Tower Internals: Design Practices

ExxonMobil Proprietary
FRACTIONATING TOWERS Section Page

III-H 1 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
DESIGN PRACTICES December, 2000
Changes shown by ➧
CONTENTS
Section Page
SCOPE ............................................................................................................................................................ 4
REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................................ 4
BACKGROUND .............................................................................................................................................. 4
TRAY SUPPORTS .......................................................................................................................................... 4

SUPPORT RINGS .................................................................................................................................. 4
TRUSSES ............................................................................................................................................... 4
INLETS............................................................................................................................................................ 5
LIQUID INLETS TO TOP TRAY.............................................................................................................. 5
LIQUID INLETS BETWEEN TRAYS ....................................................................................................... 7
VAPOR INLETS (INCLUDING KETTLE REBOILER RETURNS) ........................................................... 7
VAPOR-LIQUID INLETS (EXCLUDING REBOILER RETURNS) ......................................................... 10
DESIGN OF PERFORATED PIPE DISTRIBUTORS ............................................................................ 11
DESIGN / RATING OF FLASHBOX INLETS ........................................................................................ 12
DRAWOFFS (Excluding Reboiler Drawoffs).............................................................................................. 18

VAPOR DRAWOFFS ............................................................................................................................ 18
LIQUID DRAWOFF OPTIONS .............................................................................................................. 18
SPACING AND FREE AREA REQUIREMENTS FOR TRAYS WITH DRAWOFF BOXES .................. 19
SIZING THE DRAWOFF BOX AND NOZZLES .................................................................................... 19
BOTTOM DRAWOFFS ......................................................................................................................... 24
BOTTOM TRAY SEAL (SEAL PANS)................................................................................................... 26
REBOILER DRAWOFFS AND RETURNS.................................................................................................... 27

REBOILER ARRANGEMENTS............................................................................................................. 29
INTERNAL REBOILER ARRANGEMENT............................................................................................. 29
DRAWOFF PAN AND RETURN FOR RECIRCULATING REBOILERS ............................................... 29
REBOILER DRAWOFF DESIGN PROCEDURE .................................................................................. 29
MID REBOILER DRAWOFFS ....................................................................................................................... 37
INTERCOOLER DRAWOFFS ....................................................................................................................... 39
WATER DRAWOFFS.................................................................................................................................... 41
CHIMNEY TRAYS ......................................................................................................................................... 43

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS ............................................................................................................... 43
FLASH ZONES AND TANGENTIAL (ANNULAR RING) INLETS ................................................................ 51
HINGED TRAYS............................................................................................................................................ 53
TRANSITIONS .............................................................................................................................................. 54
ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

Section Page FRACTIONATING TOWERS
III-H 2 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
December, 2000 DESIGN PRACTICES
CONTENTS (Cont)
Section Page
DEENTRAINMENT DEVICES....................................................................................................................... 57
WIRE MESH ENTRAINMENT SCREENS (CWMS) ............................................................................. 57
VANE-TYPE MIST ELIMINATOR (CHEVRONS).................................................................................. 58
FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS .......................................................................................................................... 61
NOMENCLATURE ........................................................................................................................................ 66
TABLES
Table 1 Major Truss Information .................................................................................................. 5
Table 2 Setting Notch And Lip Dimensions For Circular Chimneys ........................................... 46
FIGURES
Figure 1 Tray Supports.................................................................................................................. 5
Figure 2 Liquid Inlets To Top Tray................................................................................................. 6
Figure 3 Liquid Inlets Between Trays ............................................................................................ 7
Figure 4A Vapor Inlets Between Trays ............................................................................................ 8
Figure 4B Vapor Inlets Between Trays ............................................................................................ 9
Figure 5A Vapor-Liquid Feed Distributor Between Trays Of New Towers ..................................... 10
Figure 5B Vapor-Liquid Feed Distributor For Typical Flashbox Layout.......................................... 13
Figure 5C Vapor-Liquid Feed: Flashbox Design For Side Downcomer Arrangement ................... 14
Figure 5D Vapor-Liquid Feed: Flashbox Design For Center / Off-Center
Downcomer Arrangements............................................................................................ 15
Figure 6A Perforated Pipe Distributors .......................................................................................... 16
Figure 6B Pipe Distributor Arrangement For Four-Pass Trays ...................................................... 16
Figure 7 Distributor Arrangements .............................................................................................. 17
Figure 8 Insulating Baffles For Downcomers............................................................................... 17
Figure 9 Surfaces At Feed Inlet Locations .................................................................................. 17
Figure 10 Vapor Side Drawoffs ..................................................................................................... 18
Figure 11 Drawoff Nozzle Location Vs. Diameter......................................................................... 19
Figure 12 Drawoff With Seal Dam – Side (Outboard) Downcomer................................................ 20
Figure 13 Drawoff With Seal Dam – Center (Inboard) Downcomer............................................... 20
Figure 14 Drawoff Without Seal Dam – Side (Outboard) Downcomer........................................... 21
Figure 15 Drawoff Without Seal Dam – Center (Inboard) Downcomer.......................................... 21
Figure 16 Spacing And Free Area Requirements For Trays With Drawoff Boxes ......................... 23
Figure 17A Coke Strainer (For Vacuum Pipestills, Cat Fractionators And Other
Fouling Services) .......................................................................................................... 24
Figure 17B Coke Strainer (For Delayed Coking Fractionators and Other Very Fouling Services)... 25
Figure 18 Bottom Tray Seal .......................................................................................................... 26
Figure 19 Drawoff Pan And Reboiler Return Arrangement ........................................................... 30
Figure 20A Alternative Seal Pan Elevation ...................................................................................... 33
Figure 20B Alternative Reboiler Drawoff And Return Configuration With Flashbox Return ............. 34
Figure 21 Reboiler Drawoffs (Single-Pass Trays) ......................................................................... 35
Figure 22 Reboiler Drawoffs (Two-Pass Trays)............................................................................. 36
Figure 23 Mid-Reboiler Drawoff Tray Details ................................................................................ 37
Figure 24 Intercooler Drawoff Tray Details.................................................................................... 39
Figure 25 Water Drawoff Tray Details ........................................................................................... 41
Figure 26 Chimney Trays - Layout (Total Drawoff)........................................................................ 43

III-H 3 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
CONTENTS (Cont)
Section Page
Figure 27 Spacing Requirements Of Chimney Trays .................................................................... 45
Figure 28 Details Of Drawoffs On Chimney Trays......................................................................... 48
Figure 29A Chimney Details ............................................................................................................ 49
Figure 29B V-Hat Rectangular Chimney Details .............................................................................. 50
Figure 30 Tangential Vapor-Liquid Inlet (Annular Ring)................................................................. 51
Figure 31 Pipestill Collector Ring And Collector Pan Details ......................................................... 52
Figure 32 Hinged Tray ................................................................................................................... 53
Figure 33 Tray Transitions: One-Pass To Two-Pass With Liquid Or Vapor-Liquid Feed............... 54
Figure 34 Tray Transitions: Two-Pass To One-Pass (Center Downcomer)................................... 55
Figure 35 Tray Transitions: Two-Pass To One-Pass (Side Downcomer) ...................................... 56
Figure 36 Vane-Type Mist Eliminator ............................................................................................58
Figure 37 CWMS Pressure Drop - Friction Factor ......................................................................... 59
Figure 38 CWMS Pressure Drop - Liquid Holdup .......................................................................... 60
Revision Memo
12/00 The highlights of this revision are:
1. Deleted reference to IP 5-2-1 regarding seal welding in the downcomer floor area.
2. Reverted to common industry nomenclature regarding side, center and off-center
downcomers. Also reverted to downcomer width instead of rise. (The older terms are still in
parentheses.)
3. Added discussion on the potential problem with hydraulic hammer at reflux inlets and design
considerations to avoid problems.
4. Added criteria to ensure all feed and drawoff tray assemblies do not limit tower section.
5. Added references to Section III-G for additional recommendations on vapor distributors in
packed towers.
6. Added an alternative configuration for vapor inlets between trays (new Figure 4B). Showed
alternative locations for distributor vent and drain holes (revised Figure 7C).
7. Included a discussion on designing/rating flashbox inlets and added new Figures 5B, 5C,
and 5D.
8. Added the preferred distributor arrangement for four-pass trays (new Figure 6B).
9. Added that internal piping for drawoffs is not the preferred design and made same notation
on Figure 11. Added a note to check the vendor design of seal pan weirs to avoid possible
interference from horizontal stiffening flanges. Removed option of total drawoff with no
downstream distributor from notes for Figures 12, 13, 14, 15. Showed drawoff box sloped
sides as an option in Figure 16 to minimize interference at downcomer inlets.
10. Changed discussion regarding when an extended downcomer design is permissible for
tower bottoms. Also included a discussion on the various types of tower bottom
configurations for thermosiphon reboiler circuits, forced circulation arrangements, kettle
reboiler arrangements, and internal reboiler arrangements. Included a discussion on
evaluating the impact of entrainment from the reboiler return nozzle/distributor and options to
reduce/handle entrainment. Included an alternative reboiler drawoff and return configuration
with a flashbox return (new Figure 20B). Added notes to Figures 21 and 22.
11. Added chimney tray design notes. Revised chimney tray lower open area from 10% to 15%.
Changed reasonable range for chimney tray open area from 10 to 25% to 15 to 30%. Added
comment regarding higher open area for vacuum tower chimney trays. Included the V-hat
design for rectangular chimney hats as the preferred design(new Figure 29B).
12. Added comment regarding use of conical hat chimney trays below tangential inlet to improve
vortex action and stripping tray performance.
13. Added notes for Eq. 10 and added Eq. 13. Added note stating that an orifice coefficient of
0.7 for perforated plates is adequate for rough estimates only and not suitable for detailed
head calculations for liquid distributors.
14. Added conceptual design of coker strainer for severe fouling services (new Figure 17B).

III-H 4 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
SCOPE
This section covers the techniques for specifying the process design features of tower internals other than the basic contacting
devices. Detailed mechanical design is normally handled by the fabricator. This section covers distributors, drawoffs, tray
supports, nozzle arrangements for feed and products, reboiler circuitry, coke strainers and entrainment screens. See Section
lll-G for packed or grid tower internals that are not covered here, such as liquid distributors and spray nozzles.
REFERENCES
DESIGN PRACTICES
• Section V Drums • Section XII Instrumentation
• Section IX Heat Exchange Equipment • Section XIV Fluid Flow
INTERNATIONAL PRACTICE
IP 5-2-1 Internals for Towers and Drums
➧ OTHER REFERENCES
1. Atmospheric Pipestill Guide, EMRE Manual No. EEPE 006
2. Fractionating Tower Troubleshooting Guide, EMRE Manual No. TMEE 021
3. Fuels Vacuum Pipestill Guide, EMRE Manual No. EETD 076
4. Mobil Technology Company Process Design Practices, Practices No. II, Volume No. 2, Trayed Tower Internals
5. Sideropoulos, T., Tower Reboiler Return Arrangements - Test Program Results and Tentative Recommendations for
Design Practices Changes, 99CET 018, January 28, 1999
BACKGROUND
For trouble-free startup and normal operation of fractionating towers, it is imperative that all auxiliary equipment (i.e., drawoffs,
return distributors, entrainment screens, etc.) be properly designed. The design techniques presented herein have been
developed over a number of years and will generally assure economical, trouble-free operation.
TRAY SUPPORTS
The method by which trays are supported is set by the fabricator during the detailed design. The supports must meet or
exceed the minimum standards of IP 5-2-1. The number, size, and thickness of the support members depend on several
factors, including tower diameter, the load to be supported, the need for accessibility for maintenance, and the corrosion
allowance required.
Typically, in towers with diameters less than about 10 ft (3000 mm), the entire load of the tray is transmitted to the shell via the
tray support ring which is 0.25 - 0.50 in. (6 - 13 mm) thick. In towers greater than 10 ft (3000 mm), the load is carried by one or
more trusses attached to the shell as well as by the support ring. These items are discussed in more detail below.
➧ SUPPORT RINGS
The required width of support rings (Figure 1) is generally between 2 and 3 in. (50 - 75 mm) and increases with increasing
tower diameter. The tray panels and the minor trusses are attached to the support ring by bolts or clips.
For maintaining tray efficiency at low liquid loadings in critical services, consider continuously seal welding the downcomer floor
to the support ring to prevent leakage. Also consider seal welding whenever the downcomer floor panels are oriented parallel
to the direction of liquid flow (perpendicular to the edge of the downcomer) and the seams extend under the downcomer.
➧ TRUSSES
The minor trusses on trays are frequently formed as an integral part of the tray panel (i.e., integral truss). This reduces overall
cost and permits faster installation. For tower diameters greater than about 10 ft (3000 mm) major trusses are usually needed
in addition to minor trusses and support rings (see Figure 1B and Table 1). For tower diameters up to about 20 ft (6000 mm),
these trusses usually consist of I-beams or channels. Where the tower diameter is greater than about 20 ft (6000 mm), built-up
“lattice" type trusses are normally used and two trays are usually supported from each set of trusses (Figure 1C). Enough
open area is built into “lattice" trusses to insure good lateral vapor distribution and to provide access to tray sections on both
sides of the truss.

III-H 5 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
TRAY SUPPORTS (Cont)

To prevent poor distribution of liquid and vapor on a tray, the major trusses must be parallel to the direction of liquid flow,
unless they are part of the center (inboard) or off-center downcomers on multipass trays. Support beams exceeding 20% of the
tray spacing in depth should not be placed perpendicular to the liquid flow under side (outboard) downcomers. Support beams
should not be placed under drawoff boxes perpendicular to liquid flow as they may restrict the flow of liquid into the downcomer
of the tray below and thus limit the capacity of that tray.
FIGURE 1
TRAY SUPPORTS
A B C
Tray Support Ring Major/Minor Trusses Lattice Truss
Minor
Trusses Tray A
Weld To
Shell
Major
Truss
Vessel
Tray Support Shell Liquid Flow
Ring
Tray B
DP3HF01
TABLE 1
MAJOR TRUSS INFORMATION
TOWER DIAMETER APPROXIMATE HEIGHT

Number
Feet Millimeters Inches Millimeters
≤ 10 ≤ 3000 0 0 0
> 10 ≤ 12.5 > 3000 ≤ 3750 1 10 250
> 12.5 ≤ 14.5 > 3750 ≤ 4350 1 12 300
> 14.5 ≤ 18.5 > 4350 ≤ 5550 1 14 350
> 18.5 ≤ 20 > 5550 ≤ 6000 1 16 400
> 20 — > 6000 2 or more Lattice Lattice
INLETS
Proper introduction of a vapor, liquid or vapor-liquid stream onto a tray is essential for reaching the hydraulic capacity potential
of the internals. This section contains guidelines for selection and design of a) liquid inlets to top tray, b) liquid inlets between
trays, c) vapor inlets, including kettle reboiler returns, and d) vapor-liquid inlets, excluding reboiler returns. It also includes
guidelines for the design of perforated pipe distributors. Vapor-liquid reboiler returns are discussed under REBOILER
DRAWOFFS AND RETURNS and tangential inlets are discussed under FLASH ZONES AND TANGENTIAL (ANNULAR
RING) INLETS.
➧ LIQUID INLETS TO TOP TRAY

For single pass trays, the inlet is normally a flush, radial nozzle, installed behind a false downcomer apron, with a baffle placed
above it to prevent liquid from splashing over the top of the downcomer apron and being entrained out the top of the tower;
Figure 2A. The nozzle is usually line size. For two pass trays, use a perforated pipe distributor (see DESIGN OF
PERFORATED PIPE DISTRIBUTORS) or a tee-shaped inlet as shown in Figures 2B and 2C, respectively. These three inlets
are intended only for all-liquid streams. If a mixed phase is present, refer to VAPOR-LIQUID INLETS.

III-H 6 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
INLETS (Cont)
Reflux inlets must be carefully designed for configurations in which the tower vapor can flow into the reflux line at low reflux
rates and the vapor can suddenly collapse by mixing with the colder reflux stream, resulting in hydraulic hammer and vibration.
Long horizontal piping runs at the reflux inlet nozzle elevation should be avoided. A FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST should be
consulted when evaluating options for sealing a reflux inlet nozzle or distributor with a sub-cooled reflux stream to avoid
hydraulic hammer. Although seldom used in trayed towers, reflux distributors with downtubes should be avoided. This is
because of potential problems with liquid maldistribution caused by siphoning effects. Please consult with a FRACTIONATION
SPECIALIST if you are rating a tower with this configuration.
FIGURE 2
LIQUID INLETS TO TOP TRAY
A B C
SINGLE-PASS CENTER (INBOARD) SIDE (OUTBOARD)
TRAY DOWNCOMER DOWNCOMERS
OF DOUBLE-PASS TRAY OF DOUBLE-PASS TRAY
False
Baffle Downcomers
False (7)
1.5 Dr Down- 1.5 Dr
Dr comer Dr
False
Downcomer
Baffle Dr
Top Top
Open Open
VIEW A-A VIEW B-B VIEW C-C
Baffle Perforated Pipe Baffles

Distributor
(3) False Min. (3)

False Down-
A Downcomer A B comer
(4) B C
(4)
C
Min
(4)
(6) False
(5) (2)
(1) Downcomers
(1)
(1)
DP03Hf02
Notes for Figure 2:

1. Clearance under a false downcomer(s) should be 1 in. (25 mm) or sized for a head loss of 2 in. (50 mm) of hot liquid, whichever is greater.
Use of a shaped lip is not required since there is no downcomer seal or filling issue.
2. Distance between the bottom of the perforated pipe distributor and the tray below should be about 9 in. (225 mm).
3. Minimum but not less than 4 in. (100 mm).
4. Normal tray spacing or if a manway is present, the greater of (a) normal tray spacing (if vessel head is flat plate use normal tray spacing +
Dt /4) or (b) 1.5 x (manway diameter) plus 4 in. (100 mm). If there is a demister, this is the distance to the demister. For towers with side
drawoffs, see VAPOR DRAWOFFS.
5. False center (inboard) downcomer outlet width at the bottom should be equal to the outlet width of the normal downcomers. Minimum
distance from the downcomer apron to the perforated pipe distributor is 1 in. (25 mm). Straight false downcomers are preferred but if the
distributor diameter is large, the downcomer width at the top can be increased to satisfy the minimum distance to the distributor.
6. The false center (inboard) downcomer top should be approximately at the elevation of the perforated pipe distributor center.
7. The top tray capacity should be calculated using the distributor area as waste area.

III-H 7 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
INLETS (Cont)
LIQUID INLETS BETWEEN TRAYS

A perforated pipe distributor is typically used for liquid inlets between trays (Figure 3). For distributor design information see
DESIGN OF PERFORATED PIPE DISTRIBUTORS in this section.
➧ FIGURE 3
LIQUID INLETS BETWEEN TRAYS
Notes:
(1) The distance between the bottom of the
distributor and the tray below should be about
9 in. (225 mm). Revamps or designs with
large downcomer clearances should ensure
(2) (3) that the distributor liquid impinges a minimum
A A
(4) of 2 in. (50 mm) above the clearance. An
impingement point can be determined by
(5) drawing a straight line from the center of the
distributor through the center of the distributor
(1)
holes or slots.
(2) The distance between the distributor and the
downcomer or insulating baffle (Figure 8)
should be about 3 in. (75 mm).
(3) The minimum distance between the top of the
distributor and the tray above is 8 in. (200
View A-A mm).
(4) For flooding calculations, treat the projected
area of the distributor and insulating baffle (if
used) as waste area.
The distributor holes or slots should discharge downward at a 45° angle for vertical downcomers and at a lesser angle from
the horizontal for sloped downcomers. The distributor holes should be designed according to the method outlined under
Design of Perforated Pipe Distributors in this subsection. Stepped downcomers should be avoided at tower inlet
locations. For trays with modified arc downcomers and for distributors on trays without downcomers from above (e.g., one
side of a one-to-two pass transition tray) see Design of Perforated Pipe Distributors and Figure 7(B).
(5) To prevent vaporization in the downcomer of the tray above the feed, an insulating baffle should be provided when the feed
temperature exceeds the temperature of the downcomer liquid (Figure 8). The impingement surfaces for feed inlets should
be smooth (Figure 9). DP03Hf03
➧ VAPOR INLETS (INCLUDING KETTLE REBOILER RETURNS)

Vapor inlets are typically attached to the bottom of towers with kettle reboiler circuits. Vapor inlets can be introduced into the
vessel with a flush nozzle or with a distributor. This will depend on the tray hardware being specified, inlet velocities and
pressure drop limitations.
Good quality inlet vapor distribution to a trayed column is not as critical as in a packed tower. Vapor will tend to distribute
adequately across the bubble area of the first tray. This is due to the relatively high pressure drop across a tray [about 5 in.
(125 mm) of water] compared to a packed tower [about 0.1 to 0.2 in. (2.5 to 5 mm) of water per ft (0.3 m) of packing]. In a
packed tower, the vapor flow does not have sufficient resistance to obtain a constant profile across the tower. Therefore, good
vapor distribution to a packed tower is critical. See Section III-G, VAPOR DISTRIBUTORS for guidance and design
requirements.
Vapor maldistribution at high velocities can be a problem. To limit disturbances caused by the incoming vapor, an inlet
distributor is typically used to dissipate the kinetic energy. The vapor inlet nozzle should be sized based on the pressure drop
criteria in Sections XIV-B and XIV-C. When a chimney tray is located above a vapor inlet, such as in a kettle reboiler circuit, a
flush nozzle is sufficient. However, if the velocity exceeds 100 ft/s (30 m/s), a distributor should be used to break up the inlet
velocity head.
Flush nozzle vs. distributor. A flush nozzle can be used below the bottom tray or between trays when the vapor added is
less than 6% of the tray's vapor load and good distribution is not critical. For all other cases, a distributor should be used; see
the various categories below and DESIGN OF PERFORATED PIPE DISTRIBUTORS.

