Distribution, packed towers patterns

Photographs taken of distribution decks, tower packing, nozzles, waterfall patterns, sumps, etc. can be useful but are almost never taken, either during an initial survey or during the implementation of any subsequent water treatment contract. Both vendors and operators tend to rely on memories, which are notoriously selective and not quantifiable. 

Liquid Distribution Patterns in Packed Colunms (Data in 6-in., 12-in., and 24-in. Dia. Towers)... 

The gravity distribution basin located at the top of a crossflow tower is left open to the atmosphere. Water gravitates through orifices to the tower packing below, thus providing a splash-type pattern. 

From a process standpoint, the most important column internals are the liquid distributors. A liquid distributor is required at all locations in the tower where an external liquid stream is introduced. In addition to providing a uniform liquid distribution pattern to the top of the packed bed, the distributor also must provide sufficient gas passage area to avoid a high pressure drop or liquid entrainment. The liquid distributor should have a flow range suitable for the application and be resistant to fouling. 

---