A novel redistributor concept for packed columns

A new concept for redistribution of fluids in packed columns is described and mass transfer data on two versions of the new redistributor presented. The influence of the redistributor on mass transfer was obtained from an experimental study of deoxygenation of water in a 400 mm diameter column packed with No 1 Super Interlox saddles. Substantial improvements in mass transfer, over 90% in some conditions, were achieved both for a vertical column and with the column tilted by up to 8 from vertical. Aspects of the geometry of the redistributor and operating conditions needing further study are discussed.