III-H 8 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
INLETS (Cont)
Distributors Below the Bottom Tray should avoid interference between the vapor and the bottoms liquid or the liquid leaving
the seal pan(s). They should direct the vapor downward and toward the vessel wall, employing one or two rows of holes or
slots, each at about 45° angle from the horizontal. The distance between the top of the distributor (or flush nozzle) and the tray
above should be minimum, but not less than 8 in. (200 mm). The minimum distance between the bottom of the perforated pipe
distributor and the high (or the emergency) liquid level is the greater of 24 in. (600 mm) or one pipe diameter. See DESIGN OF
PERFORATED PIPE DISTRIBUTORS.
Distributors Below the Bottom Packed Bed should be as symmetrical as possible to minimize vapor maldistribution. They
should have 2 or more legs (i.e., be “T" or “H" shaped) and should direct the vapor downward, employing two rows of holes or
slots on each leg, each discharging at about 45° angle from the horizontal. There should be 12 in. (300 mm) between the top
of the distributor and the packed bed above. The minimum distance between the bottom of the perforated pipe distributor and
the high (or the emergency) liquid level is the greater of 24 in. (600 mm) or one pipe diameter. See DESIGN OF
PERFORATED PIPE DISTRIBUTORS and Section III-G, VAPOR DISTRIBUTORS for additional requirements.
Distributors Between Packed Beds or Distributors Between a Tray and a Packed Bed. For these less common cases see
Section III-G and consult your FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST.
Distributors or Flush Nozzles Between Trays. See Figure 4A and Figure 4B.
➧ FIGURE 4A
VAPOR INLETS BETWEEN TRAYS
Notes:
(1) Flush nozzles should be used only if the vapor added is less than 6% of
the tray’s vapor load and good distribution is not critical. They should be
(3) radial, line-size, and discharge across the tray perpendicular to the liquid
flow. Figure 4B shows an alternative configuration with an inlet baffle.
(6)
Dr (2) Perforated pipe distributors between trays should have two rows of holes
discharging horizontally in opposite directions. They should be
(5) perpendicular to the liquid flow and centered under the bubble area of the
tray above. See Design of Perforated Pipe Distributors in this
Flush Nozzle (1) (4) subsection.
or Distributor (2) (3) The distance between the top of the distributor or flush nozzle and the
tray above should be minimum, but not less than 8 in. (200 mm).
(4) Provide at least 2/3 of the normal tray spacing (the higher of the tray
below or above) between the bottom of the distributor or flush nozzle and
the tray below.
(5) The feed tray should be designed such that it is not the limiting tray in a section. The tray spacing should be the higher of:
(a) the spacing of the tray below or above, (b) the sum of the dimensions (3), (4) and Dr or (c) the tray spacing that satisfies
the tray hydraulic calculations described below.
Two sets of calculations should be made for the feed tray:
(A) For all criteria other than jet flood and ultimate capacity: Follow the standard calculation procedure (it uses the vapor
entering the tray from below and the total liquid leaving the feed tray).
(B) For jet flood and the ultimate capacity: Repeat calculation for item (A) using a waste area that includes the projected
areas of the feed distributor and the insulating baffle (if present); also, the vapor rate and density should be those of
the total vapor entering the tray above.
is directed against the downcomer and its temperature exceeds the temperature of the downcomer liquid (Figure 8).
DP03Hf04a

III-H 9 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
INLETS (Cont)
➧ FIGURE 4B
VAPOR INLETS BETWEEN TRAYS
ALTERNATIVE CONFIGURATION WITH NOZZLE INLET BAFFLE (6)
Inlet Baffle 0.5 Dr

min.
A 1.5 Dr
1 Dr
0.5 L
L Dr (Note 4)
A
C
L
0.5 Dr
(Note 2)
View A-A Dr L
(Note 3) (Note 5)
Notes:
(1) For existing nozzles, Dr is the nozzle diameter. For new nozzles, Dr and L are sized to meet a max F-factor
of 20 (24), where F-factor = Vn ρv .
(2) Minimum spacing is measured from the top of the nozzle to the tray above. This spacing applies from the
top of the baffle to the tray above. It is 6 in. (150 mm) for tower diameters < 10 ft. (3 m) and 9 in. (225 mm)
for larger towers.
(3) Inlet nozzle must be parallel with downcomer panel and located on the vessel centerline.
(4) For existing nozzles, baffle is required when F-factor > 20 (24). L is sized to limit discharge F-factor to < 20
(24) with a minimum of 1.5 Dr. The baffle is closed on the top and the bottom and open on the sides for
vapor flow.
(5) Minimum spacing is from the bottom of the nozzle to the tray below. This spacing applies from the bottom of
the baffle to the tray below. This spacing is 3/4 of the tray spacing or 18 in. (450 mm) minimum.
(6) Design Criteria from Reference 4. DP03Hf04b

III-H 10 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
INLETS (Cont)
VAPOR-LIQUID INLETS (EXCLUDING REBOILER RETURNS)

Inlet Arrangement Options. Perforated pipe distributors are used where pressure drop is not critical and some entrainment is
acceptable. They require the least tower height and should be used even when the amount of vaporization is small. For feeds
below the bottom tray use the recommendations for reboiler returns. Annular rings with tangential inlet nozzles are used where
entrainment must be minimized, such as in Pipestill flash zones (see FLASH ZONES AND TANGENTIAL INLETS). Chimney
trays with perforated pipe distributors should be used above all packed beds (see CHIMNEY TRAYS). Chimney trays should
also be considered for trayed towers where vapor/liquid disengaging may be poor, where foaming may occur (i.e., flashing into
Catacarb regenerators, multi-feed demethanizers), where the feed vapor exceeds 50% of the total vapor, and for complex feed
arrangements, such as, tower diameter (swages) transitions and tray-pass transitions.
Tangential Inlets (Annular Ring). See FLASH ZONES AND TANGENTIAL INLETS.
Distributors Between Trays of New Towers. See Figure 5A.
FIGURE 5A
VAPOR-LIQUID FEED DISTRIBUTOR BETWEEN TRAYS OF NEW TOWERS
Notes:
(1) The distance between the bottom of the
distributor and the tray below should be at
least the normal tray spacing (the higher of
the tray above or below). For evaluating
(3) (4) existing towers see the text.
(2) The distance between the distributor and the
A A downcomer or insulating baffle should be
(2) about 3 in. (75 mm).
(5) (3) The minimum distance between the top of the
(1)
distributor and the tray above is 8 in. (200
mm).
(4) The distributor holes or slots should
discharge downward at a 45° angle for
vertical downcomers and at a lesser angle
from the horizontal for sloped downcomers.
The distributor holes should be designed
View A-A according to the method outlined under
Design of Perforated Distributors in this
subsection. To ensure equal vapor/liquid
distribution between the two
passes of a two-pass tray, the feed piping arrangement should be symmetrical. For trays with modified arc downcomers and
for distributors on trays without downcomers from above (e.g., one side of a one-to-two pass transition tray) see Design of
Perforated Pipe Distributors and Figure 7(B).
temperature exceeds the temperature of the downcomer liquid (Figure 8). Downcomer apron panels at feed inlet locations
should provide a smooth surface for vapor/liquid impingement (Figure 9).
DP3HF05a
➧ Rating and Modifying Existing Vapor-Liquid Distributors Between Trays. The inlet arrangement should be evaluated by a
FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST if any of the following criteria are not met:
1. The distance between the bottom of the distributor and the tray below should be at least 2/3 of the normal tray spacing (the
higher of the tray above or below).
2. The feed impingement point on the downcomer should be a minimum of 12 in. (300 mm) above the tray deck. An
impingement point should be determined by drawing a straight line from the center of the distributor through the center of
the distributor holes or slots.
3. Criteria of Notes (2), (3), (4), or (5) in Figure 5A are not satisfied.

III-H 11 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
INLETS (Cont)
4. The adjusted jet flood and ultimate capacity should not cause the feed tray to be the limiting tray in the section. Increase
the tray spacing as required to insure this. In a revamp situation, one or 2 trays may need to be removed. Another
possible solution is to segregate the feed vapor from the feed tray rating by means of a flashbox. Please contact a
FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST for assistance with this type of design. To calculate the adjusted jet flood and ultimate
capacity: a) use a waste area that includes the projected areas of the feed distributor and any insulating baffle, b) use the
rate of the liquid leaving the trays, c) use the vapor rate and density to the tray above (except in the unusual case where
the vapor load, VL, to the feed tray is greater).
DESIGN OF PERFORATED PIPE DISTRIBUTORS

Is a Perforated Pipe Distributor Required? See the applicable Inlets or Reboiler Returns section.
Type. Four common types of distributors are shown in Figure 6A. The “Straight" distributor is typically used for inlets between
trays. It is shown in Figure 6A discharging against a downcomer. A single “straight" distributors should be used only for trayed
towers under 10 ft (3000 mm) diameter and packed towers up to 4 ft (1200 mm) diameter. “T", “U", “H" and other multiple leg
distributors are used for large diameter towers or when good distribution is critical. The pipe distributor arrangement for four-
pass trays are shown in Figure 6B. More options for the orientation of the feed nozzle are available if the feed nozzle and the
distributor are placed at different elevations (Figure 7A).
Location of the Distributor and Tray Spacing Requirements. See the applicable INLETS section.
Distributors Directed Against Downcomers. The downcomer surface must be smooth (Figure 9). An insulating baffle may
be required (Figure 8). Distributors against modified arc downcomers should conform to the shape of the downcomer
(Figure 7B).
Distributors on Trays Without Downcomers. In cases where there are not any downcomers, for example, on one side of
one-to-two-pass tray transitions, the feed can be directed against a false downcomer. Alternatively, a segmented distributor,
similar to the one illustrated in Figure 7B, can direct the feed against the vessel wall. The latter option results in higher tray
free area and lower % of jet flood.
Holes vs. Slots. Round holes tend to give a more uniform distribution than slots, and are preferred. However, slots are often
specified because they give a larger total discharge area than holes of the same width.
Hole or Slot Area. The total hole or slot area should give a pressure drop of at least 0.25 psi (1.7 kPa) but not more than 0.5
psi (3.4 kPa) at design rates. The pressure drop calculation should be based on the use of a discharge coefficient of 0.6 (see
FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 5 to Eq. 8). Depending on the conditions and flow rates, this procedure for determining the
hole or slot area may result in non-uniform distribution. See also Distribution Quality below.
Hole or Slot Size and Direction. Use round holes or narrow rectangular slots with a minimum diameter or width of 0.5 in.
(13 mm). Larger hole diameters and slot widths should be used for fouling services. For the required hole or slot direction see
the appropriate INLETS or REBOILER RETURNS section. For 2 phase feeds between trays, the opening angle “a"
(Figure 7C) should not exceed 60°. A wear plate may be required when the feed impinges against the vessel wall.
Hole or Slot Layout. Since a “straight" distributor is usually flanged inside the tower close to the vessel wall, it cannot be
perforated along its entire length. Therefore, for design purposes, assume that 10% of the distributor's length or 1 ft (300 mm)
(whichever is less) is not available for perforating. For mechanical strength, the minimum permissible distance between holes
or slots is equal to the thickness of the pipe. Provide a 0.5 in. (13 mm) drain hole at the downstream end of each distributor if
the process fluid does not discharge vertically downward.
Distributor Diameter. Accepted practice is to make the nozzle and distributor line-size. However, there are exceptions, e.g.
where flow is split, or where swaging is required to maintain velocity at the far end of distributor in slurry services.
Distribution Quality. The criteria presented here provide acceptable distribution for practically all cases. Higher pressure
drop through the holes improves distribution, however, pressure drop should not exceed 0.5 psi (3.4 kPa) as it may cause
premature flooding. If the quality of distribution is critical, contact a FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST.

III-H 12 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
INLETS (Cont)
➧ DESIGN / RATING OF FLASHBOX INLETS

Flashbox inlets have been used in heritage Mobil fractionators for two-phase feeds. Typical flashbox details for a center inlet
arrangement are shown in Figure 5B. Similar details for a typical side flashbox arrangement are shown in Figure 5C. For
multi-pass tray arrangements, the details for typical center and off-center flashbox arrangements are shown in Figure 5D. It is
important to note that flashbox arrangements typically require more tower height than heritage Exxon perforated pipe distributor
designs. Flashboxes should be considered an alternate design option for high vapor rate flashing feeds or reflux streams at the
top of towers and for reboiler returns. Important considerations for designing and rating flashbox internals are listed below:
1. Flashbox arrangements are typically used for flashing feed inlet nozzle velocities below 100 ft/s (30 m/s).
2. The discharge velocity of the two-phase mixture through the slots should be less than 6 ft/s (2 m/s).
3. The minimum width of the flashbox is twice the outside diameter of the pipe distributor or the pipe diameter plus 8 in. (200
mm), whichever is greater. The net open area must be sized to avoid entrainment by designing for a capacity factor (Cs) of
0.3 ft/s (0.1 m/s) or for 85% of ultimate capacity, whichever is less. The open area at the flashbox top excludes the area
occupied by the 2 in. (50 mm) lips on both sides of the baffles. The lips help to prevent vapor from entraining liquid off the
top of the baffle walls and also act as stiffeners to add rigidity to the flashbox side baffles.
4. A minimum distance of 18 in. (450 mm) or 3/4 of the tray spacing in the section above, whichever is greater, must be
provided between the top of the flashbox and the tray above.
5. The straight side of the baffles must be high enough to ensure that all the fluid being discharged from the distributor
impinges on the baffle and does not splash outside the box.
6. The distributor support and side baffles must be rigid enough to withstand the impact force of the fluid and vibration effects.
The minimum thickness for the flashbox baffles is 10 gauge (0.134 in.) (3.5 mm).
7. The free area adjacent to the flashbox for vapor flow from the tray below must be sized for 85% of ultimate capacity or
less.
8. The side flashbox bottom width should be sized to limit the downward liquid velocity to 0.6 ft/s (0.18 m/s) for non-foaming
systems and 0.4 ft/s (0.12 m/s) for foaming systems. The minimum allowable width is 3 in. (75 mm).
9. The minimum clearance between the side flashbox baffle bottom edge and the tray deck is the downcomer clearance plus
2 in. (50 mm). Radius tips on the flashbox baffle edges should not be used.
10. A minimum 2 in. (50 mm) spacing between the side flashbox baffle and the downcomer panel is required. This 2 in.
(50 mm) clearance prevents the flashing feed vapor/liquid from heating the liquid in the downcomer and avoids
interference with downcomer stiffeners.
11. Valves or sieve holes should not be positioned directly under a side flashbox arrangement. A minimum 2 in. (50 mm)
clearance between the flashbox baffle and the first row of valves or holes is recommended.
12. Center and off-center flashboxes can be designed with or without inlet weirs. Inlet weirs can improve liquid distribution for
the tray below the feed. Inlet weirs also may be required to seal the flashbox. The maximum horizontal liquid velocity
leaving the bottom of a flashbox is 1 ft/s (0.3 m/s) for designs without inlet weirs and 1.5 ft/s (0.5 m/s) for designs with inlet
weirs. A minimum clearance of 1 in. (25 mm) between the tray deck and the bottom of a flashbox is required.
13. The flashbox bottom width for center and off-center flashbox arrangements (with inlet weirs) should be sized to limit the
downward liquid velocity to 0.6 ft/s (0.18 m/s) for non-foaming systems and 0.4 ft/s (0.12 m/s) for foaming systems. The
flashbox bottom width for center and off-center flashbox arrangements (without inlet weirs) should be sized to limit the
downward liquid velocity based on the downcomer design below the feed.
14. A rating of the feed tray should done to insure it is not the limiting tray in the section. Please contact a FRACTIONATION
SPECIALIST on how to perform this rating.
15. A FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST should be consulted when designing or rating a flashbox. Note that downpipes or
troughs may be required when there is a seal pan above the feed inlet or when there is a change in tray geometry in the
feed zone.

III-H 13 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
INLETS (Cont)
➧ FIGURE 5B
VAPOR-LIQUID FEED DISTRIBUTOR FOR TYPICAL FLASHBOX LAYOUT (5)
Flash Baffles
(Note 3)
Internal Slots
2" (50 mm)
Flanges (Note 2)
Wide Lips
Tee
Distributor Pipe Downcomer

(Note 1) of Tray
Below
A. Typical Flashbox Arrangement
Flashbox Baffles
B. Typical Distributor Layout
1/4" (6mm) Vent Holes Supports

C
L C
L Vessel Wall
(Note 3)
Slots
Metal Web
(Note 2)
30° 30° 30° 30°
Slot Slot Slot Slot
(Note 2) 30° 30° (Note 2) 45° 45° (Note 2)
Tee End
3" End Closed
3/8" (9 mm) (75 mm) No Slots Closed
Min.Drain
Normal Vapor Rates High Vapor Rates
D. Typical Slot Arrangement
C. Typical Slot Orientation
Notes:
(1) Flashbox arrangements are appropriate for flashing feed inlet nozzle at velocities below 100 ft/s (30 m/s).
(2) The discharge velocity of the two-phase mixture through the slots should be less than 6 ft/s (2 m/s).
(3) The distributor support and side baffles must be rigid enough to withstand the impact force of the fluid and vibration
effects. The minimum thickness for the flashbox baffles is 10 gage (0.134 in.) (3.5 mm).
(4) A FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST should be consulted when designing or rating a flashbox.
(5) Design Criteria from Reference 4. DP03Hf05b

III-H 14 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ FIGURE 5C
VAPOR-LIQUID FEED: FLASHBOX DESIGN FOR SIDE DOWNCOMER ARRANGEMENT (11)
Flashbox Top Width
Tray Above Feed

3/4 TS or 18"
2" (50 mm)
Dr (450 mm) min. 2"
Approximate Feed Tray
(Note 9)
Spacing 60" (1525 mm)
(50 mm)
Flashbox 1.5 Dr
Height
(Note 5)
3/4 TS or
18" (450 mm)
c + 2"(50mm)
min. (Note 8) (Note 7) c
Tray Below Feed Inlet 2"
(50 mm)
Inlet Width
(Note 4)
Flashbox
Top Width
2" (50 mm) Wide Lip
on Each Side of Downcomer
Flashbox Panels 2" (50 mm) Width
Dr / 6 or 3" 3"(75 mm)

Flashbox Top Width (Note 6)
(75 mm) min
1/4" (6 mm) Vent Hole
Slot 30°
C Slot Flashbox
L
30° Height
3/8" (9 mm) Drain Hole
A A
Dr / 6 or 3" (Note 3)
View A-A (75 mm) min
Notes:
1. Flashing feed distributor should have an equal number of slots on each side
of distributor pipe. Maximum slot velocity is 6 ft/s (2 m/s).
2. No shaped lips are permitted on downcomer panels or flashbox baffles.
3. No slots are permitted on tee, except a 3/8" (9 mm) drain hole located on the bottom centerline of the tee.
4. Valves or sieve holes are to be omitted from the designated inlet width.
5. The free area adjacent to the flashbox for the vapor from the tray below must be sized for 85% of ultimate capacity or less.
6. The minimum width of the flashbox is twice the outside diameter of the pipe distributor or the pipe diameter plus 8 in. (200 mm),
whichever is greater. The net open area must be sized to minimize entrainment by designing for a capacity factor (Cs) of 0.3 ft/s
(0.1 m/s) or for 85% of ultimate capacity, whichever is less. The open area at the flashbox top excludes the area occupied by the 2 in. (50
mm) lips on both sides of the baffles. The lips help to prevent vapor from entraining liquid off the top of the baffle walls and also act as
stiffeners to add rigidity to the flashbox side baffles.
7. The flashbox bottom width for side flashbox arrangements should be sized to limit the downward liquid velocity to 0.6 ft/s (0.18 m/s) for
non-foaming systems and 0.4 ft/s (0.12 m/s) for foaming systems. The minimum allowable width is 3 in. (75 mm).
8. The minimum side flashbox clearance from the tray deck is the downcomer clearance plus 2 in. (50mm).
9. A minimum 2 in. (50 mm) spacing between the side flashbox baffle and the downcomer panel is required. This 2 in. (50 mm) clearance
prevents the flashing feed vapor/liquid from heating the liquid in the downcomer and avoids interference with downcomer stiffeners.
10. A FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST should be consulted when designing or rating a flashbox.
11. Design Criteria from Reference 4. DP03Hf05c

