Experimental characterization of a random packing with high specific surface area in a small diameter cryogenic distillation column

In present study, comprehensive experimental examination is performed to investigate the characteristics of packing for the separation of light stable isotopes. This work focused on the effect of liquid redistribution on wall flow reduction. In this research work, 0.005 m Dixon ring packing was constructed and characterized. Experimental tests were conducted in a packed column with a diameter of 0.04 m and various heights up to 1 m. Structural characteristics, pressure drop, dynamic hold-up and redistribution spacing were comprehensively investigated. Dry and wet pressure drop charts were plotted for a wide range of gas superficial velocities corresponding to gas loading factor values of 0.2-1.3 Pa0.5 Height of the packed section between two consecutive redistributors was defined at various liquid superficial velocities. Our results show that compared to larger columns, liquid should be redistributed in smaller spacings when the diameter of packed columns is smaller than 0.05 m. In addition, it is found that efficient redistribution spacing is about 0.3 m in a 0.04 m column. According to our findings, this value decreases the wall flow more than 50%.