• Selection of tray type The comparative performances of three

common types of trays are summarized in Table 7.1. The capacity,

efficiency, pressure drop and entrainment of sieve and valve trays
are almost same. Bubble cap trays have lower capacity and
efficiency and but higher pressure drop and entrainment
compared to valve and sieve trays. The turndown ratio comes in
the order of: bubble cap>valve>sieve. However, valve trays have
the best turndown ratio in case of refinery applications. Sieve trays
are the least expensive and suitable for almost all applications.
Valve trays can be considered where higher turndown ratio is
needed. Bubble cap trays should be used at very low liquid flow
rate which is not achievable using sieve trays.