Liquid double distribution device of use in particular in an apparatus in which a liquid phase flows under gravity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing double liquid distribution systems with overflow in vertical apparatuses, such as fractionating columns and heat exchangers, experience non-uniform liquid distribution and 'out-of-specification' quality over a significant range of operating flow rates, particularly during movements, leading to inefficiencies and non-uniformities.
Innovation Solution
A double liquid distribution device with a communication valve that connects two longitudinal liquid downflow ducts, allowing controlled liquid transfer between them based on measured liquid levels, ensuring uniform distribution by maintaining adequate hydraulic loads and minimizing static load differences across the distribution manifolds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a conventional single liquid distributor is used in vertical apparatuses on floating supports, then the structure is simple, but non-uniform liquid distribution occurs during movements
Solution Approach 1:
The distributor is divided into two independent longitudinal ducts (first duct and second duct) that can operate separately or in combination. Each duct serves as an independent distribution channel, allowing the system to segment the liquid flow and maintain uniform distribution across different operating conditions and movement scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication valve between the two ducts is designed to open or close automatically based on real-time liquid level detection. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to adapt to movement-induced variations in liquid distribution, maintaining uniformity by switching between single-duct and dual-duct operation modes as needed.
2Productivity
If double liquid distribution system with overflow is used, then liquid distribution capacity is increased, but non-uniformities occur over significant range of operating flow rates
Solution Approach 1:
A liquid level detection device continuously monitors the liquid levels in both ducts and provides feedback to the communication valve control system. This feedback mechanism enables automatic adjustment of the valve state to maintain equal liquid levels in both ducts, ensuring uniform distribution quality across the entire operating flow rate range without the non-uniformities associated with overflow systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication valve acts as an intermediary element between the two ducts, mediating liquid flow to equalize levels. Unlike direct overflow connections that cause non-uniformities, the controlled valve provides regulated communication between ducts, maintaining hydraulic balance and distribution uniformity throughout the operating range.
3Ease of operation
If liquid level difference between ducts is allowed, then system operation is simpler, but hydraulic load differences cause non-uniform distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains equal liquid levels (equipotential condition) in both ducts through the communication valve controlled by liquid level detection. This equalization eliminates hydraulic head differences between ducts, ensuring that both ducts operate under identical hydraulic loads and produce uniform liquid distribution across the apparatus, while the automatic control maintains this balance without complex manual intervention.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution ensures uniform liquid distribution across the entire range of operating flow rates, preventing non-uniformities and maintaining high distribution quality even during movements, thereby enhancing the operational efficiency of vertical apparatuses.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid phase moving downwards under the effect of the acceleration due to gravity
Implementation Method 2
Under the effect of its surface tension, the liquid spreads around the solid so as wet it, thereby forming a thin film
Data Source
AI summary
A double liquid distribution device (1) suitable for use in in a fractionating or wash column (10) including a high collector tray (2) connected to a manifold support (7) via at least two longitudinal liquid downflow ducts (5, 6), the manifold support (7) supporting at least two series of transverse tubular manifolds (8, 8a 8b) and serving to feed liquid respectively to the first series of manifolds (8a) via a first longitudinal duct (5) and to the second series of manifolds (8b) via a second longitudinal duct (6), each manifold (8, 8a 8b) including distribution orifices (8c) in its under face that are suitable for distributing the liquid onto the top face of the packing bed (9). The two longitudinal liquid downflow ducts (5, 6) are connected together in a low portion (5b, 6b) by a communication device (11) fitted with a valve (12) having controlled opening that is suitable for allowing the liquid to be transferred between the two longitudinal ducts in a controlled manner.