Mass Transfer Column Dividing Wall Liquid Flow Divider
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mass transfer columns with dividing walls face challenges in controlling and adjusting the liquid split between the feed and draw-off sides, limiting operational flexibility and control in distillation processes.
Innovation Solution
A moveable liquid flow divider is positioned above the dividing wall to adjust the volumetric split of liquid between the sub-regions, allowing for increased operational flexibility by changing configurations to deliver varying liquid flows to the sub-regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed liquid flow divider is used in a mass transfer column with a dividing wall, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the operational flexibility and control ability for liquid split adjustment is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid flow divider is designed with moveable components that can be adjusted between different positions to change the volumetric split of liquid between sub-regions. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to adapt to varying operational requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Ease of operation
If a moveable liquid flow divider is implemented to adjust liquid split, then operational flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid flow divider is segmented into multiple moveable portions that can be independently adjusted. This segmentation allows for precise control of liquid distribution to different sub-regions while keeping each individual moveable component relatively simple in design.
Data Source
AI summary
A mass transfer column comprising: a shell (12); an open internal region (14) defined by said shell; and a mass transfer assembly (16) positioned in the open internal region (14), the mass transfer assembly (16) comprising: a dividing wall (18) forming first and second sub-regions; one or more zones of mass transfer structures positioned in the first and second sub-regions (22 and 24); and a liquid flow divider (48) positioned above the dividing wall (18) for delivering a volumetric split of liquid to the first and second sub-regions. The liquid flow divider (48) may comprise a moveable weir (68) or a valve (180) in order the change the ratio of liquid flow between the two sub-regions.