Numerical simulations on the effect of sloshing on liquid flow maldistribution of randomly packed column

Randomly packed columns are key equipment for natural gas pre-treatment process of the FLNG (Floating Liquefied Natural Gas). It is of great importance to study on the effect of sloshing on liquid flow maldistribution at the column tray under severe sea state. A three-dimensional CFD model for randomly packed column under sloshing conditions was developed and the inter-phase drag force, porous resistance force, liquid dispersion and radial variation of volume porosity were incorporated into the volume averaged equations. Then the simulation results were validated with the experimental data. Both static and sloshing simulations have been carried out with varying angles and aspect ratios to map the distortion of liquid distribution. Quantitative analysis of liquid volume fraction, liquid velocity and maldistribution factor affected by tilt angles and aspect ratios were provided. The duration time of the dry area occupies about 40% of the period in the wall region and the total dry area occupies about 10% of the cross-sectional area. The maximum tilt angle should be less than 3° to prevent severe liquid flow maldistribution of the column with the aspect ratio of 3 (L/D = 3).