Why is structured packing efficient

The reason why the structured packing is efficient is mainly due to its unique structural design and fluid dynamics characteristics, for the following reasons:

Large specific surface area and uniform distribution

The structured packing forms a large number of small contact interfaces through corrugated sheets or grid structures, and the specific surface area can reach 400-600m²/m³12. This design not only increases the gas-liquid contact area, but also enables a more uniform fluid distribution by optimizing the ripple Angle (e.g., 30° or 45°), reducing trench and wall flow phenomena.

Low resistance and efficient gas-liquid flow

The internal void ratio of the packing is as high as 95% or more 35, and the resistance of the gas passing through is only 1/4-1/659 of the loose packing. The corrugated structure guides the flow of gas and liquid in a film shape, and the mass transfer efficiency is significantly improved compared to the bubbling contact of the scattered packing.

Low liquid holdup and high operating flexibility

The liquid holdup of the structured packing is only 1%-6% of the volume of the tower, and the liquid residence time is short, which is conducive to rapid response to changes in working conditions. Its operating flexibility can reach 40%-120%36, and it can still maintain stable performance under varying loads.

Blockage resistance and corrosion resistance

The use of metal, plastic or ceramic material 12, and through puncturing, grooving and other structures to enhance surface wettability 19, effectively prevent clogging and extend service life. For example, metal orifice corrugated packings show excellent plugging resistance in the oil refining and chemical industry 9.

Industrial amplification effect is small

The geometric symmetry of structured packings makes their properties less attenuated38 during amplification. For example, in the air separation equipment, the oxygen extraction rate is increased by 1%-3% after the use of structured packing, and the argon extraction rate is increased by 5%-10%5, and the column diameter is reduced to reduce the transportation cost 3.

In summary, structured packings achieve a balance of efficient mass transfer and low energy consumption through structural innovation, and become the preferred packings in chemical, petroleum, air separation and other fields.