Packing size considerations

The number of packing sizes, types (designs), and materials of construction currently available to the designer has increased considerably. To select a packing for a process application requires a weighing of information and an evaluation of the closest comparable data. 

Hie data are for three nominal packing sizes (1-in., 2-in., and 3)4-in.) and generally indicate a performance considerably better than comparably sized ring or saddle-type packings. Packing (or tray) peifonnance can also be predicted fiom correlations based on fundamental data. Available correlations are discussed in Giapter L... 

Finally, we note that the size and shape of the particles of the packing, the packing technique, and column dimensions and configuration are additional factors which influence a GPC experiment. In addition, the flow rate, the sample size, the sample concentration, the solvent, and the temperature must all be optimized. Details concerning these considerations are found in analytical chemistry references, as well as in the technical literature of instrument manufacturers. 

A catalyst manufactured using a shaped support assumes the same general size and shape of the support, and this is an important consideration in the process design, since these properties determine packing density and the pressure drop across the reactor. Depending on the nature of the main reaction and any side reactions, the contact time of the reactants and products with the catalyst must be optimized for maximum overall efficiency. Since this is frequendy accompHshed by altering dow rates, described in terms of space velocity, the size and shape of the catalyst must be selected carehiUy to allow operation within the capabiUties of the hardware. 

Earliest type, usually cheaper per unit cost, but sometimes less efficient than others. Available in widest variety of materials to fit service. Very sound structurally. Usually packed by dumping wet or dry, with larger 4-6-inch sizes sometimes hand stacked. Wall thickness varies between manufacturers, also some dimensions available surface changes with wall thickness. Produce considerable side thrust on tower. Usually has more Internal liquid channeling, and directs more liquid to walls of tower. Low efficiency. 

Crushing, selective particle size packing or hydraulic compaction can be used to reduce interparticle void space and increase the bulk density within the storage tank to approach the particle density of the carbon. Even with these extreme methods of packing, the fraction of the vessel which is micropore is never greater than 0.50 for any commercial carbon, considerably short of the 0.70 which is necessary for 170 V/V storage. 

In 1972-1973 Knox et al. [3, 4, 5] examined, in considerable detail, a number of different packing materials with particular reference to the effect of particle size on the reduced plate height of a column. The reduced plate height (h) and reduced velocity (v) were introduced by Giddings [6,7] in 1965 in an attempt to form a rational basis... 

---