Abstract: The present invention relates to a distributor for distributing a liquid in an exchange column. The distributor comprises at least one predistributor means positioned to receive a liquid feed and a plurality of distributor means having substantially straight longitudinal side walls and open top portions. The interior and exterior of the longitudinal side walls of the predistributor means are covered with a wettable, open-pore material. In operation the liquid feed flows from the predistributor means into the interior of the distributor means, through the open-pore material, exiting this open-pore material on the exterior of the distributor means. In this manner an improved, even distribution of the liquid feed within the exchange column is obtained.

Abstract: Column packing for gas-liquid contact comprises a saddle with a net-like matrix structure formed from a plurality of intersecting ribs provide substantially improved material transfer, gas permeability and reduced pressure losses.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to an annular filling member, used in a gas/liquid contact apparatus such as a gas/liquid contact tower, and comprises one or more annular ribs having arranged thereon inwardly projecting, sharp-edge configured, alternately terminating drain plates which extend over a third to four fifths of the axial dimension of the member with the remainder of the axial dimension comprising a drain web.