Cross Flow Tray Support System for Mass Transfer Columns
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for supporting cross flow trays in larger diameter columns and those experiencing vibratory forces are complex and costly, adding unnecessary complexity and expense to the design and installation.
Innovation Solution
A tray assembly with a support system comprising horizontally-spaced braces, a support beam, and elongated strut members that connect the upper and lower cross flow trays, eliminating the need for a separate inlet panel as a structural beam and simplifying the design and installation by providing direct support between the trays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional support structures (struts, hangers, lattice trusses) are added to support the tray deck in larger diameter columns, then the tray deck stability is improved, but the device complexity and fabrication cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support function is merged with the downcomer structure. The downcomer walls are extended vertically to provide direct support to the tray deck, eliminating the need for separate support structures. This integration of support and liquid distribution functions reduces overall system complexity while maintaining tray stability in larger diameter columns
Solution Approach 2:
The downcomer structure serves multiple functions: it directs the descending liquid stream, provides structural support to the tray deck, and acts as a beam to carry load. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated support structures, reducing both complexity and cost
2Stability of the object's composition
If hangers are used to connect the tray deck to downcomer walls, then sagging and uplift are reduced, but the design complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support function is merged with the downcomer structure. The downcomer walls are extended vertically to provide direct support to the tray deck, eliminating the need for separate support structures. This integration of support and liquid distribution functions reduces overall system complexity while maintaining tray stability in larger diameter columns
Solution Approach 2:
The separate hanger components are extracted from the system and replaced by the integrated downcomer structure. The downcomer walls themselves provide the support function that would otherwise require separate hanger components, simplifying both manufacture and installation
3Strength
If the inlet panel is formed as a structural beam with fasteners, then tray deck support is improved, but the design and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support function is merged with the downcomer structure. The downcomer walls are extended vertically to provide direct support to the tray deck, eliminating the need for separate support structures. This integration of support and liquid distribution functions reduces overall system complexity while maintaining tray stability in larger diameter columns
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Cross flow trays are provided with a support system. The support system interconnects the upper cross flow tray to a downcomer of the lower cross flow tray to provide support for the upper tray. In some aspects, the support system may also interconnect the downcomer of the lower cross flow tray to an upper tray of an underlying pair, providing additional support for the assembly. Such tray assemblies may facilitate easier installation without impeding the performance of the column.