Calculators›Tray Hydraulics
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Distillation Tray Hydraulics

Fair's Correlation · GPSA Section 19 · FRI Guidelines

Distillation Tray Hydraulics Calculator
Comprehensive tray analysis including flooding (Fair's correlation), pressure drop, downcomer backup, weeping, and entrainment. Uses industry-standard methods from GPSA Section 19, Kister's Distillation Design, and FRI correlations.

Tower Geometry

ft
in
%
%
Typical Values:
Active area: 70-85% · Hole area: 8-14%
Tray spacing: 18-24" (standard)

Operating Conditions

lb/hr
lb/hr
psia
°F
Note: L/V ratio affects flooding correlation. Higher L/V requires lower vapor velocity.

Physical Properties

lb/ft³
lb/ft³
dyne/cm
in
Fair's CSB Equation:
CSB = K₁ × (σ/20)^0.2
σ baseline = 20 dyne/cm (hydrocarbon)

📚 Learn the Theory

Comprehensive guide to distillation tray design: pressure drop calculations, weeping/flooding limits, tray efficiency, Fair's correlation, and FRI methods.

Read Engineering Guide →

About This Calculator

Analyzes sieve tray hydraulic performance for distillation, absorption, and stripping towers using industry-standard correlations.

Key Methods:

  • Flooding: Fair's CSB correlation with K₁ factor from GPSA Fig. 19-14
  • Pressure Drop: Dry tray + liquid head + residual (Kister method)
  • Aeration: Bennett correlation for froth density
  • Weeping: Lockett-Banik minimum velocity
  • Entrainment: Hunt correlation (modified)

Design Targets:

  • Operate at 70-85% of flood
  • Downcomer backup <50% of spacing
  • Entrainment <10%
  • Weeping margin >20%

Quick Reference

Sieve tray ΔP 2-4 in H₂O
Valve tray ΔP 2-5 in H₂O
Weir height 2-3 in typical
Turndown (sieve) 2-3:1
Turndown (valve) 5-8:1

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