III-H 15 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ FIGURE 5D
VAPOR-LIQUID FEED: FLASHBOX DESIGN FOR
CENTER / OFF-CENTER DOWNCOMER ARRANGEMENTS (4) (5)
1- Pass Tray 2- Pass Tray
4- Pass Tray
2- Pass Tray
A. Typical Center and Off-Center Flashboxes
Flashbox Top Width (Note 1) Flashbox Top Width (Note 1 )
2" (50 mm) Lips 2" (50 mm) Lips

a a
hα 3" (75 mm) hα
3" (75 mm) min α α Flashbox α α
Height min or Dr / 6
or Dr / 6 hβ β β hβ β β
Flashbox
a a Height
Dr
B. Flashbox without Downpipe 2" (50 mm) min

Where:
Downpipe
a = greater of 3" (75 mm) or Dr / 6, in.(mm)
Dr = diameter of downpipe, in.(mm) C. Flashbox with Downpipe
α = angle above the distributor centerline (30° max.)
β = angle below the distributor centerline (45° max.)
hα = impact height above the distributor centerline, in.(mm)
hβ = impact height below the distributor centerline, in.(mm)
Maximum
Velocity Velocity dependent on
Downcomer Design for
(Note 3) Maximum Horizontal Trays Below the Feed
Velocity Under the (Note 3)
Flashbox
(Note 2)
Inlet Weirs
Width = Downcorner
Width Bottom Width of Width
Trays Below
Designs With Inlet Weirs Designs Without Inlet Weirs
D. Flashbox Designs With & Without Inlet Weirs
Notes:
1. The minimum width of the flashbox is twice the outside diameter of the pipe distributor or the pipe diameter plus 8 in. (200 mm), whichever is
greater. The net open area must be sized to avoid entrainment by designing for a capacity factor (C s) of 0.3 ft/s (0.1 m/s) or for 85% of
ultimate capacity, whichever is less. The open area at the flashbox top excludes the area occupied by the 2 in. (50 mm) lips on both sides of
the baffles. The lips help to prevent vapor from entraining liquid off the top of the baffle walls and also act as stiffeners to add rigidity to the
flashbox side baffles.
2. Center and off-center flashboxes can be designed with or without inlet weirs. Inlet weirs can improve liquid distribution for the tray below the
feed. Inlet weirs are also required to seal the flashbox. The maximum horizontal liquid velocity leaving the bottom of the flashbox is 1 ft/s
(0.3 m/s) for designs without inlet weirs and 1.5 ft/s (0.5 m/s) for designs with inlet weirs. A minimum clearance of 1 in. (25 mm) between the
tray deck to the bottom of the flashbox is required.
3. The flashbox bottom width for center and off-center flashbox arrangements (with inlet weirs) should be sized to limit the downward liquid
velocity to 0.6 ft/s (0.18 m/s) for non-foaming systems and 0.4 ft/s (0.12 m/s) for foaming systems. The flashbox bottom width for center and
off-center flashbox arrangements (without inlet weirs) should be sized to limit the downward liquid velocity based on the downcomer design
below the feed.
4. A FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST should be consulted when designing or rating a flashbox. Note that downpipes or troughs may be required
when there is a seal pan above the feed inlet or when there is a change in tray geometry in the feed zone.
5. Design Criteria from Reference 4. DP03Hf05d

III-H 16 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
INLETS (Cont)
FIGURE 6A
PERFORATED PIPE DISTRIBUTORS
Straight "T" Type "U" Type "H" Type
Preferred over "U"
(2) (2)
(2)
(1) (1)
(1) (1)
(2) (2) (1)

(1) (1)
(1) (1)
Notes:
(1) Do not perforate this section of the pipe. DP03Hf06a
(2) Capped end.
➧ FIGURE 6B
PIPE DISTRIBUTOR ARRANGEMENT FOR FOUR-PASS TRAYS
(3) (2) (2) (3)
(2) (2)
(1) (1) (1) (1)
(1) (1)
Notes:
(1) Do not perforate this section of
the pipe.
(2) Capped end.
(3) External piping to be symmetrical.
DP03Hf06b

III-H 17 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
INLETS (Cont)
➧ FIGURE 7
DISTRIBUTOR ARRANGEMENTS
C
A B Holes or slots at
"T" Distributor and Feed Nozzle Segmented Distributor For 45° Downward Angle
at Different Elevations Modified Arc Downcomers
Modified Arc Downcomer 1/4" (6 mm) Vent
Hole on End Cap
1/2" (13 mm) Drain
45°
Hole on Bottom of
Pipe at End of Lateral
α
Opening Angle Distributor

DP3HF07
(60° max.) Cross Section
FIGURE 8
INSULATING BAFFLES FOR DOWNCOMERS
Downcomer
(3) Notes:
Insulating
(1) To prevent vaporization in the downcomer of the tray above the feed, an
Baffle (1) insulating baffle should be provided when the feed temperature exceeds
the temperature of the downcomer liquid.
(2) The distance between the bottom of the insulating baffle and the tray
should be the greater of 4 in. (100 mm) or the downcomer clearance plus
2 in. (50 mm).
(3) The horizontal distance between the insulating baffle and the downcomer
(4) should be 1/2 to 1 in. (12 to 25 mm). The space between the baffle and
the downcomer should be open at both the bottom and top for drainage
and ventilation.
(2) (4) The top of the insulating baffle should be flush with the top of the
Tray distributor. DP03Hf08
➧ FIGURE 9
SURFACES AT FEED INLET LOCATIONS
Acceptable Acceptable Not Acceptable
Notes:
(1) Downcomer apron panels at feed inlet locations
should have jogged overlapping seams to
provide a smooth surface for vapor/liquid
impingement. Otherwise, a smooth, flat plate
must be installed to provide such a surface.
(2) When an insulating baffle is used, it must also
provide a smooth surface for vapor/liquid
impingement.
(3) Stepped downcomers should be avoided at
Jogged Smooth tower inlet locations. Sloped downcomers
Joint Plate Seam or
should be used instead.
Stiffening
DP3HF09
Element

III-H 18 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
DRAWOFFS (EXCLUDING REBOILER DRAWOFFS)
VAPOR DRAWOFFS
Vapor drawoffs typically use nozzles that are line size.
Deentrainment. If entrained liquid can cause product contamination, a deentrainment device, such as a crinkled wire mesh
screen (CWMS) may be considered. For the design of deentrainment devices for vapor drawoffs using collector pipes consult
your FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST.
Side Drawoffs. If not properly designed, a side drawoff can cause premature flooding due to high localized vapor velocities.
The design of a side drawoff should reduce vapor maldistribution and make allowances for any maldistribution that is expected
to occur. See Figure 10.
FIGURE 10
VAPOR SIDE DRAWOFFS
8 in.
(200mm)
(3)
(2) (2)
(3)
(1) Capped (1) Capped
End End
Notes:
(1) The bottom of the collector pipe should be one normal tray spacing plus 12 in. (300 mm) above the tray.
(2) The end of the collector pipe should have two side-facing slots located above the center of the bubbling area. The
total slot area should be about 150% of the pipe cross-sectional area.
(3) Small diameter collector pipes (say under 12 in. (300 mm) diameter) may have to be supported; consult a
MECHANICAL SPECIALIST. For revamps with limited vertical height and for towers with diameters over 8 ft (2400
mm), a more complex collector may be required. For these cases and when there is a CWMS below the drawoff or
when there is weeping from the tray above, consult a FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST. DP3HF10
LIQUID DRAWOFF OPTIONS

Partial vs. Total Drawoff. Part or all of the liquid flowing down a tower may be withdrawn as a sidestream product or as a
pumparound stream. The choice between a partial drawoff and a total drawoff normally depends on the anticipated effects on
tower control and on flow stability of the internal reflux. As a general rule, the partial drawoff rate should not exceed 75% of the
sum of the internal reflux plus product at the drawoff tray. In heat transfer sections, pumparound liquid which is pumped under
flow control through heat exchangers and then back to the pumparound section should not be included in the above formula.
Downcomer vs. Chimney Tray Drawoffs. Withdrawal may be either from a drawoff box fed by the tray downcomer or from a
chimney tray extending across the tower's cross-sectional area. Drawoffs from downcomers (drawoff box fed by downcomer)
are the most common as they require lower investment. A chimney tray should be used when (a) appreciable liquid holdup is
required, as for product surge or for water settling (see Section XII for holdup requirements), (b) when leakage cannot be
tolerated for process reasons, such as, in water wash sections where leakage into amine or caustic solutions is unacceptable,
or (c) when a drawoff box would occupy excessive tray cross-sectional area.
Total Liquid Drawoff (Drawoff Box Fed by Downcomer). The only recommended arrangements are the ones with a seal
dam (Figures 12 and 13). Arrangements without a seal dam do not provide downcomer seal and may cause premature
flooding. Occasionally, it is necessary to operate the total drawoff tray as a partial drawoff by allowing some of the liquid to
pass over the overflow weir. To handle such an operation, the tray spacing should be high enough to permit flow of all the
liquid over the overflow weir, without excessive downcomer filling. Total drawoffs designed according to the criteria in Figures
12 and 13 will permit partial drawoff operation. Drawoff arrangements with a seal dam generally occupy more of the tray's area
and thus they reduce the bubbling area and the capacity of the tray. To reduce this effect, a sloped downcomer can be used.
Partial Liquid Drawoff (Drawoff Box Fed by Downcomer). Two options are available: a) arrangements without a seal dam
(Figures 14 and 15) and arrangements with a seal dam (Figures 12 and 13). Arrangements without a seal dam are not as
effective in disengaging vapor from the liquid. They are not recommended for drawoffs where vapor in the liquid is not
acceptable, such as, drawoffs that are pumped. They are satisfactory in services where vapor disengaging in the downcomer

III-H 19 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
DRAWOFFS (EXCLUDING REBOILER DRAWOFFS) (Cont)

is rapid, or in services where some vapor entrainment with the liquid can be tolerated, such as, drawoffs sent to sidestream
strippers or disengaging drums. For all other services the arrangements with a seal dam are recommended. Drawoff
arrangements with a seal dam generally occupy more of the tray's area and thus they reduce the bubbling area and the
capacity of the tray. A sloped downcomer can reduce this effect.
Vapor disengaging and drawoff box design are particularly important in high pressure light ends towers, where the surface
tension is low and the liquid rate is usually large. These conditions produce small bubbles and make phase separation difficult.
Reboiler Drawoffs. See subsection on REBOILER DRAWOFFS AND RETURNS.
SPACING AND FREE AREA REQUIREMENTS FOR TRAYS WITH DRAWOFF BOXES
The concern with inadequate spacing is that the drawoff box may reduce the free area (Af) or it may obstruct liquid flow into the
downcomer of the tray below. Both effects may cause premature tray flooding. Figure 16 provides spacing recommendations
between the drawoff and the tray below.
➧ SIZING THE DRAWOFF BOX AND NOZZLES

Box Size. The box should have a depth of at least 6 in. (150 mm) or 1.5 times the drawoff nozzle diameter, whichever is
greater, to overcome nozzle contraction losses, which with insufficient liquid static head will result in liquid flashing in the
nozzle. The box should extend across the full chord length of the overflow weir and cover the entire chordal area. Anti-vortex
baffles(s) should be provided as indicated. For the design of anti-vortex baffles, see IP 5-2-1. The nozzle should be as close
as possible to the bottom of the box to facilitate drainage.
Number of Nozzles. To ensure design flow through a partial drawoff nozzle from a center (inboard) downcomer of a two-pass
tray, the distance along the downcomer to the nearest nozzle should be minimized. Five drawoff arrangement options are
presented in Figure 11. The second and fourth use drawoff pipes below the box. These designs are not the preferred options,
because of the risk of vaporization in these pipes caused by heat transfer from the vapor. Consult your FRACTIONATION
SPECIALIST regarding use of these configurations.
Nozzle Size. The size of the drawoff nozzle(s) should be based on a flow area which gives a maximum liquid velocity of 3 ft/s
(0.9 m/s) with the line full. See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 9. However, the nozzle should be no smaller than line size.
Liquid Height Above Nozzle. Occasionally, the designer needs to know whether a drawoff nozzle is running partially full.
This can be determined using FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 10.
➧ FIGURE 11
DRAWOFF NOZZLE LOCATION VS. DIAMETER
8 ft (2400mm) < Dt < 16 ft (4800mm) Dt ≥ 16 ft (4800mm)

Dt ≤ 8 ft (2400mm)
Preferred Preferred
Sump sized for

a maximum
downward liquid
velocity of
1 ft/s (0.3 m/s)
Dt / 2
8 ft (2400mm) < Dt < 16 ft (4800mm) Dt ≥ 16 ft (4800mm)

DP03Hf11
Not Preferred Not Preferred

III-H 20 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ FIGURE 12
DRAWOFF WITH SEAL DAM – SIDE (OUTBOARD) DOWNCOMER, (1)
Overflow
Weir
Tray
Downcomer
hd1 (6)
Overflow
Weir (3) (6)
Feed (6) C
hd2
Dd (9) Distributor (9)
(if Required) hw (3)
(2)
C+1" (1)
C
Anti-Vortex
Baffle
Tray
(5) (4)
Seal Dam
(8)
Open Top DP3HF12
Dr (7)
See Applicable Notes After Figure 15
➧ FIGURE 13
DRAWOFF WITH SEAL DAM – CENTER (INBOARD) DOWNCOMER, (1)
Seal Dam
Overflow Weir Tray
(6)
Feed hd1 (6)
Overflow
Distributor Weir (3)
(If Required) (6)
hd2
Top Open (2) (2)
C Seal
(4)
hw(3) Dam
C+1" (9) C
Anti-Vortex
Baffle Tray
Anti-Vortex
(9) Baffle (9)
(5)
(8)
(7)
Dr Dr
Dd
DP03Hf13

III-H 21 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ FIGURE 14
DRAWOFF WITHOUT SEAL DAM – SIDE (OUTBOARD) DOWNCOMER (1)
Downcomer
Tray
(6) (6)
Open
C hd1
Top
(6)
Feed hd2 hw(3)
Dd (9) Distributor
(If Required) (2)
(9) Overflow
C
Weir (3)
Anti-
Vortex (1) Tray
(5)
Baffle (8)
Overflow (4)
Weir
(7)
Dr
DP03Hf14
➧ FIGURE 15
DRAWOFF WITHOUT SEAL DAM – CENTER (INBOARD) DOWNCOMER (1)
Overflow
Weir
Tray
(10) Overflow
hd1 (6) Weir (3)
(6) (1)
(2) hd2 (6)
≥ 3 Dd
hw(3)
C
C (9)
(10)
Tray (4)
Feed
Distributor
(5)
Dr (If Required)
Dr (7) (8)
Dd
See Applicable Notes After Figure 15 DP03Hf15

III-H 22 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
NOTES FOR FIGURES 12, 13, 14, and 15:

(1) For the various drawoff arrangement options refer to LIQUID DRAWOFF OPTIONS.
(2) The clearance between the perforated pipe distributor and the overflow weir should be about 3 in. and
between the distributor and the tray below about 6 in. See DESIGN OF PERFORATED PIPE
DISTRIBUTORS in the INLETS section.
(3) Height of overflow weir (hw), above tray deck:
Condition Partial Drawoff Total Drawoff

With all-liquid distributor: 6 in. + Dr/2 6 in. + Dr/2 + 2c
No distributor: 3c + 1 in. Not applicable

For the less common cases of distributors with vapor-liquid and all-vapor feeds see your FRACTIONATION
SPECIALIST.
(4) Figures 12, 13: Width of entrance to drawoff box equals 2 times the head over the seal dam (hsd) or 3 in.,
whichever is greater. The head (hsd) is calculated by FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 3. The vendor
design should be checked for the width of any horizontal stiffening flanges at the top of the seal dam which
may restrict downward liquid flow.
Figures 14, 15: The drawoff box width should be equal to the downcomer width.
(5) Depth of drawoff box = 1.5 Dd or 6 in., whichever is greater. Box length should extend across full chord
length of the downcomer (Figures 14 and 15) or across the full chord length of the overflow weir (Figures
12 and 13) and cover the entire downcomer area. Multiple nozzles can be used to reduce box depth if
economical. See SIZING THE DRAWOFF BOX AND NOZZLES.
(6) Tray Spacing
(a) For pressure ≤ 100 psia (690 kPa), unless the system foams.
 ρL 
hd1 = (ht + 2hud )   + how + 1 (or + 25 if Metric )
 ρL - ρV 
 hd 
Minimum tray spacing is the greater of:  1 + h w  and [H (1 - fd ) + hd1 + hw ]
 fd 
(b) For pressure > 100 psia (690 kPa) or for foaming systems
 ρL 
hd2 = (ht + 2hud )   + how + h w + 1 (or + 25 if Metric )
 ρL − ρ V 
Minimum tray spacing is equal to hd2 /fd.
H is the spacing of the tray above and fd is the allowable downcomer filling expressed as a fraction. Drawoff tray
and tray above should be designed so they do not limit tower capacity. Verify that final tray spacing is such that the
drawoff tray does not limit the tray section. Calculate how from FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS Eq. 3. Calculate how
even for total drawoff cases, since the tower must be able to work in the event that total drawoff operation ceases.
(7) Vertical distance between the bottom of box and the tray below should be per Figure 16.
(8) Drawoff piping must drop 10 ft (3000 mm) vertically before it can be swaged or contain a horizontal run.
(9) Provide one tier of anti-vortex baffle that is flush with the top of the entrance to the drawoff box. Baffle length should
be ≥ 3Dd. The baffle width should be the same as the drawoff box width.
(10) Optional nozzle location (Figure 15 only). Anti-vortex baffles of length 3Dd should be provided above the nozzles
and flush with the tray deck. Please consult with a FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST regarding this design. The
drawoff piping must not interfere with the downcomer entrance on the tray below. If interference does occur, the
nozzles may be placed in the side of the drawoff box with drawoff pipe elbows oriented horizontally. Box length is
the same as the tower diameter.
WHEN METRIC DIMENSIONS ARE NOT PROVIDED USE THE FOLLOWING METRIC EQUIVALENTS
Inches mm Inches mm Inches mm
1 25 3 75 5 125
2 50 4 100 6 150

III-H 23 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ FIGURE 16
SPACING AND FREE AREA REQUIREMENTS FOR TRAYS WITH DRAWOFF BOXES
(4)
(3,4) (4) (3,4)
(3,4)
(7) (5)
(7)
Unacceptable Location (7)
of Support Beam (6) (5) Waste Area (2)
Aw /2 (1) Unacceptable Location
of Support Beam
Waste Area (2)
AW (1)
(3)
(3) (3)
CL
Notes:
(1) The minimum distance between the bottom of the drawoff box and the top of tray below should be equal to the normal tray spacing
of the tray below.
(2) Hydraulic calculations for the tray below the drawoff box should use a waste area (Aw) equal to the portion of the drawoff box area
that extends beyond the downcomer of the tray below.
(3) Hydraulic calculations should use as free area the marked area (by Arrow) minus the area of inlet distributors (if present) and any
other waste area (Aw see Note 2). If the Ab/As ratio of the trays is less than 0.40 try to increase Ab using sloped downcomers (see
Note 4) or consult your FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST.
(4) Because of its reduced free area, the tray at the drawoff box elevation may be the limiting tray of the section. To reduce the percent
flood of this tray, the tray spacing may be increased and the downcomers of the tray above may be sloped, even if straight
downcomers are used on higher trays. Downcomers can be sloped to less than 0.65 Dt chord length criterion provided the seal dam
or the overflow weir meet this criterion and the downcomer outlet velocity criteria is not exceeded. For partial drawoff services
where carryunder of some vapor is acceptable, the drawoff arrangements without a seal dam (Figures 14 and 15) may be chosen
as they will provide higher free area.
(5) The drawoff box should extend across the entire length of the overflow weir and should cover the entire chordal area (side) or tray
diameter (center).
(6) Drawing Note. The drawings provided to the tower internals vendor should include the following note: No support beams or other
construction elements should be placed under the drawoff box perpendicular to the liquid flow.
(7) Drawoff boxes may have sloped sides to minimize interference at downcomer inlets on the tray below. The minimum permissable
cross sectional area for liquid flow in the tapered section is the horizontal area at the entrance of the box.
DP3HF16

