Study on Hydrodynamic Performance of Structured Packings for Gas-Liquid Flow: Effects of Geometry Parameters

Abstract

Structured packings are widely used in distillation and absorption columns for their favourable combination of low pressure drop, high separation efficiency, and processing capacity. The hydrodynamic performance of structured packings is strongly influenced by their geometric parameters, including corrugation angle, channel dimensions, and surface texture. This study systematically investigates the effects of geometry parameters on the hydrodynamic performance of structured packings for gas-liquid flow.

Experimental measurements and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were conducted to characterise pressure drop, liquid holdup, and flooding capacity across a range of packing geometries. The study systematically varies key geometric parameters and quantifies their individual and combined effects on hydrodynamic performance metrics. The results reveal the relative importance of different geometric features on pressure drop and liquid distribution, providing guidance for the design and selection of structured packings with optimised hydrodynamic performance. The findings are particularly relevant for the design of novel 3D-printed structured packings where geometric freedom allows exploration of geometries not accessible through conventional manufacturing.

@article{sun2021study,
  title         = {Study on Hydrodynamic Performance of Structured Packings for Gas-Liquid Flow:
                  Effects of Geometry Parameters},
  author        = {Sun, Biao and Bhatelia, Tejas and Utikar, Ranjeet P and Evans, Geoffrey M
                  and Pareek, Vishnu K},
  year          = 2021,
  journal       = {Chemical Engineering Research and Design},
  publisher     = {Elsevier},
  volume        = 167,
  pages         = {318--326},
  doi           = {10.1016/j.cherd.2021.01.003}
}