Patent ID: 6568663
Filing Date: 2003-05-27
Classification: B01D

Abstract:
A fractional distillation process which comprises:(a) passing a liquid comprising a first component and a second component onto an upper first tray located in a fractional distillation column containing a plurality of vertically spaced apart multiple downcomer fractionation trays and operated at fractionation conditions which cause vapor to rise through decking areas provided on the trays while liquid is collected in at least one downcomer forming part of each tray, with liquid which has been collected in a downcomer of the first tray exiting the downcomer through openings located in a lower portion of the downcomer; (b) collecting and retaining liquid, which is passing downward from said openings in the lower portion of the downcomer of the first tray, in a walled retention volume of a liquid collection and distribution pan suspended between the first tray and a lower, second tray; and (c) discharging liquid from the liquid collection pan onto the decking area of the second tray in a pattern aligned parallel to a downcomer of the second tray.