III-H 24 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
BOTTOM DRAWOFFS
Bottom drawoffs typically use nozzles that are line size. Anti-vortex baffles are required and should be designed according to
IP 5-2-1.
Coke Strainers. These are installed above the bottom nozzle inside towers where solid particles may accumulate, such as
vacuum pipestills and cracked/coker products fractionators, to keep large pieces of coke out of pump suction lines (see Figure
17A for design details). A newer design concept developed for delayed coker fractionators and other extremely fouling
services, is shown in Figure 17B. With this design, solids are not allowed to accumulate in the tower, and instead are removed
through a continuous recirculation loop that has coke crushing pump impellers and dual parallel external strainers. The return
of this recirculation system is via a ring sparger that is designed to keep the coke particles in suspension in the bottom of the
tower. The recirculation drawoff nozzle should have a cross-style vortex breaker, to avoid fouling. A standpipe strainer is
required to protect the bottoms product pumps against a massive coke drum foamover, which temporarily overwhelms the
recirculating system. Consult with a FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST and a RESID CONVERSION SPECIALIST regarding
whether this enhanced bottoms straining circuit is correct for the tower being designed and also regarding the specific internal
and external design details of this system.
FIGURE 17A
COKE STRAINER
(FOR VACUUM PIPESTILLS, CAT FRACTIONATORS AND OTHER FOULING SERVICES)
DS + 6 in.
(DS +150 mm)
DS (2) (5)
Square or round
baffle with a slope
(1) about 3 in./ft
HS (4) (0.25 mm/mm)
(3)
0.25 in. (6mm)

Clearance Open Top & Bottom
DETAIL A See DETAIL A
Notes:
(1) The strainer shall be removable to permit access to the tar pot or drawoff nozzle.
(2) The strainer diameter (Ds) should be twice the nozzle ID, however, if a tar pot is provided to minimize
bottoms holdup time, Ds should be made equal to the tar pot diameter.
(3) The entire strainer should be perforated with 3/8 in. (9 mm) holes on 1/2 in. (13 mm) square pitch. The hole
area should be at least 4 times the nozzle area (nozzle on vessel or tar pot).
(4) Strainer height as required for total hole area, but at least 12 in. (300 mm).
(5) Distance between outer edge of the baffle and strainer top should be the greater of Ds/3 or 2 in. (50 mm).
DP3HF17a

III-H 25 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ FIGURE 17B
COKE STRAINER (1)
(FOR DELAYED COKING FRACTIONATORS AND OTHER VERY FOULING SERVICES)
HHLL
Standpipe strainer
HLL
(Note 2)
Cross-style Vortex
Ring Sparger:
Breaker
Use holes in the distributor ring (See Detail A) 4 to 7 ft (1.2 - 2.1 m)
pointing down and outward at LLL (Note 2)
a 45° angle toward vessel wall.
Number of holes and ring LLLL
diameter are a function of the
system hydraulics. (A half-ring
section of the sparger is shown
for clarity.)
45°
Alternate Recirculating
Detail A
Loop Return from Strainers
Cross-style Vortex
Breaker Detail
Dd
2 Dd
To Bottoms Product Recirculating Loop

Pumps Return from Strainers
Dd
To Recirculating Loop
Dd / 2
Pump Suction
Dd Dd
2
Notes:
(1) Consult with a RESID CONVERSION SPECIALIST regarding details of this design.
(2) Liquid levels and dimensions to be confirmed during detailed process design engineering. DP03Hf17b

III-H 26 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
FIGURE 18
BOTTOM TRAY SEAL
Side (Outboard) Seal Pan Center (Inboard) Seal Pan Extended Downcomer
Tray Tray Tray
(2)
High
(2) (2)
Liquid Level
(1) Low
(1)
Liquid Level
2C 2C (3) 4 inches min.
C C
(100 mm) min.
Notes:
(1) The minimum is “c;” in most cases “2c” is preferred since wider clearances allow some solids settling without
blocking the downcomers.
(2) As required by the reboiler return arrangement (see REBOILER DRAWOFFS AND RETURNS and VAPOR INLETS
- Distributors Below the Bottom Tray) but no less than one normal tray spacing.
(3) See discussion in text on limitations of this design. DP3HF18
BOTTOM TRAY SEAL (SEAL PANS)

Figure 18 illustrates two types of bottom tray seals: seal pans for side (outboard) or center (inboard) downcomers and
extended downcomers.
Seal Pans. The seal pan designs in Figure 18 can be used for all bottom trays except for seal pan/reboiler drawoff
arrangements (see REBOILER DRAWOFFS AND RETURNS).
➧ Extended Downcomers. Extended downcomer seals have the advantage that they are not susceptible to plugging due to
solids accumulation. To prevent vaporization in the downcomer, however, they can be used only when the bottoms liquid
temperature does not exceed the temperature in the downcomer. For example, extended downcomer seals can be used for
some reboiler configurations. Also, the design shown in Figure 18 may allow some vapor that is carried under by the
downcomers, to be drawn off by the bottom nozzle. Extended downcomer designs should be reviewed by a FRACTIONATION
SPECIALIST.

III-H 27 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
REBOILER DRAWOFFS AND RETURNS

➧ Tower bottom sections and reboiler drawoffs and returns are key fractionator internals. A number of distillation problems can
be attributed to either improper bottom section design or to non-optimum reboiler circuit layouts. A properly designed tower
bottom section must accomplish the following objectives:
1. Adequately separate the incoming vapor and liquid phases.
2. Avoid mechanical damage to the surrounding internals.
3. Provide adequate hydraulics for the reboiler circuit.
4. Provide sufficient liquid residence time for downstream equipment.
5. Provide adequate hold-up volume to allow for step changes in reboiler duty.
6. Maximize the mass transfer capabilities being provided by the reboiler. Nearly one theoretical stage can be obtained by
the use of a staging baffle (see Figures 20B, 21C and 21E).
➧ The configuration of a tower bottom section is dependent on the tray geometry of the bottom tray. To simplify the tower bottom
arrangement for multi-pass trays, the following bottom tray geometry is recommended:
• For a two pass tray arrangement side downcomers are recommended.
• For a four pass tray arrangement side and center downcomers are recommended.
➧ Thermosiphon Reboilers. A staging baffle in the tower bottom section is sometimes used with a thermosiphon reboiler circuit.
A large number of configurations are available, depending on the location of the baffle, reboiler return and feed nozzles and the
geometry of the bottom trays. The three main thermosiphon circuit arrangements used in most fractionators in the order of
preference are:
• Constant head
• Preferential
• Once-through
➧ Constant Head Arrangement. This type of circuit is commonly used with recirculating thermosiphon reboilers. (See Figures
21A and 21C for one pass trays and Figure 22A for two pass trays.) With this arrangement, a fraction of the reboiler return
liquid is recirculated through the reboiler. A drawoff box or a staging baffle is typically used at the bottom of the vessel to
partition the bottom into two separate compartments. With the staging baffle arrangement, the reboiler return must be located
within the reboiler side of the baffle. This will insure that sufficient liquid is available to feed the reboiler. The excess liquid will
then spill over the baffle overflow weir to the product side. It is possible that some liquid from the tray above can mix with the
returning liquid and spill into the product side of the baffle, bypassing the reboiler completely. Thus, only a partial theoretical
stage can be expected, usually between 0.7 to 0.8 of one theoretical stage. The overflow feature of this arrangement provides
a constant hydraulic head to drive the liquid through the reboiler. A constant liquid head is essential for stable thermosiphon
reboiler operation.
The constant head or recirculating type arrangement is well suited for fluids with wide boiling ranges and fluids at moderate to
higher pressures. Because of the frequent reheating of the fluid in the drawoff box or compartment, heat sensitive materials
could breakdown, and therefore, this configuration would not be recommended.
➧ Preferential Staging Baffle Arrangement. This arrangement has a segregation baffle in the tower, with an opening to allow a
net flow from the product drawoff compartment to the reboiler feed compartment. It is considered to be a hybrid between the
constant head and the once-through arrangement.
The preferential staging baffle has the same mass transfer characteristics as the constant head arrangements. The circulation
rate through the reboiler can be controlled and varied by adjusting the liquid level in the bottom of the tower. With the
preferential layout, the reboiler operation is impervious to tower upsets and transients due to a very large liquid pool. However,
in small towers and where the tower is being operated at low liquid levels, the net bottoms rate will probably be subject to
severe fluctuations. This may be a serious disadvantage when the tower is feeding a downstream unit.
The preferential staging baffle arrangement is typically used in low pressure columns where the density difference between the
reboiler liquid feed and the two phase mixture is very large. The larger the density difference between the reboiler feed and
reboiler return mixture, the smaller the hydraulic head requirement. The preferential arrangement is not recommended in high
pressure towers, in which the tower would have to be elevated in order to achieve the hydraulic head requirements. For these
high pressure systems a constant head arrangement is preferred.
In order to take advantage of the common pool of liquid in the bottom of the vessel, the staging baffle must be designed with an
"equalizing hole" near the bottom of the baffle. The hole must be sized so as not to restrict recirculating flow into the reboiler.
Thus, the diameter of the equalizing hole must be the same as the reboiler feed nozzle.

III-H 28 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
REBOILER DRAWOFFS AND RETURNS (Cont)

The normal liquid level is determined by calculating the hydraulic head needed to circulate liquid through the reboiler, and the
maximum liquid level is determined by the process hold-up requirements. Note that with a preferential circuit, the volume in
both the reboiler and product compartments can be used for liquid hold-up. This is not the case for once-through and constant
head circuits.
➧ Once-Through Arrangement. Once-through reboiler circuits are typically used in low boil-up applications such as strippers
and amine regenerators where there is less than 20 to 30% vaporization. With this type of arrangement the reboiler feed liquid
is withdrawn from either the bottom tray downcomer drawoff box or from a partitioned vessel bottom section depending on the
internals selected. (See Figures 21D and 21E for one pass trays and Figure 22C for two pass trays.)
One method is to install a baffle to partition the vessel bottom and create separate reboiler and product sumps. The baffle
option provides the necessary flexibility in the circuit to accept hydraulic surges and can easily accommodate multipass tray
layouts.
A drawoff box can be installed below the bottom tray seal pan(s) to collect and withdraw the liquid to the reboiler. For a two
pass tray configuration, either a center downcomer drawoff box or two side downcomer drawoff boxes will be required, while in
a four pass tray configuration a total drawoff chimney tray may be more practical. Chimney trays have an additional advantage
over drawoff boxes because they catch tray weepage during startup and at low vapor rates.
In a once-through system, all of the liquid from the bottom tray is being withdrawn directly to the reboiler and remains
completely separated from the bottoms product compartment. There is no mixing or contacting with the liquid returning from
the reboiler. This is in contrast to the constant head arrangement in which the reboiler return is placed on the reboiler side of
the baffle. The reboiler feed rate is set by the tower heat balance and the bottoms product rate. Approximately one theoretical
stage can be achieved with the once-through arrangement.
One disadvantage with the once-through arrangement is that the hydraulics are very sensitive to variations in throughput or
vaporization rate. This type of circuit should not be utilized if the product rate is expected to fluctuate over a wide range. This
arrangement is not recommended if the vaporization exceeds 30%.
Under stable operation, the once-through reboiler circuit will operate at a unique height of liquid in the reboiler compartment.
This liquid height balances the hydraulic forces of the fluid through the circuit.
➧ Forced Circulation Arrangements. Forced circulation reboilers may be horizontal or vertical shell-and-tube type heat
exchangers or a fired heater. They typically operate with a high circulation rate. The pump in these circuits replaces the
hydraulic head of the thermosiphon reboilers that drive the circulation action through the reboiler. Forced circulation circuits
should be considered for the following services:
• High fouling / solid containing systems.
• When accurate and controlled circulation are essential.
• High viscosity systems.
• Vacuum units.
The tower arrangement for forced circulation circuits is the same as for the thermosiphon preferential baffle arrangements
described above. However, the need for a preferential baffle may not be as apparent as with a thermosiphon reboiler. If the
temperature difference between the liquid leaving the bottom tray and the reboiler return stream is not large enough to obtain a
theoretical stage, a preferential baffle should not be installed.
An unbaffled tower bottom section is simpler and more economical to fabricate. Hence, there is no need for a segmental baffle,
special seal pans or an extra outlet nozzle on the bottom vessel head. Thus, an unbaffled tower bottoms arrangement is
always preferred unless there is an advantage in specifying a preferential baffle.
➧ Kettle Reboiler Arrangements. With kettle reboiler circuits, the tower bottom sections are simple and require few internals.
(See Figure 21F for one pass trays and Figure 22D for two pass trays.) A reboiler baffle, reboiler return distributor or flashbox,
and a separate reboiler feed nozzle are not required. In a typical circuit, the bottoms liquid flows from the column sump to the
kettle where it is vaporized. The vapor is disengaged from the liquid within the head room provided in the kettle. Since the
disengagement space is much smaller that in a column, the kettle reboiler is not recommended for foaming liquids. Once
separated, only vapor returns to the column. Therefore, a flush vapor return nozzle is typically provided if distribution is not
critical. The unvaporized liquid overflows an internal weir into a separate compartment in the kettle. This liquid is withdrawn as
net bottoms product from the column. This compartment has a very small volume because it is impractical to incorporate the
desired liquid hold-up within the kettle. The bottom of the tower can be modified to accommodate the required product hold-up
by installing a bottom chimney tray for drawoff of the reboiler feed liquid and having the product liquid from the kettle reboiler
return to the bottom of the tower.

III-H 29 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ REBOILER ARRANGEMENTS
Figures 21 and 22 illustrate various reboiler drawoff arrangements. Under each diagram is a list of the main advantages and
disadvantages to aid the designer in selecting the most desirable drawoff for a given situation. For more information on reboiler
types and hydraulic considerations, see Section IX. For kettle reboiler returns see VAPOR INLETS.
➧ INTERNAL REBOILER ARRANGEMENT

Internal reboilers, more commonly known as stab-in bundles, are inserted directly into the column and, consequently the
performance is very similar to that of a kettle reboiler. The advantage of this design is the elimination of an exchanger shell and
all related process piping. Its size and length are limited by the tower diameter. Its major disadvantage is, however, the very
expensive maintenance, as the tower must be shut down and drained to perform repair work.
Internals for such a reboiler arrangement must be designed to assure that the bottoms liquid is uniformly distributed. A velocity
of less than 1ft/s (0.3 m/s) below the bundle is recommended.
➧ DRAWOFF PAN AND RETURN FOR RECIRCULATING REBOILERS

Figure 19 shows a typical drawoff pan arrangement, a drawoff from center (inboard) or side (outboard) downcomers. When
this type of drawoff is designed according to the REBOILER DRAWOFF DESIGN PROCEDURE, vapor entrainment to the
reboiler and slugging due to erratic liquid flow rate to the reboiler will be minimized. This will prevent reboiler surging, which
can result in premature tower flooding and inability to obtain design heat input. The design method aims at low turbulence, low
liquid velocity and adequate vapor-liquid disengagement in the drawoff pan. Figure 20B shows a similar arrangement with a
flashbox return.
REBOILER DRAWOFF DESIGN PROCEDURE

The following procedure is for center (inboard) or side (outboard) drawoff pans of recirculating thermosiphon reboilers.
However, many of the design features are general and should be considered for once-through reboilers.
1. Reboiler Feed Rate. Select the reboiler feed rate, based on the vaporization duty, such that the portion vaporized in the
reboiler is about 20 to 50 weight percent of the feed. This percentage is based on optimum heat transfer and pressure
drop in the reboiler. (See Section IX-E for additional details.)
2. Drawoff Pan Width. Calculate dimension “r" in Figure 19 from steps (a) and (b) below:
a. Size the area of the chord between the overflow weir and the vessel wall (chord height “r"), using the volumetric flow
rate of the bottoms product at conditions, for a maximum downward liquid velocity of 0.2 ft/s (0.06 m/s). The
calculated area is the minimum allowable overflow area. It corresponds to a maximum area of the drawoff pan,
improving vapor disengagement. If residence time in the pan is undesirable, such as when the liquid may decompose
or polymerize, the drawoff pan area can be reduced; contact your FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST.
b. From the area calculated in step (a) and the values given in Section III-K, Table 1, calculate dimension “r". Before
finalizing the size of “r", access to the drawoff pan should be also taken into account. A minimum spacing of 18 in.
(457 mm) should be provided for access, if possible.

III-H 30 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ FIGURE 19
DRAWOFF PAN AND REBOILER RETURN ARRANGEMENT (11)
Single-Pass or Two-Pass Tray with Side

Two-Pass Tray with Center Downcomer
Downcomers
(6) (6) Min.

Min.
(1) (1)
(10) (10)
(4)
(4)
Baffle (3) Baffle

(9) (9)
6" (2) (2) 6"

2" c c 2"
c Seal Pan c
Overflow
(2) (2)
Weir Overflow
A (7) A (7)
Weir
Seal Pan r (5) r (5)
(8)
r (5) Dd Dd
Customary in. 2 4 6 DP3HF19

Metric Equivalent: mm 50 100 150
Notes for Figure 19:

(1) Distance between distributor and baffle shall be minimum, but not less than 4 in. (100 mm).
(2) Horizontal distances downcomer-to-seal-pan-dam and seal-pan-dam-to-baffle-bottom, shall be c + 2 in. (c + 50 mm). The tray vendor
design should be checked for the width of any horizontal flanges at the top of the seal pan weir which may restrict downward liquid flow.
(3) Baffle shall extend across the entire length of the pan. Its top shall be level with the top of the reboiler return distributor. The surface
facing the distributor shall be smooth to minimize splashing.
(4) Distance from top of the overflow weir to tray above shall be at least 1.5 times the spacing of the tray above.
(5) The drawoff pan width shall be maximized, as limited by a maximum liquid velocity in the chordal area adjacent to the pan (chord height
“r") of 0.2 ft/s (0.06 m/s). Access to the drawoff pan should also be taken into account.
(6) Distance from top of reboiler return to tray above shall be minimum but not less than 12 in. (300 mm).
(7) Dimension A, the depth of the drawoff pan above the drawoff nozzle, is set by reboiler feed holdup requirements but with a minimum of 24
in. (600 mm).
(8) Alternate location of drawoff nozzle.
(9) Distance from top of overflow weir to bottom of reboiler return nozzle shall be the greater of 1 tray spacing or 18 in. (450 mm).
(10) To minimize splashing, the reboiler return should be directed against the baffle. A scale drawing must be prepared to determine the
optimum slot angle before the design is finalized.
(11) In severely fouling services, clearances may have to be increased. Consult a FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST.

III-H 31 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS

3. Holdup. Calculate Dimension A, which determines the holdup of the drawoff pan, as follows:
a. Liquid Volume in the Reboiler and its Return Piping for Design Vaporization.
a1) Liquid Volume Fraction in the Reboiler. Calculate the average liquid volume fraction (fVL) at design conditions:
 ϕ ρL  y 
fVL = ϕ  ln 1 +  − 1 Eq. (A)
 y ρ V  ϕ 
where: ϕ = ρV / (ρL- ρV)

y = Weight fraction vaporized
ρL = Liquid density at conditions, lb/ft3 (kg/m3)
ρV = Vapor density at conditions, lb/ft3 (kg/m3)
a2) Liquid Volume Fraction in the Return Piping. Calculate liquid volume fraction for design conditions from:
1- y
fVL = Eq. (B)
1+ y / ϕ
a3) Liquid Volume. Multiply these average liquid volume fractions by the total volumes of the reboiler and return
piping, respectively, to obtain the total liquid volumes. The drawoff piping to the reboiler is excluded from these
calculations since it is always assumed to be full of liquid.
b. Liquid Volume in the Reboiler and its Return Piping for Reduced Vaporization. Repeat the calculations in step
(3-a) using (0.73y) in place of y in Eq. (A) and Eq. (B). This gives the liquid volume in the reboiler and return piping
assuming a 20% reduction in vaporization rate and a simultaneous 10% increase in the total circulation rate.
c. Required Holdup. The required liquid holdup above the drawoff nozzle is the difference between the results of
steps (3-a3) and (3-b). This calculated holdup should be sufficient to supply liquid to the reboiler circuit during
changes in heat input to the reboiler. However, as mentioned under step (2-a), it may be necessary to reduce this
holdup in order to minimize residence time in certain fouling services.
d. Dimension A. Use Table 1, Section III-K and the holdup calculated in step (3-c) to calculate dimension A. Keep in
mind that the following volume of liquid is not to be included: 1) Liquid below the top of the drawoff nozzle, 2) Liquid in
the downcomer, 3) Liquid inside or upstream the seal pan. The minimum value of dimension A is 24 in. (600 mm).
4. Drawoff Nozzle Diameter (Dd). Calculate the drawoff nozzle diameter, Dd, from FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 9. If this
nozzle size exceeds the desired line size for piping to the reboiler, the line can be swaged down in the vertical run outside
the tower, at a point 10 ft (3000 mm) below the elevation of the drawoff nozzle.
➧ 5. Other Considerations.
a. Baffle Surface. The baffle should provide a smooth surface for vapor-liquid impingement. It must be fabricated and
installed so that the bolting web (if any) is on the back side of the baffle. See Figure 9. The downcomer apron should
not be used in place of a baffle.
b. Nozzles. To minimize piping lengths, the reboiler drawoff and return nozzles are normally located on the same side of
the tower. The reboiler return should be a perforated pipe distributor or flashbox.
c. Perforated Pipe Distributors. A perforated pipe distributor for reboiler return service should be designed per the
guidelines established for mixed feed inlets. All external piping arrangements feeding multipass tray geometries
should be symmetrical. The diameter of the distributor pipe must match the reboiler outlet nozzle and the pipe flow
regime and slot velocity should be checked. If necessary, the diameter of the distributor pipe should be changed to
avoid slug flow. The slot velocity should be minimized and the distributor slot pressure drop should not exceed 0.25
psi (1.7 kPa).
Due to the high momentum associated with mixed phase reboiler returns, most of the fluid will travel and impact at the
end of the nozzle. The distributor support must be rigid enough to withstand the impact force of the fluid and vibration
affects.
d. Flashbox. The flashbox design shown in Figure 5B, Figure 5C, and Figure 5D for mixed phase feed inlets may be
used for reboiler returns. A typical constant head arrangement using a flashbox for two-pass trays is shown in Figure
20B. A FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST and Reference 4 should be consulted for designing or rating a flashbox for a
reboiler return service.

