4. Sizing cross-current trays

4.1 Terms of service

The first step in sizing a tray is to collect the necessary data.

• Flow rates

  Liquid and vapor flow rates on the various trays are obtained by balancing the column, tray by tray, at nominal speed. The flexibility required of the system defines the minimum and maximum flow rates.

• Physical properties

  The physical properties of the mixtures required for dimensioning are :

  • density of liquid and vapour ;

  • the surface tension and viscosity of the liquid ;

  • the tendency of treated products to foam and clog....