Liquid distribution of MEA in random and structured packing in a square column

AbstractLiquid flow distribution in a square column was analyzed to evaluate the contact between liquid and gas phases in an absorption column, and to compare the results from a conventional cylindrical column. The square column was 12 inches wide by 12 inches deep by 40 inches tall. It was constructed with glass walls so that the flow pattern could be observed. The liquid distributor was designed with a pattern that would deliver the flow evenly in a set pattern over the packing with a drip per area ratio of 321/ft2 (2.23/inch2).Experiments were conducted using both random and structured packing. A total packing volume of 3 ft3 was used in each study. One-inch Pall Rings were used for the random packing study. For the structured packing tests, we designed and developed an innovative packing for the ITC pilot plant. Three packing bricks were used in the column. The testing of the structured packing was done using two different packed brick orientations; one with all of the bricks in the same flow direction, the other with the middle brick rotated 90∘ from the orientation of the top and bottom bricks.A monoethanolamine (MEA) solution concentration of 3.0 molar was used in the experiments. The liquid distribution tests were done at one flow rates. Since the viscosity of the MEA solution was affected by the carbon dioxide (CO2) solution loading, experiments were also conducted to evaluate the effects of CO2 loading on the liquid hold-up.Our goal is to develop a cost effective structure packing that performs at a level that is comparable to commercially available packing, but with lower manufacturing and installation cost