III-H 32 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS

The reboiler return flashbox should always be introduced into the column parallel with the downcomers and never at
an angle or inclined. The reboiler return nozzle should always enter the centerline of the vessel for good vapor
distribution to the bottom tray. It is preferred that the flashbox be fully extended across the tower. In a multipass tray
configuration, a fully extended flashbox may not always be feasible, especially in conjunction with either once through
or preferential thermosiphon reboiler circuits. In these arrangements, the flashbox will be extended only partially with
an end plate so as to divert all the liquid to the reboiler side of the baffle.
Reboiler return flashboxes should never be installed near or at the high liquid level. This can promote excessive
entrainment and flooding and can even cause tray damage. Adequate space must be provided above the maximum
liquid level so as not to promote liquid turbulence which can cause erratic liquid level control and promote foaming.
See Figure 20B for the spacing requirements.
Sufficient height above the flashbox is needed to adequately separate the two phases and for good vapor distribution
to the tray bubble area. A minimum distance of 3/4 of a tray spacing but not less than 18 in. (450 mm) must be
provided between the top of the flashbox and the bottom tray deck.
The flashbox width must be sized so as to provide sufficient vapor/liquid disengaging space. The minimum width of
the flashbox is twice the diameter of the reboiler return nozzle or the nozzle diameter plus 8 in. (200 mm) whichever is
greater. The net open area of the flashbox must also satisfy a capacity factor (Cs) that does not exceed 0.3 ft/s
(0.9 m/s) or 85% of ultimate capacity, whichever is limiting. The bottom of the flashbox should not be sloped and must
not restrict liquid downward flow.
For once-through arrangements with multipass tray configurations, the flashbox bottom will be partially closed to
redirect all of the returning liquid to the product side of the staging baffle. For this arrangement, a minimum distance
of 1.5 times the reboiler return nozzle diameter or 24 in. (600 mm), whichever is greater, is required between the
bottom of the distributor pipe and the partial floor of the flashbox.
e. Reboiler Elevation. When specifying the elevation of the reboiler with respect to the tower, follow the guidelines in
Section IX-E. A low pressure drop valve (such as gate or butterfly) is recommended in the reboiler feed line to throttle
the circulation rate and provide a wider range of operating conditions and greater flexibility in specifying the relative
elevations of the tower and reboiler. The valve should be placed in a section of the pipe located lower than the bottom
of the reboiler.
f. Scale Drawing, Distributor Slots. To ensure that there are adequate clearances to install and operate the final
design, the designer should make a scale drawing of the entire drawoff box assembly including the tray above and its
downcomer. Using this drawing, the designer should then determine whether the slots in the return distributor should
discharge against the vertical section of the impingement baffle or its downward sloping section. The best orientation
is the one that minimizes entrainment to the tray above. It will vary from tower to tower because of differences in tray
spacing, tower and distributor diameter, etc.
g. The Reboiler as a Separation Stage. The reboiler arrangement in Figure 19 provides less than one theoretical
separation stage. If the separation effect in the reboiler is taken into account when determining the actual number of
trays required, a rigorous simulation of the reboiler arrangement is needed. If the addition of a fraction of a theoretical
stage is important, see below, Item 6c, Alternative Seal Pan Elevation.
➧ h. Liquid Entrainment from Reboiler Return to Bottom Tray. The impact of liquid entrainment from the reboiler return
nozzle/distributor to the bottom tray should be evaluated for new designs and revamps. As a first check, the bottom
tray should be rated with an additional amount of liquid equal to 5% of the reboiler return liquid. If the tray can handle
this liquid and the Cs calculated from the vapor to the bottom tray is less than 0.32 ft/s (0.098 m/s) then no further
checks need to be done. The area basis for this C-factor is the free area for vapor flow just below the reboiler return.
If neither of these conditions are met, then the calculation methods presented in Reference 2 of Section V-A and the
data in Reference 5 of this section should be used to better estimate liquid entrainment rates. The bottom tray should
be rated with the higher liquid rate to check tray capacity. If the tray capacity is exceeded, consider revising the
reboiler return configuration or provide more distributor open area to reduce vapor velocities and entrainment rates. If
the reboiler return configuration cannot be improved significantly, then consider replacing the bottom tray with a
chimney tray. This assumes that the loss of one fractionation tray will not significantly affect tower efficiency. A
chimney tray has less pressure drop and is better able to handle the additional liquid load due to entrainment. Consult
a FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST for further assistance.

III-H 33 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS

6. Revamps, Alternative Design
a. Vapor Generation in the Drawoff Pan. Vapor can be generated in the drawoff pan when the liquid returning from the
reboiler is mixed with the liquid from the downcomer. Such vaporization typically occurs when the temperature
difference between downcomer and reboiler return liquid is high. To facilitate the disengagement of such vapor and to
prevent it from being carried into the reboiler drawoff pipe, the design in Figure 19 places the downcomer seal pan
near the surface of the drawoff pan liquid. Pre-1996 designs placed the bottom of the seal pan 4 in. (100 mm) above
the top of the drawoff pipe.
b. Revamps. Several design changes were incorporated in the 1996 version of the drawoff pan design (Figure 19).
The main changes were: 1) Increase of the minimum distance from the top of the reboiler return to the bottom tray
from 4 in. (100 mm) to 12 in. (300 mm), 2) Change of the minimum distance from the bottom of the reboiler return to
the top of the drawoff pan from 18 in. (450 mm) to the greater of one tray spacing or 18 in. (450 mm), 3) Inclusion of a
minimum in dimension A, 24 in. (600 mm), 4) Elevation of the bottom of the seal pan from 4 in. (100 mm) above the
drawoff pipe to near the top of the drawoff pan. These changes were made in response to operating feedback and to
accommodate requirements of higher capacity trays used in new towers or revamps. If the requirements of the
current drawoff pan design can not be met, contact your FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST. If only the elevation of the
seal pan can not be satisfied, see Item 6c, Alternative Seal Pan Elevation.
c. Alternative Seal Pan Elevation. The main reason for locating the downcomer seal pan near the surface of the
drawoff pan (Figure 19), is to facilitate disengagement of any vapor generated when the downcomer liquid is mixed
with the reboiler return liquid. A lower seal pan elevation is acceptable (Figure 20A) as long as rigorous simulations
of the reboiler arrangement show that no vapor is generated when the reboiler return liquid is mixed with the
downcomer liquid. If some vapor is generated, elevate the seal pan according to Figure 19 or see your
FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST. A lower seal pan is also acceptable when the liquid flow into the reboiler is lower
than the downcomer liquid (no reboiler liquid recirculation, mixing of reboiler and downcomer liquids near the drawoff
pan surface).
The drawoff pan arrangement in Figure 20A allows preferential feed of the downcomer liquid to the reboiler. As a
result, the separation taking place in the reboiler provides a fraction of theoretical stage more than the design in
Figure 19.
FIGURE 20A
ALTERNATIVE SEAL PAN ELEVATION
Dd + 4" Dd + 4"
(Dd+100mm) (Dd+100mm)
Dd Dd
Note:
The elevation of the seal pan is the only design change offered by this alternative design. All other
design features illustrated in Figure 19 and described under Reboiler Drawoff Design Procedure apply.
DP03Hf20a

III-H 34 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ FIGURE 20B
ALTERNATIVE REBOILER DRAWOFF AND RETURN CONFIGURATION WITH FLASHBOX RETURN (7)
lud
1 / 2 lud Open Notes:

Closed Downcomer (1) Flashbox top and bottom are open.
Downcomer Bottom (2) Hatchway must be gasketed and leak proof.
Bottom (3) Baffle to be seal welded.
3" (75 mm) Flashbox (4) Maximum slot velocity is 6 ft/s (1.8 m/s).
Baffles (5) Top of baffle set by reboiler hydraulic head required.
2" (50 mm) (6) Consult a FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST for
Flash Box
Width of
VIEW A Lips B additional design details.
(7) See Reference 4 for additional design criteria.
End Plate B
2 Dr or Dr + 8" (200 mm), 30o

whichever is greater Slot CL Slot
30o
VIEW B-B
Dt
Bottom Tray
Dr+6"(150mm)
Side 3/4 TS or
Dr 18"(450 mm)
Downcomer
TS
(4) 1.5 Dr
Flashbox (1) or 24"
(600mm) min.
6"(150mm)
24" Overflow Weir (5)
(600mm) 9" (225mm)
min.
HLL
Reboiler Baffle (3)
CL
18" (450 mm) diameter
Baffle Hatchway (2)
LLL Optional
6" (150mm) Side Draw
LLLL
min.
T.L.
D
0.1 Dt + d
2
Dd
Vortex Breaker Outlet Nozzle
to Reboiler VIEW A
Liquid Product Outlet Nozzle DP03Hf20b

III-H 35 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ FIGURE 21
REBOILER DRAWOFFS (1) (SINGLE-PASS TRAYS)
Recirculating Reboilers
A B C
(2) (2) (2)
(5) Baffle
(5)
24 in. min.
(600mm min.)
(6)
Not Acceptable
(3)
(8,9)
Optional
(7,8,9)
Extension
(8,9) (8,9)
Product Reboiler Product Reboiler

Product
A. For thermosiphon reboilers. Baffle B. For furnaces, thermosiphon or pump- C. For furnaces, thermosiphon or pump-
insulates liquid in downcomer. Head through reboilers. Provides the largest through reboilers. Large holdup. Head
over drawoff constant. Moderate reboiler feed holdup. Head over over drawoff is constant. Close approach
holdup in pan. Reboiler start-up line drawoff varies. Provides the poorest to a theoretical stage. Baffle limits heat
required. approach to a theoretical stage of types transfer but check for vaporization under
shown. Simple construction. the downcomer where the reboiler return
is mixed with downcomer liquid.
Once-Through Reboilers
D E F
(2) (4)
(2)
(5) (5)
(7) (6)
(8,9)
(8,9) Optional
Extension
(8,9) (8,9)
Product Reboiler
Product Reboiler
D. For thermosiphon reboilers. Head over E. For furnaces, thermosiphon or pump-through F. For Kettle reboilers only. Large
drawoff varies. Moderate holdup in reboilers. Large holdup. Provides holdup. Head over drawoff
pan. Reboiler start-up line required. downcomer seal if optional extension is used. varies. Simple construction.
Notes:
(1) Detailed sizing criteria, dimensions, design of perforated pipe distributor are in the text. See also Figure A1, Section IX-E.
(2) Perforated pipe distributor(s). When impinging shell, consider using wear plate if service is erosive or corrosive.
(3) Closed drawoff box may flood tray if reboiler pressure drop increases as a result of fouling.
(4) Flush nozzle if distribution not critical. Distance to tray above minimum but not less than 8 ins. (200 mm).
(5) Weir top to distributor bottom shall be the greater of 1 tray spacing or 18 in. (460 mm).
(6) See text, Bottom Tray Seal.
(7) Limit velocity to 0.2 ft/s (0.06 m/s).
(8) Provide anti-vortex baffles per IP 5-2-1.
DP03Hf21
(9) See Figure 16, Section XII-C for liquid holdup requirements.

III-H 36 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ FIGURE 22
REBOILER DRAWOFFS (1) (TWO-PASS TRAYS)
Recirculating Reboilers
A B
Center Center
(2) (2) (2) (2) (2)
(2) Downcomer Downcomer
Baffles Side
Downcomers
Side
Downcomers (7)
(6)
(6)
Not Acceptable
(8,9) (8,9) (8,9) (3) (8,9)
Reboiler Reboiler
Product Product Product Product
A. For thermosiphon reboilers. Baffles insulate liquid in B. For furnaces, thermosiphon or pump-through reboilers.
downcomer(s). Head over drawoff constant. Moderate Provides the largest reboiler feed holdup. Head over drawoff
holdup in pan. Reboiler start-up line required. varies. Provides the poorest approach to a theoretical stage of
types shown. Simple construction.
Once-Through Reboilers
C D
Center
(2) (2) Downcomer (2) 2"
(50 mm) (4) (4) (4)
(5) (5)
Side
Downcomers (7) Center
Downcomer
(6)
Side (6)
Downcomers
(8,9) (8,9) (8,9) (8,9)
Reboiler Reboiler
Product Product
C. For thermosiphon reboilers. Head over drawoff varies. D. For kettle reboilers only. Large holdup. Head
Moderate holdup in pan. Reboiler start-up line required. over drawoff varies. Simple construction.
Notes:
(1) Detailed sizing criteria, dimensions, design of perforated pipe distributor are in the text. See also Figure A1,
Section IX-E.
(2) Perforated pipe distributor(s). When impinging shell, consider using wear plate if service is erosive or
corrosive.
(3) Closed drawoff box may flood tray if reboiler pressure drop increases as a result of fouling.
(4) Flush nozzle if distribution not critical. Distance to tray above minimum but not less than 8 in. (200 mm).
(5) Weir top to distributor bottom shall be the greater of 1 tray spacing or 18 in. (450 mm) minimum.
(6) See text, BOTTOM TRAY SEAL.
(7) Balance lines between drawoff pans may be required. Chimney tray type arrangement also possible.
(8) Provide anti-vortex baffles per IP 5-2-1.
(9) See Figure 16, Section XII-C for liquid holdup requirements. DP03Hf22

III-H 37 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
MID REBOILER DRAWOFFS

The design of mid reboiler drawoffs follows the same guidelines given for normal reboiler drawoffs. (See Figure 19 and
REBOILER DRAWOFF DESIGN PROCEDURE). However, since they are located between two fractionating trays, care must
be taken to insure that entrainment won't flood the tray above and that the drawoff box(es) do not interfere with the
performance of the tray below (see Figure 16). To achieve both of these goals, extra tray spacing is usually provided and the
drawoff tray must be a chimney tray.
➧ Specific details are shown on Figure 23. While this figure shows a two-pass center (inboard) tray configuration, it can be
readily modified for single-pass or two-pass side (outboard) downcomer designs. This design is intended to preferentially
segregate the return liquid from the liquid that normally enters the reboiler. However, it allows for some recirculation (if needed)
to satisfy the reboiler circuit hydraulic requirements. If simulations indicate that vaporization occurs when the downcomer liquid
is mixed with recirculating reboiler liquid (see REBOILER DRAWOFF DESIGN PROCEDURE, Item 6a), contact your
FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST.
FIGURE 23
MID-REBOILER DRAWOFF TRAY DETAILS (1), (2)
NOTES FOR FIGURE 23 (see next page for details):

(1) Although a two-pass tray layout is shown, the same criteria can be applied to single pass trays as well. For 3 or 4-pass trays,
consult your FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST.
(2) The designer shall make a scale drawing of this drawoff tray to ensure that there are no dimensional conflicts, vapor or liquid
flow problems or physical access limitations. If in doubt, review with your FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST.
(3) Downcomer inlet and outlet widths (rises) are set by normal tray design criteria given in the section for each device.
(4) Set chimney details including area, layout, shape and minimum distance to tray above according to CHIMNEY TRAYS,
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS. The chimneys should not obstruct the flow into the drawoff box.
(5) Provide at least 6 in. (150 mm) between the top of the notched weir and the top of the chimney. See also Note 13.
(6) Normally, make box depth 1.5 Dd. However, box depth can be reduced to Dd if the weir height ≥ Dd. Size drawoff box based
on a downward liquid velocity of < 1.0 ft/s (0.3 m/s). Two center (inboard) drawoff nozzles may be used to minimize the height
of the drawoff box by reducing nozzle size.
(7) Provide two tiers of anti-vortex baffles elevated 2 in. (50 mm) above the tray deck. Baffle length should be ≥ 3Dd or cover the
drawoff box if it is square in shape.
(8) For distance to tray below, see Figure 16. Spacing requirements given in chimney tray design should also be respected.
(9) For these dimensions refer to Figure 19, DRAWOFF PAN AND REBOILER RETURN ARRANGEMENT. The tray vendor
design should be checked for the width of any horizontal stiffening flanges at the top of the seal pan weir which may restrict
downward liquid flow.
(10) Set this dimension ≥ 1.5 times the tray spacing.
(11) Clearance between impingement baffle and tray floor should be at least 1 in. (25 mm) or based on a head loss of 1 in. (25 mm),
whichever is greater. This calculation should be based on the total liquid rate from the tray above.
(12) The surface of the impingement baffle facing the distributor shall be smooth to minimize splashing. Place support members on
the back side of the baffle. Top of baffle shall be flush with top of return distributor, Dr.
(13) Provide rectangular overflow notches at least 8 in. (200 mm) deep, use Eq. 1 in FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS. Bottom of notch
to begin at an elevation on the overflow weir set by Dimension A of Figure 19. Normal liquid height in notch should be at least
3 in. (75 mm) below top of notch.

III-H 38 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
MID REBOILER DRAWOFFS (Cont)
FIGURE 23 (Cont)
MID-REBOILER DRAWOFF TRAY DETAILS (1), (2)
Section A-A
Optional Second
(3) Nozzle Location (6)
Chimney (4)
Drawoff Box (6)
Anti-Vortex
Baffles (7)
Overflow Weir
(7) (Notched) (13)
(7)
min.
(9) (12)
(9)
Dd
c
2c
Dr min. c
(9)
(3)
(4)
(10)
18" (450 mm)
(5)
Overflow Weir
12" (Notched)
(300mm)
A (6) A
(11) (3)
(6)
(8)
c = Downcomer clearance, in. (mm). DP03Hf23

III-H 39 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
INTERCOOLER DRAWOFFS
➧ Intercooler drawoffs are provided on certain towers, such as absorbers, so that the heat of absorption can be removed from the
recirculating absorption oil. The heat transfer is done external to the tower by drawing off the absorption oil and passing it
through a heat exchanger. It is then returned to the chimney tray from which it was taken. To insure maximum heat transfer
efficiency, however, the cold liquid should not be mixed with the material being drawn off. Nevertheless, provision must be
made to recycle some of this cold oil in case the drawoff rate momentarily exceeds that available from the tray above. These
objectives are met (Figure 24) by directing the cold absorption oil against a vertical baffle that is elevated slightly above the
drawoff tray.
FIGURE 24
INTERCOOLER DRAWOFF TRAY DETAILS (1), (2)

(2) The designer shall make a scale drawing of this drawoff tray to ensure that there are no dimensional conflicts, vapor or liquid flow
problems or physical access limitations. If in doubt, review with your FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST.
(4) Set chimney details including area, layout, shape and minimum distance to tray above according to CHIMNEY TRAYS, DESIGN
CONSIDERATIONS. The chimneys should not obstruct the flow into the drawoff box.
(5) Provide at least 6 in. (150 mm) between the liquid crest over the weir and the top of the chimney.
(6) Normally, make box depth 1.5 Dd. However, box depth can be reduced to Dd if the weir height ≥ Dd. Size drawoff box based on
a downward liquid velocity of < 1.0 ft/s (0.3 m/s).
(7) Provide two tiers of anti-vortex baffles elevated 2 in. (50 mm) above the tray deck. Baffle length should be ≥ 3Dd but should not
exceed the dimensions of the drawoff box.
(8) Provide at least one normal tray spacing and ensure that downcomer filling criteria are met.
(9) For distance to tray below, see Figure 16. Spacing requirements for chimney trays should also be respected.
(10) Make this dimension large enough so that the seal dam extends horizontally 2 in. (50 mm) beyond the impingement baffle.
(11) Size hole area in distributors per DESIGN OF PERFORATED PIPE DISTRIBUTORS. Center the intercooler return distributor
above the overflow weir as shown.
(12) Clearance between impingement baffle and tray floor should be at least 1 in. (25 mm) or based on a head loss of 1 in. (25 mm),
whichever is greater. This calculation should be based on the total liquid rate from the tray above.
(13) Set this distance at 6 in. (150 mm) or twice the crest over the overflow weir, whichever is greater.
(14) The surface of the impingement baffle facing the distributor shall be smooth to minimize splashing. Place support members on
the back side of the baffle. Top of baffle shall be flush with top of return distributor, Dr.
(15) Set height of overflow weir based on holdup requirements (if any) or 9 in. (225 mm), whichever is greater.

