Holdup and pressure drop studies in structured packings with catalysts

Reactive distillation combines reaction with separation in a single column thereby increasing conversion for equilibrium limited reactions, minimizing side reactions and saving on recycle and capital costs. KATAPAK®-SP provides the flexibility in varying the ratio of the reaction zone relative to the separation zone depending on process requirements. The current study provides pressure drop and holdup data for KATAPAK®-SP 12 packing contained in a 100mm diameter column. Correlations are provided for both the dry gas and irrigated pressure drop. The gas loading point was correlated to the liquid flow rate. Flow pattern studies were conducted to estimate the saturation capacity of the packed bed as well as to determine the apportioning of the total liquid flow between the reaction and separation layers. A correlation for the dispersed phase liquid holdup is developed based on the operating variables, equipment parameters and a flow distribution parameter estimated from the flow pattern studies. The holdup and pressure drop correlations were extended to the post-loading region. © 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.