1 / 5
The Liquid Collector and Distributor, also known as a Liquid Redistributor or Collector Tray, is a critical column internal used in multi-bed packed towers. Its primary function is to collect the liquid descending from the upper packing bed, direct it away from the gas stream, and then redistribute it uniformly to the lower bed. The design typically combines a gas-rise chimney tray with a liquid collection pan and a trough or orifice-type distribution system. This prevents liquid channeling and ensures the lower bed receives an even liquid load, which is essential for high mass transfer efficiency. It also allows for total or partial liquid draw-off for side-stream products, pump-around circuits, or reboiler feeds. Fabricated from stainless steel or carbon steel, the device is custom-engineered for each column diameter and process condition.
Integrates both functions in one assembly, reducing column height and simplifying internal layout compared to separate collector and distributor units.
The chimney tray allows gas to rise freely while liquid is collected with minimal entrainment, ensuring dry gas enters the upper bed.
Supports total or partial liquid withdrawal for side-streams, reflux, or reboiler circulation without disturbing the main liquid flow to the lower bed.
Precision-engineered troughs or orifices deliver an even liquid pattern across the full cross-section, eliminating maldistribution and maintaining column performance.
Designed to maintain distribution quality across a broad range of liquid loads, typically achieving turndown ratios up to 3:1.
Manufactured from 304/316L stainless steel, carbon steel, or higher alloys, withstanding temperatures up to 450°C and corrosive media.
| Parameter | Typical Value / Range |
|---|---|
| Column Diameter | 300–8000 mm |
| Collector Type | Chimney Tray / Trough Collector / V-Notch |
| Trough Spacing | 200 / 250 / 300 / 400 / 500 mm |
| Gas Rise Area | 15–40% of column cross-section |
| Liquid Load Range | 0.5–80 m³/m²·h |
| Turndown Ratio | Up to 3:1 |
| Material Thickness | 2–4 mm (deck), 3–6 mm (troughs) |
| Max Operating Temp | ≤450°C (SS304/316L) |
| Draw-Off Configurations | Full draw-off / Partial draw-off / No draw-off |
Its primary purpose is to collect liquid descending from an upper packing bed, isolate it from the upcoming gas stream, and redistribute it evenly across the lower bed to prevent liquid channeling and ensure optimal mass transfer efficiency.
By combining chimney-tray collection with distribution troughs or orifices into a single assembly, it eliminates the vertical spacing required for separate standalone collectors and distributors, minimizing total vessel height.
Yes. It can be configured for total, partial, or zero liquid draw-off, facilitating side-stream product withdrawal, pump-around circuits, or reboiler feed lines without disrupting flow to the lower bed.
The internal can be custom-engineered for column diameters ranging from 300 mm to 8000 mm, fabricated from materials including SS304, SS316L, carbon steel, and specialty alloys capable of withstanding operating temperatures up to 450°C.
The system maintains high distribution performance across varying liquid loads from 0.5 to 80 m³/m²·h, delivering turndown ratios typically up to 3:1.
