (not recommended for All tower internals are designed in sections to pass through
liquid distributors) vessel manways. Tower internals are designed to pass through
• Stainless steel (low carbon content is a vessel manway of 18 in [450 mm] minimum inside diameter,
preferred); Ferritic, Austenitic, unless otherwise specified. Larger manways often provide the
Duplex, Martensitic ability to increase turndown ratio on distributors and/or to
• Nickel alloys optimize the design of components for faster, easier installation.
• Copper alloys Please provide manway locations and sizes at the time of
• Titanium, Zirconium inquiry.
Internals are not stress relieved or annealed and do not typically Scope of Supply
conform to pressure vessel standards.
For the fabricated internals in this brochure, Koch-Glitsch sup-
Internals fabricated from sheet metal materials will be supplied plies all removable parts. The internals do not include vessel
in "as-sheared" condition. attachments, unless specifically stated in the item description, for
connection or support, although these may be quoted/supplied
Designs including corrosion allowances are available for many separately. Examples of such attachments that may be required
tower internals. Designs with corrosion allowances are not are:
recommended for liquid distributors since corrosion of the • Support rings
metering device will affect performance. Designs for INTALOX • Sump frames
high performance liquid distributors are not available with • Internal flanges at feed inlet nozzles
corrosion allowances. • Wall clips for support
• Ring channel (Model 633)
Bolting
With the exception of specific sizes for pipe flanges, all fasteners Minimum Support Ring Widths
will be 3/8 in. [10 mm] unless otherwise specified. Bolting will
conform to AISI standards. Bolting conforming to ASME specifi- all dimensions are expressed in inches [millimeters]
cations is available by special request. Internals Resting on Internals
Tower I.D. or Clamped to Through-Bolted or
Certification Support Ring Using Leveling
Screws
Material certification is available for all fabricated internals. Up to 18 0.75 1.5
Positive Material Identification (PMI) testing is available by spe- [up to 457] [20] [40]
cial request.
18.1 - 24.24 1.0 1.5
Gasketing [458 - 615] [25] [40]
For multi-piece tower internals requiring gasketed joints, many 24.25 - 48.24 1.5 2.0
choices of gasket material are available. Where gasketing is [616 - 1225] [40] [50]
required, braided fiberglass tape is supplied as the standard for
linear joints. Depending on the service, FLEXITALLIC® SF2400, 48.25 - 72.24 2.0 2.0
expanded PTFE or spiral wound stainless steel with flexible [1226 - 1835] [50] [50]
graphite filler gaskets are supplied as the standard for flanged
72.25 - 96.5 2.5 2.5
connections. Other gasket materials are available by special
[1836 - 2450] [65] [65]
request.
96.6 -144.5 3.0 3.0
Flanges [2451 - 3670] [75] [75]
For tower internals using pipe sections or branches and where 144.6 - 168.7 3.5 3.5
the connections are inside the column pressure boundary, the [3671 - 4285] [90] [90]
standard connections use flanges. These flanges may be standard
machined pipe flanges with 150 psi [PN 10] rating or flanges fab- 168.8 - 216.3 4.0 4.0
ricated by Koch-Glitsch from plate, depending on material of [4286 - 5495] [100] [100]
construction, size and availability.
216.4 - 240.5 4.5 4.5
[5496 - 6110] [115] [115]
If the support ring size is other than these listed above, special
consideration must be given to the plate diameter and vessel tolerances.
FLEXITALLIC is a registered trademark of Flexitallic Limited Corporation.
®
33
Special Tower Internals
The following is a partial list of other tower internals not specifically covered in detail in this brochure. For further information
concerning these models, please contact a Koch-Glitsch representative.
Liquid Distributors 996 Trough type distributor with drip point multipliers for very low liquid load
Feed Devices 765 Suppressed flash vapor feed distributor for flashing feed or suppressed vaporization
reboiler return
798 Vapor inlet designed for FCC Main Fractionators for extreme fouling application
Liquid Collectors 613 Deck style liquid collector for off-shore columns subject to tilt and motion
Bed Limiters 815 Anti-migration screen used to separate two different random packing sizes in a single bed
845 Bed limiter designed for random packed beds using spray nozzle distributors to
minimize disruption of spray pattern at the top of the bed
Liquid / Liquid 534 Packing support/disperser plate for use when light phase is dispersed
Extraction Internals
535 Packing support/disperser plate for use when heavy phase is dispersed
544 Feed pipe for dispersed phase to be used in conjunction with Models 534 or 535 above
34
Koch-Glitsch Corporate Offices
Worldwide Headquarters
Koch-Glitsch, LP
4111 East 37th Street North Wichita, KS 67220 – United States tel: (316) 828-5110 fax: (316) 828-7985
Europe
Koch-Glitsch Italia S.r.l.
Viale Giulio Cesare 29 24124 Bergamo – Italy tel: +39 035 2273.411 fax: +39 035 2273.400
Asia
Koch-Glitsch Korea, Ltd.
17-8, 8F, Dongsung Bldg. Seoul 150-874 – Korea tel: +82-2-3276-7500 fax: +82-2-3276-7590
Yoido-dong, Youngdeungpo-ku
For a complete list of our offices and facilities, visit us on the Web at www.koch-glitsch.com.
Emergency Numbers
US: 1-888-KOCH-911.
Europe: +39-06-928-911, +44-1782-744561, or your local Koch-Glitsch office.
Asia Pacific: Contact your local Koch-Glitsch office.
Trademarks Patents
CASCADE MINI-RINGS, FLEXIGRID, FLEXIPAC, FLEXIRING, GLITSCH GRID,
BETA RING random packing, channel distributor, enhanced vapor horn, enhanced
HY-PAK, IMTP, INTALOX, INTALOX PACKED TOWER SYSTEMS with process
V-baffle, FLEXIRING random packing, IMTP random packing, trough distributor with
tower “L”, KOCH-GLITSCH, “K” KOCH-GLITSCH and SNOWFLAKE are
drip tubes, and trough distributor with flow multiplier technologies are protected by
registered trademarks of Koch-Glitsch, LP and are registered in the US
various patents worldwide.
and various other countries worldwide. HC is a registered trademark of
Koch-Glitsch, LP and is registered in the US. BETA RING is a trademark of
Koch-Glitsch, LP and is registered in the CTM. CMR, INTALOX PACKED
TOWER SYSTEMS, and YORK-EVENFLOW are trademarks of Koch-Glitsch, LP.
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