LIQUID DISTRIBUTOR FOR USE IN MASS TRANSFER COLUMN AND METHOD EMPLOYING SAME
A flow distributor (16) for liquid descending in a vertically elongated process column (10) having an internal space (14). The distributor (16) is made up of an elongated liquid distribution trough (46) configured and arranged for being mounted in a process column (10) in a position to extend across the internal space (14) thereof. The trough (46) has outer walls (48, 50, 52) defining an elongated, longitudinally extending internal fluid distribution chamber and includes outlet holes (60) which extend through the walls (48 or 50) at locations permitting liquid to escape laterally outwardly from the trough (46). The distributor (16) also includes a baffle distributor structure (64) made up of an elongated, downwardly extending distributor plate member (66) disposed adjacent the trough (46) in a position such that at least a portion of a surface thereof is contacted by liquid escaping from said holes (60). The distributor (16) also includes an elongated, fluid receiving element (68) attached at a lower edge portion of said plate member (66) presenting an elongated fluid distribution channel extending longitudinally of the plate member (66).