Packing elements

Abstract

A packing element, configured to reducing the pressure gradient of a fluidised bed process, having a geometry defined by three axes; including first axis of between 20-45mm, second axis of between 6-13.5mm and ratio between longest and shortest dimensional axes being less than or equal to 0.3. The packing element has density between 80-150kg / m3 and an off-set centre of gravity / symmetry. The first axis may be between 25-38mm and the dimension of the third axis may be between the first and second axes. The packing element may have an asymmetrical ovoidal or prolate spheroidal geometry and have density between 80-120kg / m3. The fluidised bed process may be operated at a pressure gradient of less than or equal to 1300Pa / m, comprise a column superficial gas velocity between 1.5-3.5m / s, preferably between 2.0-3.0m / s and a column liquid to gas flow ratio 2-6L / m3. The fluidised bed process may be suitable for use in liquid-side controlled processes. [Figure 3A]