Overview of Column Internals and Column Erection

When we used to do experiments in the Chemistry laboratory back in our school days, we used small glass test tubes to mix and match the various chemicals to get our desired results. However, when it comes to the real world, the scenario is a bit different. In the real-world scenario, chemical processes take place in huge factories and chemical plants, and in these factories, special columns are placed in strategic locations which are then used to hold and also mix different chemicals.

The most common use of columns, though, is to separate different types of chemicals on the basis of their chemical properties or temperatures. The huge columns are strategically placed and are used for such purposes. Hence, the columns are not just hollow columns of metals or alloys. They also contain different elements inside which help in the entire process, and these particular elements are referred to as column internals. Let us take a quick look at some of these elements which are necessary to ensure perfect separation of the fluids inside the column.

Right at the top of these columns, we have the mist eliminator. They are manufactured by mist eliminator manufacturers in Pune from packing material or inert fabrics. This layer helps to trap the vapor before it can escape.

There are moving or static parts inside the column as well. The purpose of this part is different. They are designed to help evenly spread the liquid over the cross-section of the column. They are called liquid distributors and could be in the form of nozzles, tubes, or channels.

There are support grids which provide support to the structured packing elements. This helps to hold in the fluids and keeps the pressure gradient to a minimum. These are specifically designed grids that are usually made of materials which are resistant to corrosion, because of the variety of chemicals that could pass inside the columns.

When there is condensation inside a column, the liquids on the inner walls often travels downwards. That is the reason why the wall wipers are placed so that the liquid can again be pushed back towards the packing at the center of the column.

We spoke about the support grids in the earlier half of the article. They are used for providing support to the structured packing. This packing consists of panels or plates which helps to channelize the process fluids properly.

When a distillation column is erected using the above column internals, the engineers engaged in carrying forward the task need to take many factors into consideration. Like for instance, the engineers need to analyze both the quantity and quality of the fluids that will flow through it. In addition to that, it is the job of the engineers to determine the material and the dimensions as well. First and foremost, it needs to be verified whether the heating of the fluids would be done with the help of a heating source inside the column or outside, which in turn would impact the dimensions.

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