Performance analysis and quantitative design of a flow-guiding sieve tray by computational fluid dynamics

An evolution of the traditional sieve tray, the flow-guiding sieve tray (FGST), has been utilized in many separation processes, especially for handling viscous systems. The objectives of this work are to optimize the design process of FGSTs and realize the full potential of their separation performance. A computation fluid dynamic (CFD) model that incorporated the modified interphase momentum transfer term was developed. Simulated measures of hydrodynamic performance, such as pressure drop, weeping, entrainment, and clear liquid height agree well with the experimental data, thus verifying the accuracy and reliability of the CFD model established in this work. Furthermore, based on the obtained hydrodynamic parameters, a quantitative model for designing flow-guiding holes was established and validated by modifying an experimental FGST (diameter 476 mm) and reconstructing an industrial sieve-tray tower (diameter 1,200 mm). The hydrodynamic parameters and quantitative model are of vital importance for better design and further modification of FGST.