III-H 40 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
INTERCOOLER DRAWOFFS (Cont)
FIGURE 24 (Cont)
INTERCOOLER DRAWOFF TRAY DETAILS (1), (2)
Section A-A
Dr
Impingement
Baffle
Anti-Vortex
Baffles Not
Shown
Dd
(6)
Dd
Chimney (4) (10)

c
(11) 2c
(3)
(4) (4)
(5)
(8)
6"
(150mm) 2" (50mm)
(11)
A A Dr
(7)
(7)
(13) Impingement
Baffle
(6) (14)
(6)
(15) (12)
(3)
(9)
c = Downcomer clearance, in. (mm) DP03Hf24

III-H 41 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
WATER DRAWOFFS
Water drawoffs remove insoluble water from a hydrocarbon tower. They are used in towers where water may create corrosion
problems or where it may “build up" and cause flooding, for example, when the tower top is too cold and the bottom too hot for
the water to escape. Since there is usually inadequate holdup time in the tower to achieve effective water settling, the entire
stream is withdrawn to an external drum. The hydrocarbon phase is then returned to the downcomer leaving the drawoff tray.
➧ The drawoff tray typically is a chimney tray (see Figure 25). While this figure shows a two pass side (outboard) configuration, it
can be readily modified for single pass or two pass center (inboard) downcomer designs. See your FRACTIONATION
SPECIALIST if help is needed. This tray is designed like any other chimney tray except:
• There must be sufficient liquid height on the tray between the high and low liquid level (HLL and LLL). A distance of at
least 14 in. (350 mm) should be provided, based on minimum level controller range requirements (pumped hydrocarbon
return). Review the final design with your INSTRUMENTATION SPECIALIST.
• The centerline of the hydrocarbon return nozzle(s) should be located at the elevation shown in Figure 25.
• If the hydrocarbon returns to the tray below by gravity, the height between the drawoff and return must provide the head
needed to overcome all frictional losses in the system.
In towers where water washing is necessary to remove soluble salts such as ammonium chloride, a chimney tray drawoff
following the guidelines in Figure 25 should be provided to remove the wash water. Since process conditions vary widely from
case to case, the specific application should be reviewed with a FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST before the design is initiated.
FIGURE 25
WATER DRAWOFF TRAY DETAILS (1), (2)

(2) The designer shall make a scale drawing of this drawoff tray to ensure that there are no dimensional conflicts, vapor or liquid flow
problems or physical access limitations. If in doubt, review with your FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST.
(4) Set chimney details including area, layout, shape and minimum distance to tray above according to CHIMNEY TRAYS, DESIGN
CONSIDERATIONS. The chimneys should not obstruct the flow into the drawoff box.
(5) Provide at least 6 in. (150 mm) between the top of the chimney and the top of the weir.
(6) Normally, make box depth 1.5 Dd. However, box depth can be reduced to Dd if the liquid height at the low liquid level ≥ Dd. Size
drawoff box based on a downward liquid velocity of < 1.0 ft/s (0.3 m/s). Two center (inboard) drawoff nozzles may be used to
minimize the height of the drawoff box.
(7) Provide two tiers of anti-vortex baffles elevated 2 in. (50 mm) above the tray deck. Baffle length should be ≥ 3Dd but should not
exceed the dimensions of the drawoff box.
(8) Provide at least a normal tray spacing and ensure that downcomer filling criteria are met.
(9) For distance to tray below, see Figure 16. Also see text under WATER DRAWOFFS for other criteria specific to water drawoff
trays. Spacing requirements given in chimney tray text should also be respected.
(10) Distance from top of overflow weir to tray above is set by Note 6 for Figures 12 - 15.
(11) Provide taps for a gage glass. If hydrocarbon is pumped back, also provide taps for a level controller.
(12) Distance from tray floor to LLL and from HLL to the top of the overflow weir must be ≥ 6 in. (150 mm). Distance between LLL and
HLL to be set based on holdup or instrumentation requirements.

III-H 42 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
WATER DRAWOFFS (Cont)

FIGURE 25 (Cont)
WATER DRAWOFF TRAY DETAILS (1), (2)
Section A-A
Optional Second
Nozzle Location
(3)
Dr
(7) Overflow
Chimney (4) Weir
(7)
Drawoff c
Box (6)
Dd
2c
c
(3)
(4)
(10) (5) (4) (8)
(12) HLL
(12) (11)
LLL
(12) (7)
A A
(6)
Dr
Dd
(6)
(9)
2c + 0.5 Dr DP3HF25

III-H 43 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
CHIMNEY TRAYS
Chimney trays are used to provide good vapor distribution to the internals above, liquid collection and mixing for drawoff or
internal reflux, and liquid holdup. In columns containing packing or grid, especially in vacuum towers where pressure drop is
critical, good chimney tray design is essential to provide uniform vapor distribution while minimizing pressure drop. (For packed
column designs, see Section III-G, VAPOR DISTRIBUTORS for additional guidelines.) If trays are used above the chimney
tray, vapor distribution is not critical since the pressure drop of the trays will normally “even out" the vapor flow.
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
1. Types of Liquid Drawoffs. Chimney trays can operate in the zero, partial or total drawoff mode. They can be used in
both trayed and packed columns and can have one or more passes. Figure 28 shows a chimney tray in a trayed column
that can operate in any one of these modes.
For zero or partial drawoff the reflux must overflow a weir and enter a downcomer to the tray or liquid distributor below.
Notches placed in the weir will help to even out the reflux flow rate. However, the rate may be small and will take the
swings of any process changes. If this condition is not acceptable and the reflux must be “pumped back" for control
reasons, the designer should consider changing to a total drawoff tray operating mode.
For total drawoff the liquid is typically removed from the tray by level control. Since all the liquid must be withdrawn from
the tray, every effort must be taken to provide an unobstructed path for liquid flow to the drawoff box(s). Therefore, if long
rectangular chimneys are used, their longer dimension MUST be parallel to the liquid flow to prevent gradient problems.
For design details for partial and total drawoff chimney trays, see Figures 26 and 28 and their respective notes.
For chimney trays with feed inlets, the chimney tray arrangements shown in Figures 26 and 28 have to be modified to
assure good vapor and liquid distribution and to prevent entrainment of liquid to the device above; contact your
FIGURE 26
CHIMNEY TRAYS - LAYOUT (TOTAL DRAWOFF) (1)
Round Chimneys
Long Rectangular Chimneys (Preferred) (Acceptable But Usually More Expensive)
Dd Dd
Dd
rflow
Ove on
Opti )
(2
Notes:
(1) For chimney tray details, see Figures 29 A and B and the associated text.
(2) The drawoff sump of chimney trays in severely fouling services, such as vacuum pipestill overflash drawoffs,
should be able to overflow to the space below. This is necessary in case that total drawoff is not possible due
to plugging or loss of pumps.
DP3HF26

III-H 44 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
CHIMNEY TRAYS (Cont)

➧ 2. Chimney Shape, Dimensions and Layout. For new, large diameter towers, long rectangular chimneys will usually prove
cheapest (Figure 26). Chimneys should be laid out so that liquid flow is parallel to the long side of the chimney with the
drawoff box located at the end of the chimneys. The width of the liquid path to the drawoff box or downcomer should be
adequate to avoid large liquid height gradients. The liquid levels on the chimney tray should be calculated using: (a) the
FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS for crest over a weir (Eq. 3); (b) entrance effects between chimneys and other obstructions
(Eq. 1); and (c) liquid gradient (Eq. 12). The larger of (a) + (c) or (b) + (c) should be used to calculate liquid levels at the
inlet of the tray. These heights should be low enough to prevent liquid from overflowing chimneys (at least 4-6 in. (100-150
mm) below the top of the vapor risers) and also should allow external drawoff rates to be satisfied before liquid spills over
the internal overflow weirs. To provide access to the internals below, the chimney width should be 14-16 in.
(350 - 400 mm). If access is not critical, narrower chimneys can be used.
For certain cases where long rectangular chimneys may not be practical, such as revamps or small diameter towers,
smaller square or circular chimneys can be specified (see Figure 26). When circular or square chimneys are used, their
diameter or width should be 18 in. (450 mm) if the tower diameter is greater than 8 ft (2400 mm). This is for access
reasons. If access is not critical, smaller chimneys may be used. If the tower diameter is less than 8 ft (2400 mm) a
chimney diameter less than 18 in. (450 mm) should be specified. See paragraph 3 below for further details.
Regardless of the chimney shape, the chimneys should be evenly distributed throughout the chimney tray. The use of
one larger chimney should be avoided, even in small diameter columns. This approach will minimize “funneling".
Funneling occurs when the vapor from a given area on a device has to converge into a smaller area above it. Funneling
creates high localized velocities which can lead to high entrainment and poor vapor distribution. The primary way to
minimize funneling is to use more chimneys on the chimney tray and distribute them uniformly across the entire tray area.
This reduces the area covered by each chimney and minimizes the tray spacing required. The other way to offset
funneling is to increase the spacing between the chimney tray and the device below. This, however, can be an expensive
solution. Stricter criteria for packed tower chimney layouts are discussed in Section III-G under VAPOR DISTRIBUTORS.
➧ 3. Chimney Areas. For chimneys located below trays the minimum cross-sectional area of the chimneys is the greater of:
a. 1.5 times the open area of the tray above (0.7 times if the tray above is a jet tray)
b. 15% of the tower cross-sectional area
A good design typically has chimney areas that are 15 - 20% of the chimney tray's cross-sectional area. In all cases,
adequate physical access on the chimney tray and good vapor distribution, both above and below the chimney tray must
be considered. Eq. 11 in FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS should be used to calculate the pressure drop across the chimney
tray. This pressure drop should then be used in the downcomer filling calculation for the chimney tray to ensure that the
allowable downcomer filling is not exceeded.
For chimney trays below packed beds or grid, the initial cross-sectional area of the chimneys should be calculated
based on a pressure drop of about 0.25 in. of water (6 mm of water). See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 11. This will
usually result in a tray with a reasonable chimney area (15 - 30% of the cross-sectional area). Physical access, vapor
distribution, and downcomer filling should be considered in the final design (see criteria in Section III-G under VAPOR
DISTRIBUTORS). Vacuum towers should generally have chimney areas of 30 - 35% of the tower cross sectional area to
minimize pressure drop.
The vapor flow area between the top of the chimney riser and the hat, should be set equal to the chimney cross-
sectional area.
➧ 4. Spacing Requirements Below Chimney Trays. Evenly distributed chimneys will result in better operation and in lower
tower height. When setting the chimney layout the minimum acceptable distance between the chimney tray and the
internal below that restricts vapor flow (such as a tray deck or the liquid distributor laterals or orifice deck) is the largest
value of:
a. 0.5 times the largest gap between the sides of adjacent chimneys. This applies to circular and rectangular chimneys.
For the latter, the gap used shall be the larger of the end-to-end spacing or side-to-side spacing (Figure 27).
b. 1.0 times the largest gap between a chimney and the boundaries that define the bubble area or the vapor source area
of the device below projected on to the chimney tray. The boundaries of the vapor source, for example, may be
defined by the vessel wall and the downcomer (Figure 27).
c. For trays below the chimney tray: One tray spacing plus 6 in. (150 mm) but not less than 24 in. (600 mm).
d. For packing or grid below the chimney tray: The distance required for accessing the liquid distributor.
5. Spacing Requirements Above Chimney Trays. Evenly distributed chimneys will result in better operation and in lower
tower height. To insure that the vapor will “spread out" above the hat and provide good distribution to the trays or packed
bed above, the minimum acceptable distance between top of the chimney hats and the internals above is the largest value
of: (A) 1.2 times the chimney hat diameter (or width, if rectangular), (B) 12 in. (300 mm) or (C) the distance required by the
device above the chimney tray to avoid downcomer filling limitations (see Figure 28).

III-H 45 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
FIGURE 27
SPACING REQUIREMENTS OF CHIMNEY TRAYS
Gap Gap
Gap
Gap
Source From Below (bubble Area)

Projected Boundaries of Vapor
Circular Chimneys
Rectangular Chimneys
Gap Gap
Gap
Bubble Area
Gap
Gap Gap
DP3HF27
➧ 6. Chimney Hats (see Figure 29A and 29B). All chimneys, regardless of shape, should be covered with a baffle or “hat"
whose width (or diameter if circular) is at least that of the chimney. This will minimize liquid bypassing the chimney tray.
For packed or grid beds, the chimney hat liquid rate is prorated from the total liquid rate by the ratio of chimney hat area to
packed bed cross-sectional area. For trays, the total liquid of the tray above is prorated by the ratio of chimney hat area to
the bubble area of the tray above, (worst case; assumes all liquid dumps through the tray).
For rectangular or square chimneys the preferred hat design (for new chimney tray designs) is a V-hat as shown in
Figure 29B. The older style drip chute design is shown in Figure 29A. The V-hat should be designed with a turned up lip
on 2 or 3 of its 4 sides. These turned up lips should be at least 1.5 in. [38 mm] high to form a gutter for liquid flow. The
liquid depth in the gutter should be calculated from Eq. 1 and/or Eq. 2, FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS. Then, the lip height
should be set 1/2 in. (13 mm) higher than the gutter's liquid depth, but rounded up to the next 1/2 in. (13 mm) increment
[i.e., 1.33 liquid depth becomes 1.5 in. (38 mm), and the lip height becomes 2 in. (50 mm)]. The V-hat is more leak
resistant than the drip chute design since its hat is 15% wider than the vapor riser. It also has a lower pressure drop due to
the fact that the vapor doesn’t have to make a full 90 degree turn to exit the riser. Although most V-hat designs have two
open sides for vapor flow, the third side can also be open by installing a seal dam on the V-hat at that end.
For circular chimneys, the “notch" width for liquid flow, up to 3 in. (75 mm), and the number of notches needed (normally
3 max.) should be varied to limit the lip height to 2 in. (50 mm) maximum (see also the Table below). The lip height should
be calculated in the same way as for rectangular or square chimneys. To minimize costs, place the notch above one or
more of the hat's support legs. The purpose of the notch is to control where the liquid leaves the hat so that it is not re-
entrained by the ascending vapor. Each notch should have its own drip chute (see Figure 29A).

III-H 46 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
TABLE 2
SETTING NOTCH AND LIP DIMENSIONS FOR CIRCULAR CHIMNEYS
LIQUID RATE PER HAT NUMBER OF WIDTH OF EACH NOTCH LIP HEIGHT
NOTCHES
gpm dm3/s in. mm in. mm
1 0.063 1 1 25 1.5 38
2 0.126 1 1 25 1.5 38
5 0.315 1 2 50 1.5 38
10 0.632 2 2 50 1.5 38
20 1.264 3 3 75 1.5 38
30 1.896 3 3 75 2.0 50
50 3.15 3 3 75 2.0 50
The “notch and lip" design replaces the drip ring formerly used on the underside of the hats for many years. Therefore, if a
chimney tray requires other modifications, existing drip rings should be replaced with the “notch and lip" design during
revamps. Otherwise, the drip rings can be retained as originally designed.
➧ 7. Chimney Tray Drawoff Box Location. As mentioned earlier, if long, rectangular chimneys are used, the long dimension
should be parallel to the direction of liquid flow to the drawoff box (see Figure 26). This minimizes any gradients that could
develop on the tray and helps prevent liquid overflowing the chimneys farthest from the drawoff nozzle or overflowing any
downcomer weirs before external drawoff rates are satisfied.
The depth of the drawoff box should be 6 in. (150 mm) or 1.5 Dd, whichever is greater. The drawoff box is usually square
(plan view) and sized for a maximum downward velocity of 1 ft/s (0.3 m/s). In larger towers, however, the designer should
make the box at least 18 in. x 18 in. (450 x 450 mm) square to permit easy access. If two or more nozzles are used a
rectangular or chordal box may be required. If revamps require a different box layout, see your FRACTIONATION
SPECIALIST. The drawoff nozzle(s) must be flush with the bottom of the drawoff box to permit drainage during shutdown.
Size the drawoff nozzle diameter (Dd) using FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 9. Keep the line size downstream of the
drawoff nozzle equal to Dd until the line has dropped vertically 10 ft (3000 mm) or more. Then it can be swaged. Provide 2
tiers of anti-vortex baffles above the drawoff nozzle as shown on Figure 28.
When used in a trayed column, the vertical distance between the bottom of the drawoff box and the top of the weir on the
tray below should be obtained from Figure 16. For a packed column, the vertical distance will depend on the box size, the
internal below and the need for access.
8. Chimney Height
a. Determine high liquid level (HLL) needed for process and/or control purposes and provide at least 6 in. (150 mm)
between HLL and the top of the chimney.
b. If the level on the chimney tray is controlled provide a minimum of 6 in. (150 mm) between LLL and the tray deck.
c. The minimum chimney height is 8 in. (200 mm).
9. Partial Drawoff Under Packed Beds. Part of the liquid falling from a packed bed to a partial drawoff chimney tray, falls
directly into the downcomer(s). If the amount of the liquid falling directly into the downcomer(s) is 80% or higher than the
amount desired to move to the section below, a hood above the downcomer can be used to divert the falling liquid to the
tray. For the design of the hood contact your FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST.
In drawoffs below packed beds the liquid has to cross the tray to enter the drawoff box. To assure that the desirable
amount of liquid is removed from the drawoff box and that it does not overflow the chimney risers, the liquid height on the
tray must be calculated. Adjustment in the chimney riser and weir heights may have to be made. Checking the liquid
height is especially important when the chimney trays handle large liquid rates, e.g., below pumparounds, and when the
chimneys occupy a large portion of the liquid path. Use FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 1, Eq. 3, and Eq. 12, as
discussed in 2. above.

III-H 47 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS

10. Other Considerations. In towers over 20 ft (6000 mm) in diameter, lattice trusses are likely to be used for supporting the
chimney tray since they minimize vapor maldistribution and liquid gradient problems on the active tray below. In all cases
including revamps, project follow-up engineers should make sure that the trusses or other support beams used do not
interfere with liquid or vapor flow. It is strongly recommended that the Owner review all chimney tray drawings before
fabrication approval is granted. In large diameter towers this is especially important since the vessel fabricator frequently
supplies the major trusses with the vessel while the internals vendor supplies the chimney tray. Chimney layout near the
tower manway should be checked to ensure that personnel can enter the tower easily. Chimney layout can be modified as
needed to provide access.
For a partial drawoff tray, the overflow weir should be sufficiently high to ensure the desired drawoff rate is achieved from
the drawoff box. It should have rectangular notches 8 to 10 in. (200 - 260 mm) deep if it is important to minimize changes
in overflow rate with changes in liquid level. See Figure 28 and its Note 1. Flow through the notches may be calculated
from FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 1.
In a trayed column, to assure sufficient downcomer height for the tray immediately above the chimney tray, the spacing
from the high liquid level on the chimney tray to the tray above should be set by the criteria given on Figure 28.
To minimize leakage, no manways should be provided in the floor of the chimney tray for most towers. Access should be
provided by making one (or more) of the chimney hats removable. However, if the tower diameter is less than 8 ft (2400
mm), small diameter chimneys are needed for good vapor distribution. If access through the chimney tray is required and
some leakage is acceptable, manways in the chimney tray floor are allowed. If leakage is not acceptable see your
FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST. With the exception of any necessary manways, all seams in the tray, the drawoff box,
and the chimneys must be seal welded in accordance with IP 5-2-1 to minimize leakage.
A leakage test should be performed on each chimney tray in the tower to ensure that the IP 5-2-1 requirement for
continuous seal welding has been met. Such a note should be included on the chimney tray drawing in each Design
Specification.
Each chimney tray should be provided with a level glass that covers the distance from the lower of any drawoff box floor or
chimney tray floor to 8 in. (200 mm) above the top of the chimney hat. This permits easy troubleshooting should pan
damage occur due to an operating upset.
➧ 11. Chimney layout set by the vendor. The following should be specified for chimney trays that are to be designed by the
internals vendor.
– Chimney tray open area and chimney width.
– The chimneys should be evenly distributed so that they allow uniform flow of vapor from the device below and to the
device above.
– The vendor design should be reviewed for approval by the owner before fabrication. The liquid levels on the chimney
tray should be calculated using the FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS for crest over a weir (Eq. 3), entrance effects between
chimneys and other obstructions (Eq. 1), and chimney wall flow resistance (Eq. 12), as discussed in 2. above. These
heights should be low enough to prevent liquid from overflowing chimneys and also should allow external drawoff
rates to be satisfied before liquid spills over the internal overflow weirs.
When the chimney tray layout is designed by the vendor, the spacing below the chimney should be determined using the
criteria under Spacing Requirements Below Chimney Trays using a reasonable chimney layout.

