Abstract: Disclosed is a random packing element for use in exchange process apparatus, for example. The packing element features boughed strips and projections to provide an abundant supply of liquid flow surfaces, drip points and gas flow-through passages to enhance the interfacing of fluids in the exchange process packing bed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a technique for packing an exchange chamber to facilitate interaction between two fluids. Corrugated packing plates are arranged with the corrugations of next corrugated plates running in different directions. The plates feature slots breaking the ridges of the plates and having corresponding tabs projecting into the corrugation grooves. The slots may provide drip points for liquid as one fluid moving through the slots in addition to permitting flow of the second fluid through the slots. A lip at the intersection of a slot and the ridge it breaks captures liquid bridging the slot to direct such liquid to the underside of the ridge.

Abstract: A packing element for use in an exchange column is provided. The packing element is of the type consisting of a plurality of corrugated plates placed adjacent to one another, with the corrugations of adjacent plates forming a criss-cross pattern. A plurality of regular linear arrays of "W"-shaped openings, alternating with linear arrays of "V"-shaped openings are formed in each plate. The locations of these openings or notches with respect to the corrugations are so arranged as to create liquid drip points and flow paths on the individual plates that improve the mixing and mass transfer characteristics of the packing element.