The Metal Trough Liquid Distributor is a primary column internal designed to evenly distribute incoming liquid across the full cross‑section of a packed bed. It consists of a network of parallel troughs suspended above the packing or catalyst bed. Liquid enters via a main feed pipe, fills the troughs, then overflows through precisely machined V‑notches or circular perforations along the trough walls. The droplets or streams fall uniformly onto the packing surface, ensuring that every area of the bed receives an equal liquid load. This is critical for achieving high mass transfer efficiency, as maldistribution can reduce column performance by 30% or more. Constructed from stainless steel or specialty alloys, metal trough distributors are robust, reliable, and suitable for a wide range of clean and moderately fouling services.
Product Highlights
| Material | Max Operating Temp (°C) | Corrosion Resistance | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| SS304 | ≤450 | Good general chemical resistance | Hydrocarbon distillation, general chemical |
| SS316L | ≤450 | Excellent chloride/acid resistance | Sour water, amine units, corrosive chemicals |
| SS321 | ≤550 | Good high‑temperature strength | Thermal oil fractionation, high‑temp services |
| Carbon Steel | ≤350 | Low cost, non‑corrosive service | Cryogenic, light hydrocarbon fractionation |