III-H 48 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ FIGURE 28
DETAILS OF DRAWOFFS ON CHIMNEY TRAYS (8)
A B
Single-Pass Arrangement Two-Pass Arrangement
(10) (10)
(9) (3) c (9)

hd1 hd1
6" (1) (1) 6"
(9) >6"
Anti-
Vortex
(3)
Baffles c 2c
(2) (2)
c
2"
c 2c 2"
(5) (5)
Anti-Vortex
Dd Dd Baffles
Vapor Downcomer
Drawoff Nozzle, D
d Risers (3) Seal Dam
(6)
Inlet
Downcomer (4) Outlet Weir
(4)
(1)
(6) (6) Outlet Weir

(7)
Seal Dam Vapor Risers (3)

Dd (4)
Customary in. 2 4 6
Metric Equivalent: mm 50 100 150
Notes:
(1) Provide rectangular notches 8 -10 in. (200 - 250 mm) deep if important to minimize changes in overflow rate with
changes in liquid level. For sizing, see Fluid Flow Equations, Eq. 1.
(2) For a discussion of holdup requirements, refer to Section XII.
(3) For chimney details, see text and either Figure 29 A or 29 B.
(4) Provide enough area so that the liquid velocity in the drawoff box ≤ 1 ft/s (0.3 m/s). Size anti-vortex baffles to cover
entire drawoff box (Figure A) or length and width equal to the box width (Figure B). Provide two tiers of baffles.
(5) 1.5 Dd or 6 in. (150 mm), whichever is greater. Also see Note 6.
(6) For large diameter towers (say > 12 ft; 3600 mm) and/or in cases where the drawoff box for a single nozzle is deep
and would interfere with the tray below, consider using two drawoff nozzles.
(7) The center row of chimneys is omitted in side view of Figure A for clarity.
(8) For chimney trays below three or more pass trays, consult your FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST for help.
(9) Tray spacing and downcomer filling above the top of the overflow weir: follow criteria outlined under Note 6 for
Figures 12 - 15. DP3HF28
(10) See text for spacing requirements above and below chimney tray.

III-H 49 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ FIGURE 29A
CHIMNEY DETAILS
(10) Circular Chimney
Hat
(6)
Isometric View
(2)
(1)
(10)
(1)
(8)
Hat (6)
(2)
(1) Hat Support
Legs
(7) (5) (3 Shown)
Di (9)
re
cti (4) (5) (9)
on (8)
of (3)
Liq Drip Chute
uid
Flo
w
(3)
Rectangular Chimney
Side View (Schematic)
Vapor
Isometric View
Liquid From
Hat
Hat (7)
This End of Chimney

Blanked Off
Chimney Drip Chute
Chimney Tray
Floor Liquid Level
on Chimney Tray
Notes:
(1) Vapor flows from three open sides.
(2) This dimension should be great enough so that the vapor flow area between the hat and the chimney equals the cross-
sectional area of the chimney.
(3) In most cases, rectangular chimney width should be 14 - 16 in. (350 - 400 mm) and circular chimney diameter should be
18 in. (450 mm). See discussion in text.
(4) Vary chimney length as needed to get the open area desired. Long side of chimney must be parallel to liquid flow on tray.
(5) This portion of chimney closed to vapor flow to prevent liquid re-entrainment. For circular chimneys, make leg width equal
to or wider than notch width. Provide a 1 in. (25 mm) drip chute angled downward at 45° to deflect falling liquid away from
the chimney. Also see Note 7.
(6) Set hat lip height at 1.5 in. (38 mm) or that determined from the procedure in the text, whichever is greater.
(7) For rectangular chimneys, leave one end of hat open. For circular chimneys, provide a notch.
(8) At least 8 in. (200 mm) or 6 in. (150 mm) above the high liquid level, whichever is greater. See text for details.
(9) Chimney horizontal stiffening members, if required, should be located at least 4 in. (100 mm) below the upper edge of the
chimney riser to prevent liquid splashing into the chimney.
(10) Chimney hat width/diameter must be at least equal to chimney width/diameter. DP03Hf29a

III-H 50 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ FIGURE 29B
V-HAT RECTANGULAR CHIMNEY DETAILS
ISOMETRIC VIEW LONG SIDE VIEW
(7) Hat Lip (6)
(2)
V-Depth
(7)
Vapor Slot
Chimney
Height (8)
(3)
140° Minimum (7)
Open Area for

Vapor Flow
Chimney Hat
(side walls only) (9)

Chimney
width (3)
(5)
(1)
(10)
(5)
Chimney
Length (4)
Chimney TOP VIEW

Width (3)
NARROW SIDE VIEW
Notes:
(1) Vapor flows from two open sides.
(2) This dimension should be great enough so that the vapor flow area between the hat and the chimney equals the cross-
sectional area of the chimney.
(3) In most cases, rectangular chimney width should be 14-16 in. (350-400 mm). See discussion in text.
(4) Vary chimney length as needed to get the open area desired. Long side of chimney must be parallel to liquid flow on tray.
(5) This portion of chimney closed to vapor flow to prevent liquid re-entrainment.
(6) Set hat lip height at 1.5 in. (38 mm) or that determined from the procedure in text, whichever is greater.
(7) For most cases, leave both ends of hat open and have two side walls of riser open for vapor flow. If more open area is
required, three sides of the riser can be open for vapor flow by installing a hat dam at the end where the third side is open.
(8) At least 8 in. (200 mm) or 6 in. (150 mm) above the high liquid level, whichever is greater. See text for details.
(9) Chimney horizontal stiffening members, if required, should be located at least 4 in. (100 mm) below the top edge of the
chimney to prevent liquid splashing into the chimney.
(10) Chimney hat width must be at least 1.15 times the chimney width.
DP3Hf29b

III-H 51 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
FLASH ZONES AND TANGENTIAL (ANNULAR RING) INLETS

➧ Where pressure drop and entrainment must be minimized, a flush, tangential nozzle with an annular ring should be used.
Pipestills usually use this type of feed inlet. The dimensions of the annular ring and the tangential inlet are given in Figure 30
and are also contained in IP 5-2-1 which also contains additional mechanical details. A conical hat collector tray may be used
in some cases below a tangential inlet to maximize the deentrainment vortex action and stripping tray efficiency. This would be
in place of a collector ring. Please contact a FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST for details. Collector ring details are in Figure 31.
FIGURE 30
TANGENTIAL VAPOR-LIQUID INLET (ANNULAR RING)
DN + 2 in.
(4)
2 in. (50mm)
(DN+ 50mm)
(7)
(300mm)
(4) Core Dia. DR (1)
12 in.
A Tangential Inlet A
is Inside Annular ring
(One Inlet Shown) (3)
DN
2.5 DN
Core
(7)
Annular Ring Plate
Wear Plate (7)

min.
(5)
Collector Ring (6)
View A-A
Second Nozzle (2)
Location (if needed)
Notes:
(1) The capacity factor (Cs) for the “core" as defined by DR , should not exceed 0.5 (Customary) or 0.15 (Metric). Cs is defined as vapor
load, VL, divided by the “core" cross-sectional area. If Cs exceeds the recommended value, consider using two inlet nozzles to reduce
DN and thus increase DR. If the core velocity is still too high or the tower pressure exceeds 50 psia (345 kPa), consult your
(2) When two nozzles are used, they should provide rotation in the same direction.
(3) No support members are permitted within the annular ring.
(4) The tangential feed nozzle(s) may be offset by up to 2 in. (50 mm) from the vessel wall. Their projection should not intersect the inner
annular ring wall, that is, an unobstructed path should be provided for the vapor entering the annular ring.
(5) Minimum distance is the greater of 0.25 DR or 24 in. (600 mm).
(6) For mechanical details see IP 5-2-1. For collector ring details see Figure 31.
(7) Annular ring plate and wear plate thickness 0.5 in. (12 mm) unless otherwise specified. DP03Hf30

III-H 52 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
FLASH ZONES AND TANGENTIAL (ANNULAR RING) INLETS (Cont)
➧ FIGURE 31
PIPESTILL COLLECTOR RING AND COLLECTOR PAN DETAILS
Pipestill Collector Ring Pipestill Collector Pan
(For Swaged Towers) (For Straight Side Towers)
D = Diameter of
Stripping Section Open Top
(7)
A A
(4)
False (5)
(2) Downcomer (1) (3) 18"
(450mm)
Section A-A
Open Top
False
Downcomers 18"
(1) (450mm) (6)
C
(2)
Diameter of
Stripping Section
Notes:
(1) For one-pass trays, the collector ring should have only one false downcomer.
(2) Outlet weirs and anti-jump baffles not shown for clarity.
(3) For one-pass trays, the collector pan would have an outboard downcomer.
(4) Anti-jump baffle not shown, outlet weirs not required.
(5) For chimney tray details see Chimney Trays, Design Considerations.
(6) Outer edge of chimneys should fall within circle with diameter equal to the tower internal diameter minus the width of the
annular ring above. This prevents feed liquid from impinging on the chimneys, thereby reducing entrainment and/or
foaming in the flash zone.
(7) Dimensions for tangential inlets nozzles are given in Figure 30. DP03Hf31

III-H 53 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
HINGED TRAYS
Background. In a number of services, tower internals are exposed to sudden, unexpected surges that can dislodge the
internals. If tray damage occurs frequently, hinged tray use may be justified. They are not normally installed in new designs
unless problems are expected. Surges can occur in two ways:
• Pressure Surges. They usually occur in the bottoms and sidestream strippers of atmospheric and vacuum pipestills when
stripping steam containing water (condensate) enters the tower and mixes with the hot oil. The water vaporizes almost
instantaneously, causing a sudden, but short lived pressure surge. These surges are strong enough to dislodge the
stripper trays (and usually some trays in the main column) and frequently require an emergency shutdown to correct.
• High liquid level excursions. The gas inlet (usually stripping steam) becomes submerged and one or more of the trays
flood. The turbulence created around the gas inlet and the resultant uneven gas flow up the column creates pressure
differences across the tray. This erratic “bumping" action can dislodge the trays.
To avoid these problems, the designer should ensure that only dry steam enters the stripper and that high level excursions are
minimized by proper instrumentation and a high liquid level steam cutout. Nevertheless, experience has shown that in spite of
these precautions, problems still arise. The best way to minimize the impact of these problems is to use hinged trays. These
are shown conceptually in Figure 32. The purpose of the hinged tray is to help relieve the pressure surges by designing
certain panels on the tray to open at a predetermined pressure drop. By providing a hinge, travel stop, and counter weight on
each hinged panel, the panel will return to its normal position after the surge has passed.
While experience has shown the hinged tray has worked successfully to minimize damage due to upsets, the forces generated
by condensate entering the tower have been large enough to even damage trays with hinged panels. Nevertheless, hinged
trays are still recommended for use in strippers, especially if damage has occurred in the past. The installation of hinged trays
does not eliminate the need for following good operating procedures, in particular, the proper draining of condensate in steam
lines prior to introduction of stripping steam into the tower and shutting off steam flow when the liquid level approaches the
steam inlet.
FIGURE 32
HINGED TRAY
Notes:
(1) The hinged tray design consists of
installing hinges on one or more tray
panels and removing the holddown
clips for those panels. The panels
are then able to lift if a sudden
increase in vapor load increases the
pressure drop across the tray
beyond the acceptable limit.
(2) The hinged tray section should be
App
14 i
counter weighted such that it stays

closed until a tray pressure drop of
rox.
nch
0.25 psi (1.7 kPa) is reached.

Hinge Plate Bracket Weights
es (
Ope
(3) The total “hinged” area provided

(Welded to Hinged Panel)
350
should be at least 25% of Ab.

ning
Hinge
(4) The hinged design should include a
mm
Weight CL
“travel stop” which prevents the
)
Support
+ hinged panel from flipping
completely over.
+ Truss (5) No efficiency debit is expected
Support Channel during normal tower operation.
+
(6) They can be used on all types of
Strike Plate Gusset trays (sieve, valve, bubble cap,
DP3HF32
Side View and Travel Stop etc.).
(Hinged Panel In Open Position) (7) It is strongly recommended that
hinged tray designs are reviewed by
a FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST.

III-H 54 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
TRANSITIONS
➧ Figures 33, 34 and 35 show recommended transitions between single pass and double pass trays and their respective design
criteria. The configurations shown in Figures 34 and 35 are complex and therefore the use of a chimney tray should be
considered to simplify the transition design. There are many different embodiments of these designs. While not every case
has been shown, the details outlined should be adaptable to any other configuration. The designer should check the
downcomer hydraulics and jet flood requirements for both trays in a transition section, since these trays have different free
areas, downcomer clearances, etc.
Transitions for three and four pass trays are not shown because of their infrequent use. Should questions arise, contact your
FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST to optimize the final design.
➧ FIGURE 33
TRAY TRANSITIONS: ONE-PASS TO TWO-PASS WITH LIQUID OR VAPOR-LIQUID FEED (1)
One Inlet Distributor Two Inlet Distributors
(2) (2)
Inlet Weir
Inlet Weir
3 in. (75 mm)
3 in. (75 mm)
High
High
(3) (3)
Notes:
(1) Use one inlet distributor if external liquid ≤ 60 Vol. % of total liquid to the tray; otherwise use two inlet
distributors.
(2) The distance between the distributor and the tray above should be minimum but not less than 8 in. (200 mm)
for either liquid or vapor-liquid feeds. Use an inlet weir as shown. For all other design features see INLETS
and DESIGN OF PERFORATED PIPE DISTRIBUTORS.
(3) The width between the inlet weir and the tower shell should be the same as the side downcomer outlet width
for the tray below.
DP3HF33

III-H 55 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
TRANSITIONS (Cont)
FIGURE 34
TRAY TRANSITIONS: TWO-PASS TO ONE-PASS (CENTER DOWNCOMER)
A
Liq C
Two-Pass Tray Flo uid
w (5)
B False
B Downcomer B
(1)
(2)
A Drawoff Box
Section A-A
B
C Liquid Flow
C Seal Plate
(3) False
One-Pass Tray
Downcomer
Not Shown for Clarity: Drawoff Box Deflector Plate, Left Side
of False Downcomer, and Outlet Weirs.
False Downcomer Bubble
(5) Area
One-Pass
6" (150mm) Tray
Inboard
(4) Downcomer Apron
(6) (3)
(7)
One-Pass (1) (2)

Tray C
(3)
Outlet Section B-B
Weir Section C-C Drawoff Box
Notes:
(1) Clearance under false downcomer should be 1 in. (25 mm) or based on head loss of 2 in. (50 mm) of hot liquid,
whichever is greater.
(2) Liquid drawoff box (if required) area should be based on liquid velocity of 0.6 ft/s (0.18 m/s) of drawn-off material.
Depth of liquid drawoff box is 6 in. (150 mm) or 1-1/2 times nozzle diameter, whichever is greater. Provide anti-
vortex baffles.
(3) Specify welded plate to seal bottom of downcomer from tray above.
(4) Because the one-pass transition tray has less than the normal free area, additional tray spacing is required to
avoid entrainment and premature flooding. If additional spacing is not sufficient, consider using a chimney tray at
the transition.
(5) Provide 2 in. (50 mm) clearance between top of false downcomer and tray above, to prevent gas from being
trapped.
(6) Deflector plate directs liquid toward center of inboard downcomer, so that it does not impinge on liquid entering
drawoff nozzle, D d. Angle of the deflector plate is approximately 30° from horizontal.
(7) Clearance under the section of the inboard downcomer that extends into the chordal area defined by the false
downcomer: The clearance height should be set to yield a pressure drop that is about 1/2 of the pressure drop
through clearance under the false downcomer.
DP03Hf34

III-H 56 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
TRANSITIONS (Cont)
FIGURE 35
TRAY TRANSITIONS: TWO-PASS TO ONE-PASS (SIDE DOWNCOMER)
Two-Pass Tray
(4) C
A
False
B B
Downcomer B
Flo
w
"Wing" Section of
(1)
False Downcomer
One-Pass Tray Flo
Section A-A w A
Liquid B
Flow
"Wing" Section of
False Downcomer C
Bubble Area
One-Pass
Tray
Section B-B
w
Flo
C
False Downcomer Outboard
Two-Pass Tray Chordal & "Wing" Sections Downcomer
Apron w
Flo
Outboard
Downcomer (3)
Apron (5)
One-Pass Tray (1)

False
Section C-C Downcomer
Notes:
* Liquid Drawoff nozzle(s) not shown for clarity.
(1) Clearance under false downcomer should be 1 in. (25 mm) or based on head loss of 2 in. (50 mm) of hot liquid,
whichever is greater.
(2) Liquid drawoff box (if required) area should be based on liquid velocity of 0.6 ft/s (0.18 m/s) of drawn-off material. Depth
of liquid drawoff box is 6 in. (150 mm) or 1-1/2 times nozzle diameter, whichever is greater. Provide anti-vortex baffles.
(3) Because the one-pass transition tray has less than the normal free area, additional tray spacing is required to avoid
entrainment and premature flooding. If additional spacing is not sufficient, consider using a chimney tray at the
transition.
(4) Provide 2 in. (50 mm) clearance between top of false downcomer and tray above, to prevent gas from being trapped.
(5) Clearance under the section of the outboard downcomer that extends into the area defined by the false downcomer:
The clearance height should be set to yield a pressure drop that is about 1/2 of the pressure drop through clearance
under the false downcomer.
DP3HF35

III-H 57 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
DEENTRAINMENT DEVICES
WIRE MESH ENTRAINMENT SCREENS (CWMS)

Background. Crinkled wire mesh screens (CWMS) are porous blankets of wire or plastic knitted mesh, which are used for
removing entrained liquid drops from a vapor stream. Typically, a 6 in. (150 mm) thick screen having a density of 5 lbs/ft3
(80 kg/m3) is used for most services. When vapor and entrained liquid drops pass through a CWMS, the vapor moves freely
through the mesh pad, but the drops, because of their greater inertia, cannot follow the gas stream and are collected on the
screen wires. The liquid droplets collected on the wires coalesce and run down to the bottom surface and drop off the screen.
If the liquid rate entrained to the CWMS is too high, however, CWMS flooding will occur. To prevent this, the CWMS should be
sized using the criteria given below under CWMS Sizing.
In some towers, entrainment of liquid can cause serious product contamination and degradation. To avoid this problem, a
crinkled wire mesh screen can be specified. These screens must be carefully designed. If the velocity through the screen is
too low, maximum coalescence will not occur. If the velocity is too high, coalesced liquid will be re-entrained from the
downstream surface of the screen.
Screen fouling may also be a problem, depending on temperature, type of screen, and feed stock quality. Each tower must be
considered individually, and past or similar experience relied upon. When questions arise, your FRACTIONATION
SPECIALIST should be consulted. IP 5-2-1 specifies the screen dimensions, but the designer must specify the materials of
construction. Location of pressure relief valves must be consistent with the requirements in Section XV-C.
CWMS Sizing. Typically, a 6 in. (150 mm) thick screen having a density of 5 lbs/ft3 (80 kg/m3) is used for most services.
When such a CWMS complies with the sizing criteria detailed below, the liquid separation efficiency is expected to be over
99.9%.
Design Superficial Vapor Velocity (based on tower cross section) ≤ 100% of Critical Velocity (Vc). The CWMS
should be sized for 100% of critical velocity. To do this, the cross-sectional area of the screen can be reduced by adding a
donut-shaped baffle below the screen, or by using a rectangular box, etc. However, for foaming systems, do not reduce
the screen cross-sectional area. Critical velocity is defined by Eq. (1) in Section V-A.
Design Superficial Vapor Velocity (based on tower cross section) ≥ 100% of Critical Velocity (Vc).
1. Calculate the maximum permissible percent of Vc, based on the tower cross-sectional area minus the area of the
support ring. The maximum permissible percent of Vc, is given by Eq. (4) in Section V-A.
2. If the actual percent of Vc at design conditions is equal to or less than the maximum permissible value, the CWMS
diameter should be the same as the tower diameter. If the actual percent of Vc is higher than the maximum
permissible value, the designer should consult the FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST. This is required to avoid CWMS
flooding problems.
CWMS designed using the criteria detailed above should operate satisfactorily at turndown conditions because the entrainment
rate decreases significantly with decreasing vapor velocity. For example, the entrainment rate for sieve trays is typically
proportional to the vapor velocity elevated to a power of 5 to 10. Therefore, at turndown conditions, the entrainment rate should
be quite low.
When entrainment removal efficiency must be maximized and the service is non-fouling, the use of two screens in series may
be justified. The CWMS should be composed of two layers, each 6 in. (150 mm) thick with 10 lb/ft3 (160 kg/m3) material on the
top and 5 lb/ft3 (80 kg/m3) material on the bottom.
CWMS Spacing Requirements. If a screen is required, the distance between the bottom of the screen and the top of the
devices listed below should be:
• For trays, locate the screen at least a tray spacing plus 6 in. (150 mm) above the tray.
• For spray nozzle headers, the screen can be located a minimum distance above the main header. Be sure, however, that
there is sufficient clearance for bolt flanges, etc., so the header can be removed for cleaning without dismantling the
screen. Normally, this distance should be at least 12 in. (300 mm).
• For packed towers, the screen should be located at least 24 in. (600 mm) above the top of any liquid distributor (i.e., above
any parting boxes, predistributor pipes, etc.)
• For towers containing a vapor overhead drawoff nozzle, the distance between the screen and the nozzle should be based
on criteria given in Section V-A under DESIGN PROCEDURES, DISTANCE FROM TOP OF CWMS TO GAS OUTLET
NOZZLE.

