Liquid Distribution Trough with Baffle for Uniform Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid distributors in sulphuric acid and carbon capture processes face challenges in achieving uniform liquid distribution, particularly at higher velocities, leading to sedimentation and increased cleaning frequencies, and require multiple feed conduits which are costly and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A two-section trough-type liquid distributor with a single inlet and energy dissipation systems, including baffles and deflectors, to maintain uniform flow and suspend solids, reducing the need for multiple feed conduits and enhancing cleaning efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple feed conduits are used to distribute liquid, then liquid distribution uniformity is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The trough is divided into multiple sections with individual feed conduits for each section, allowing independent flow control and uniform distribution without requiring a complex network of multiple feed conduits across the entire trough
Solution Approach 2:
Each trough section has its own feed conduit configuration optimized for local flow conditions, enabling uniform liquid distribution tailored to specific regional requirements within the overall system
2Productivity
If liquid velocity is increased to reduce sedimentation, then cleaning frequency is reduced, but liquid distribution uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the trough into sections with individual feed conduits creates multiple low-velocity injection points, maintaining uniform distribution while preventing sedimentation through distributed flow rather than high velocity
Solution Approach 2:
The partition walls between trough sections act as intermediaries that distribute liquid flow gradually, maintaining uniform velocity profiles and preventing both sedimentation and distribution non-uniformity
3Device complexity
If a single feed conduit is used to simplify the system, then device complexity is reduced, but liquid distribution uniformity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a single feed conduit that is segmented into multiple feed points along its length, each supplying a separate trough section, thereby maintaining simplicity while achieving uniform distribution through distributed flow injection
Solution Approach 2:
The feed conduit is arranged in a configuration that distributes liquid in multiple directions and planes to different trough sections, transforming a single-point feed into multi-dimensional distributed flow for uniform distribution
Data Source
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AI summary
A liquid distribution trough contained within a tower for the purpose of mass or thermal exchange between at least a first liquid and a second fluid; the trough having an upper section and a lower section; the lower section for receiving the first liquid; a horizontal dividing member separating the upper section from the lower section and having at least one dividing member portion defining an aperture to allow for passage of the liquid fluid from the lower section to the upper section; a feed conduit means in communication with the lower section to provide feed first liquid flow to the lower section; the lower section having at least one inlet portion defining a liquid inlet in communication with the feed conduit means; and a first baffle adjacent the inlet portion operably impacted by the first liquid flow and to hinder preferential flow along the walls of the trough and the dividing member. The trough and tower are of particular value in a sulphuric acid plant and a carbon dioxide capture plant.