III-H 58 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
DEENTRAINMENT DEVICES (Cont)

Pressure Drop. The total pressure drop through a CWMS is the sum of the pressure drop of the vapor passing through a dry
screen (hds) and the additional resistance to vapor flow caused by liquid held up on the screen (hsl). The equations below and
Figures 37 and 38 are used to calculate pressure drop through a York Type 931 Demister which has a density of 5 lbs/ft3 (80
kg/m3). They are based on information in Bulletin 631 of the Otto H. York Co., Inc., also published in Chemical Engineering
Progress, Vol. 59, No. 6, pp. 45 - 49 (1963).
PRESSURE DROP EQUATIONS CUSTOMARY UNITS METRIC UNITS
Dry Screen Pressure Drop

hds (in. H2O) = 0.0236 f ρ V t VCWMS2 ( )
hds mm H2O = 0.0159 f ρ V t VCWMS
2
Total Screen Pressure Drop

( )
hCWMS in. H2O = hds + hsl ( )
hCWMS mm H2O = hds + hsl
hCWMS (in. hot liq.) = 62.4 (hds + hsl ) ρL hCWMS (mm hot liq.) = 1000 (hds + hsl )/ρL
where:
hds, Pressure drop through dry screen inches water mm water
hsl, Pressure drop due to liquid holdup inches water (from Figure 38) mm water (from Figure 38)
hCWMS, Total pressure drop through inches of H2O or hot liquid mm of H2O or hot liquid
screen
f, Friction factor dimensionless (from Figure 37) dimensionless (from Figure 37)
t, Thickness of screen inches (normally 6 in.) mm (normally 150 mm)
VCWMS, Vapor velocity through screen ft/s (based on screen, not vessel cross- m/s (based on screen, not vessel cross-
sectional area) sectional area)
FIGURE 36
VANE-TYPE MIST ELIMINATOR
VANE-TYPE MIST ELIMINATOR (CHEVRONS)
De-entrained Gases
Vane-type mist eliminators are zig-zag baffles which are used for
removing entrained liquid drops from a vapor stream. Spacing between
the baffles, turning angles and number of passes are designed to satisfy
specific removal requirements (see Figure 36). When the vapor and
the entrained liquid drops pass through a vane-type mist eliminator, the
vapor moves freely through the baffles, but the drops, because of their
greater inertia, impinge upon the walls of the baffles, The liquid
collected on the baffles runs down to the bottom surface and drops off
the mist eliminator. Compared to CWMS, vane-type mist eliminators
generally are more resistant to fouling due to their larger physical
openings, but they are more costly and less efficient in removing
entrainment. Design and sizing of vane-type mist eliminators are
carried out by the vendor. Vendors include Koch-Glitsch Otto-York,
ACS Industires, Inc. and Peerless Manufacturing Co. Consult your
FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST before specifying these devices.
Mist Laden Gases
(Vertical Flow)
DP3HF36

III-H 59 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
FIGURE 37
CWMS PRESSURE DROP - FRICTION FACTOR
Customary Units
1
0.8 a
V ρ 
f = 0.86  CWMS v 
 µ v 
0.6
V ρ 
where : a = − 0.5066 + 0.03358 ln  CWMS v 
0.5 µ
 v 
0.4
f
0.3
0.2
0.1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 20 30 40 50 60 80 100
V CWMS ρ v
µv
Metric Units
1
a
0.8 V ρ 
f = 0.86  CWMS v 
 µv 
0.6 V ρ 
where : a = − 0.5598 + 0.03358 ln  CWMS v 
0.5  µv 
0.4
f
0.3
0.1
5 6 8 10 20 30 40 50 60 80 100 200 300 400 500
VCWMS ρ v
DP3HF37 µv

III-H 60 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
FIGURE 38
CWMS PRESSURE DROP - LIQUID HOLDUP
Customary Units
0.7
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
hsl
0.1
h sl = 0.01413 e a
0.08
where : a = 8.505 VCWMS [ρ v / (ρL − ρ v )] 0.5
0.06
0.20 0.25 0.30 0.35 0.40 0.45 0.50
VCWMS [ ρv / (ρL − ρ v )] 0.5
Metric Units
20
10
6
hsl
h sl = 0.36 e a
3
where : a = 27.9 VCWMS [ ρ v / (ρL − ρ v )] 0.5
2
0.06 0.07 0.08 0.09 0.10 0.11 0.12 0.13 0.14
VCWMS [ ρ v / (ρL − ρ v )] 0.5 DP03Hf38

III-H 61 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS

NARROW RECTANGULAR NOTCH EQ. 1 CUSTOMARY UNITS METRIC UNITS
QL = 2.68 b h n1.5 Q L = 5.20 x 10 −5 b h n1.5
h n = 0.52 (QL / b ) 2 / 3 h n = 720 (QL / b ) 2 / 3
hn
DP3Heq01
b
TRIANGULAR NOTCH Eq. 2

h n2.5 h n2.5
QL = 2.24 QL = 4.35 x 10 −5
tan ψ tan ψ
h n = 0.72 (QL tan ψ ) 0.4 h n = 55 (QL tan ψ ) 0.4
hn
DP3Heq02
CREST OVER A WEIR OR SEAL DAM Eq. 3

(as clear liquid, not froth)
Q L = 2.83 lo [how or hsd ] 1.5 Q L = 5.5 x 10 −5 lo [how or hsd ] 1.5
[ho w or ]
hsd = 0.5 (QL / lo ) 2 / 3 [ho w or ]
hsd = 692 (QL / lo ) 2 / 3
how or hsd
DP03Heq03
HEAD LOSS UNDER A Eq. 4

DOWNCOMER OR BAFFLE
Straight Edge
[
hud = 0.06 QL / Np lud c ( )]2 [ ( )]2
hud = 1.60 x 108 QL / Npludc
= 0.02 [QL / (Npludc ) ] 2 hud = 0.53 x 108 [QL / (Npludc ) ] 2

Shaped Lip (2” radius)
hud
UNITS FOR EQ. IN THIS

QL gpm dm3/s
PAGE
b, c, lud, lo, hn, how, hsd inches mm

III-H 62 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS (Cont)
ORIFICE: LIQUID FLOW, Eq. 5 CUSTOMARY UNITS METRIC UNITS

MULTIPLE ORIFICES
Liquid
QL = 1040 Co A o ho0.5 QL = 140 Co A o ho0.5
Level
ho
d0, A0
Liquid Flow
DP3Heq05
(
ho (in. hot liq.) = 0.925 x 10 −6 QL 2 / Co2 A o 2 ) (
ho (mm hot liq.) = 51x10 −6 QL 2 / Co 2 A o2 )
For flow into submerged tubes consult a For flow into submerged tubes consult a
FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST
ORIFICE: LIQUID FLOW, Eq. 6

SINGLE ORIFICE
QL = 5.67 Codo2 ho0.5 QL = 1.10 x 10 −4 Co do 2 ho0.5
(
ho (in. hot liq.) = 0.031 QL 2 / Co 2do 4 ) (
ho (mm hot liq.) = 83 x 106 QL 2 / Co2do 4 )
ORIFICE: VAPOR FLOW Eq. 7
Vo2 ρv Vo 2 ρv
ho (in. hot liq.) = 0.186 2
ho (mm hot liq.) = 50.9
Co ρL Co 2 ρL
ho (in. H2 0 ) = 3 x 10 −3 v o2 ρv / Co2 ho (mm H2 0 ) = 50.9 x 10 −3 v o 2 ρv / Co2
ho (psi) = 0.108 x 10 −3 v o 2 ρv / Co2 ho (kPa ) = 0.5 x 10 −3 v o 2 ρv / Co 2
ORIFICE: MIXED PHASE Eq. 8

FLOW
Substitute ρm for ρv in Eq. 7 Substitute ρm for ρv in Eq. 7

ρL ρL
ρm = ρm =
y/ϕ+1 y/ϕ+1
ϕ = ρv / (ρL − ρv ) ϕ = ρv / (ρL − ρv )
y is the weight fraction vapor y is the weight fraction vapor
UNITS FOR EQ. IN THIS PAGE

Head Over Orifice ho in. hot liq., unless specified mm hot liq., unless specified
Liquid Rate QL gpm dm3/s
Nozzles, Perforated Pipe Distributors Co 0.6 0.6
Perforated Plate Co 0.7 0.7
Orifice Area Ao ft2 m2
Orifice Diameter do inches mm
Note: Perforated plate orifice coefficient for rough estimates only. For accurate head calculations for liquid distributors contact a

III-H 63 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
DRAWOFF NOZZLE SIZE Eq. 9 CUSTOMARY UNITS METRIC UNITS

0.5
Dd = 0.369 QL Dd = 37.5 QL0.5
Eq. 9 sizes the nozzle diameter for a Eq. 9 sizes the nozzle diameter for a
liquid velocity of 3 ft/s. liquid velocity of 0.9 m/s.
Dd
DP3Heq09
Units: Nozzle Inside Diameter Dd inches mm

Liquid Rate QL gpm dm3/s
LIQUID HEIGHT AT A NOZZLE Eq. 10
1.3
Partially Submerged
1.2 Horizontal Nozzle
1.1
Dd
1.0 h
For Higher Values:
0.9 h C2vn 2
vn = 0.5 +
0.8 Dd Dd0.5
C2 = 0.7194 Customary
0.7 = 11.90 Metric
Dd0.5
C2vn
Fully Submerged
0.6 Horizontal Nozzle
0.5
h Dd
0.4
0.3 vn
0.2
0.1
0.0
0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 2.0
h / Dd
Notes:
vn is calculated using the total nozzle cross sectional area, even when the nozzle is partially submerged. Eq. 10 provides the
static head required to overcome nozzle entrance head-losses (uses a flow coefficient of 0.6). It does not take into account
any friction or other head requirements downstream the nozzle, that is, it assumes that the liquid flows into an infinite
chamber without resistance. Calculation of h > Dd does not ensure that the nozzle will be fully submerged (e.g., the
downstream pipe may have a vertical pipe drop to another vessel and no flow control device). Similarly, calculation of h < Dd
does not ensure that the nozzle will be partially submerged (e.g., the downstream pipe may have a flow control device). Eq.
10 predicts static head requirements that are somewhat conservative to provide sufficient design contingency.
For revamps, if existing height cannot satisfy the head required by Eq. 10, contact a FRACTIONATION SPECIALIST.
DP3Heq10

III-H 64 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
CHIMNEY TRAY PRESSURE DROP Eq. 11 CUSTOMARY UNITS METRIC UNITS
∆P (in. liq.) = 0.28 Vo 2 (ρv / ρL ) ∆P(mm liq.) = 76 Vo 2 (ρv / ρL )

∆P (in. H2O ) = 4.5 x 10 −3 Vo 2 ρv ∆P(mm H2O ) = 0.076 Vo 2 ρv
∆P (psi) = 0.16 x 10 −3 Vo 2 ρv ∆P(kPa ) = 0.75 x 10 −3 Vo2 ρv
Units: Vapor Velocity in Chimney Vo ft/s m/s
HYDRAULIC GRADIENT IN A TROUGH Eq. 12

(MANNING EQUATION)
Liquid Surface hgr
Horizontal } (
hgr = lt C3 v t / R2 / 3 ) 2
(
hgr = lt C3 v t / R2 / 3 ) 2
Plane
R = bh / (b + 2h) R = bh / (b + 2h)
lt
C4 QL C4 QL
vt = vt =
h  hgr   hgr 
b  h + 
 b  h + 

 2   2 
b DP3Heq12
UNITS, CONSTANTS
Trough Width b inches mm
Constant C3 0.0459 1.3
Constant C4 0.321 1000
Liquid Height in Trough h inches mm
Liquid Gradient at Upstream End hgr inches mm
Trough Length lt inches mm
Hydraulic Radius R inches mm
Liquid Flow Rate QL gpm dm3/s
Liquid Velocity in Trough vt ft/s m/s

III-H 65 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
➧ Self-Venting Flow Eq. 13 (see below)
There are essentially three flow regimes that can exist in a free hydraulic downward flow condition.
1. Self-Venting Flow
2. Transition
3. Liquid Filled
DP03Heq13
The initial regime, self-venting flow, is essentially a weir flow in which the liquid flows over the perimeter of the nozzle as a liquid
film. Any entrapped vapor is able to escape through the core of the nozzle and the vapor will not be sucked down. This flow
regime has been shown experimentally to occur at low liquid superficial velocities. It is important to design gravity lines and
gravity flow liquid distributors for self-venting flow.
Pipes smaller than the self-venting diameter can experience flow disturbances or surges when vapor is sucked down. Surging
flow can be avoided by designing the piping and outlet nozzles for self-venting flow.
Experimental data used to develop the equation below were based on small pipes less than 10 in. (250 mm). Experience with
larger pipes, larger than 24 in. (600 mm) suggest this correlation is somewhat conservative when extrapolating from its original
database.
The pipe diameter should be increased in proportion to the foam factor for foaming services. Also for flashing services, the
criteria should be used with caution especially when the liquid contains a significant amount of highly volatile components. (The
foam factor is defined as 90% / [recommended % jet flood]). The recommended % jet flood should be obtained from Section
III-B, Table 2, Design Criteria for Specific Towers. Minimum foam factor is 1.
Customary Units Metric Units

0.2 0.2
 ρL   ρL 
Dd = 0.918 QL0.39  
 Dd = 68.5 QL0.39  

 ρL − ρv   ρL − ρv 

III-H 66 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
NOMENCLATURE
Ab = Tray bubble area, ft2 (m2).
Ac = Chimney cross-sectional area, ft2 (m2).
As = Tower cross-sectional area, ft2 (m2).
Aw = Tray waste area, ft2 (m2).
b = Width of rectangular notch or trough, in. (mm). See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 1, Eq. 12.
c = Downcomer clearance, in. (mm).
Co = Orifice coefficient, dimensionless. See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 5, Eq. 6, Eq. 7.
C2 = Constant used in horizontal drawoff nozzle calculations. See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 10.
C3 = Constant used in FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 12.
C4 = Constant used in FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 12.
Cs = Capacity factor, defined as vapor load (VL) divided by the appropriate cross-sectional area depending on use,
ft/s (m/s).
do = Hole or orifice diameter, in. (mm). See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 5, Eq. 6.
Dd = Inside diameter of nozzle, in. (mm).
Dr = Outside diameter of inlet or return nozzle or return piping, in. (mm).
DR = Annular ring inside diameter, ft (mm). See Figure 30.
DN = Inside diameter of tangential inlet nozzle, in. (mm). See Figure 30.
Ds = Strainer diameter, in. (mm). See Figure 17A.
Dt = Tower inside diameter, ft (mm).
f = Friction factor for CWMS.
fd = Allowable downcomer filling, expressed as a fraction.
fVL = Liquid volume fraction. See REBOILER DRAWOFF DESIGN PROCEDURE, Eq. (A).
g = Gravitational constant, 32.2 ft/s2 (9.8 m/s2).
H = Tray spacing, in. (mm).
h = Liquid head above bottom of horizontal drawoff nozzle. See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS.
hCWMS = Total vapor pressure drop through the CWMS, in. (mm) of hot liquid, unless otherwise indicated.
hd = Downcomer filling, in. (mm) of hot liquid. Calculate per procedure given in the pertinent device's
subsection.
hd1 = Liquid height in the downcomer above the top of the overflow weir or seal dam, in. (mm) of hot liquid.
See Figures 16 - 19.
hd 2 = Liquid height in the downcomer upstream of an overflow weir or seal dam, in. (mm) of hot liquid. See Figures
16 - 19. Reduces to hd if no overflow weir or seal dam is present.
hds = Vapor pressure drop through the dry CWMS, in. (mm) of water.
hed = Effective dry tray pressure drop, in. (mm) of hot liquid.
hgr = Liquid gradient at upstream end of trough, in. (mm) of hot liquid. See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 12.
hn = Liquid height in notch, in. (mm) of hot liquid. See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 1, Eq. 2.
ho = Head loss across an orifice, in. (mm). See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 5 - Eq. 8.
how = Liquid head over a weir, in. (mm) of hot liquid. See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 3.
hα = Impact height above the distributor centerline, in. (mm). See Figure 5D.
hβ = Impact height below the distributor centerlline, in. (mm). See Figure 5D.
Hs = Strainer height, in. (mm). See Figure 17A.
hsd = Head over seal dam, in. (mm) of hot liquid. See Figure 16 - 19, Note 4. Calculate from FLUID FLOW
EQUATIONS, Eq. 3.

III-H 67 of 67
TOWER INTERNALS
NOMENCLATURE (Cont)
hsl = Pressure drop due to liquid holdup within the CWMS, in. (mm) of water.
ht = Total tray pressure drop, in. (mm) to hot liquid. See notes for Figures 16 - 19.
hud = Head loss under downcomer, in. (mm) of hot liquid. See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 4.
hw = Height of overflow weir, in. (mm). See Figures 16 - 19, Notes 3 and 6.
lo = Seal dam or overflow weir length, in. (mm). See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 3.
lt = Trough length, in. (mm). See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 12.
lud = Downcomer length, in. (mm). See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 4.
L = Baffle height in Figure 4B, in. (mm).
QL = Liquid volumetric flow rate, gpm (dm3/s) at conditions. Used in various FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS.
qv = Volumetric vapor rate at conditions, ft3/s (m3/s).
R = Hydraulic radius, in. (mm). See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 12.
t = Thickness of CWMS, in. (mm).
TS = Tray Spacing, in. (mm)
VCWMS = Vapor velocity through the CWMS, ft/s (m/s).
[ ]
0.5
VL = Design vapor load = qv (ρV / (ρL - ρV )
vn = Drawoff or inlet nozzle velocity, ft/s (m/s). See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 10.
Vo = Hole, chimney, or orifice velocity, ft/s (m/s). See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 7, Eq. 11.
vt = Liquid velocity, ft/s (m/s). See FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 12.
y = Weight fraction vaporized. See Eq. (A) and (B) in the text under REBOILER DRAWOFF DESIGN
PROCEDURE and FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 8.
∆P = Pressure drop, psi (kPa) or in. (mm) of hot liquid, according to context.
α = Slot angle above distributor centerline, degrees.
β = Slot angle below distributor centerline, degrees.
ϕ = ρV/(ρL - ρV). See REBOILER DRAWOFF DESIGN PROCEDURE in text and FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 8.
ψ = Angle specified for use in FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS, Eq. 2.
µv = Vapor viscosity at conditions, cP (mPas). See CWMS.
ρL = Liquid density at conditions, lb/ft3 (kg/m3).
ρV = Vapor density at conditions, lb/ft3(kg/m3).
ρw = Density of water, 62.4 lb/ft3 (1000 kg/m3).

Tower Internals: Design Practices

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Tower Internals: Design Practices

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

ExxonMobil Proprietary

FRACTIONATING TOWERS Section Page

TRAY SUPPORTS .......................................................................................................................................... 4

DRAWOFFS (Excluding Reboiler Drawoffs).............................................................................................. 18

REBOILER DRAWOFFS AND RETURNS.................................................................................................... 27

MID REBOILER DRAWOFFS ....................................................................................................................... 37

INTERCOOLER DRAWOFFS ....................................................................................................................... 39

CHIMNEY TRAYS ......................................................................................................................................... 43

FLASH ZONES AND TANGENTIAL (ANNULAR RING) INLETS ................................................................ 51

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

FLUID FLOW EQUATIONS .......................................................................................................................... 61

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

TRAY SUPPORTS (Cont)

TOWER DIAMETER APPROXIMATE HEIGHT

➧ LIQUID INLETS TO TOP TRAY

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

Baffle Perforated Pipe Baffles

(3) False Min. (3)

Notes for Figure 2:

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

LIQUID INLETS BETWEEN TRAYS

➧ VAPOR INLETS (INCLUDING KETTLE REBOILER RETURNS)

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

Inlet Baffle 0.5 Dr

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

VAPOR-LIQUID INLETS (EXCLUDING REBOILER RETURNS)

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

DESIGN OF PERFORATED PIPE DISTRIBUTORS

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

➧ DESIGN / RATING OF FLASHBOX INLETS

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

Distributor Pipe Downcomer

1/4" (6mm) Vent Holes Supports

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

Tray Above Feed

Dr / 6 or 3" 3"(75 mm)

1/4" (6 mm) Vent Hole

3/8" (9 mm) Drain Hole

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

A. Typical Center and Off-Center Flashboxes

Flashbox Top Width (Note 1) Flashbox Top Width (Note 1 )

2" (50 mm) Lips 2" (50 mm) Lips

B. Flashbox without Downpipe 2" (50 mm) min

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

(2) (2) (1)

(3) (2) (2) (3)

(1) (1) (1) (1)

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

1/2" (13 mm) Drain

Opening Angle Distributor

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

DRAWOFFS (EXCLUDING REBOILER DRAWOFFS)

LIQUID DRAWOFF OPTIONS

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA

DRAWOFFS (EXCLUDING REBOILER DRAWOFFS) (Cont)

➧ SIZING THE DRAWOFF BOX AND NOZZLES

8 ft (2400mm) < Dt < 16 ft (4800mm) Dt ≥ 16 ft (4800mm)

Sump sized for

8 ft (2400mm) < Dt < 16 ft (4800mm) Dt ≥ 16 ft (4800mm)

ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company – Fairfax, VA