Abstract: A mass transfer column (20) is provided with an external shell defining an open internal region. Centrifugal contact trays (26) and return contact trays (28) are positioned in an alternating and vertically spaced apart relationship within the open internal region. Each contact tray has a plurality of vapor passages (33) for allowing vapor to flow upwardly through the tray deck to interact with liquid on the surface of the tray deck. At least one center downcomer (40) extends downwardly at an opening in the return tray deck and has a lower discharge outlet spaced above the centrifugal tray deck for feeding liquid onto the centrifugal tray deck. A rotation-inducing element may be placed within the center downcomer (40) to induce a rotational motion in liquid exiting the center downcomer (40). At least one annular downcomer (36) extends downwardly the periphery of the centrifugal tray deck and has a lower discharge outlet spaced about the return tray deck for feeding liquid onto the return tray deck.

Abstract: A vapor-liquid contact tray (26) is provided with a tray deck (28) having at least one opening for removing liquid from an upper surface of the tray deck and a plurality of vapor passages (44) for allowing vapor to flow upwardly through the tray deck to interact with the liquid on the upper surface. At least one can (34) extends upwardly from the tray deck and is formed by a perimeter wall (36). A downcomer (46) is interposed within the can to provide a passageway for liquid and has an upper inlet (50)for liquid entry, and a lower outlet (54) above the tray deck (28) for feeding liquid into the can and onto the tray deck. A plurality of deflector blades (56) are positioned above the tray deck to induce a swirling movement in the vapor ascending into the can. The portion of the tray deck surrounded by the perimeter wall of the can contains sieve holes, valves or other types of vapor passages. The tray may further include a sleeve (76), a plurality of cans (34) of two or more sizes or combinations thereof.

Abstract: A mass transfer column (20) is provided with an external shell defining an open internal region. Centrifugal contact trays (26) and return contact trays (28) are positioned in an alternating and vertically spaced apart relationship within the open internal region. Each contact tray has a plurality of vapor passages (33) for allowing vapor to flow upwardly through the tray deck to interact with liquid on the surface of the tray deck. At least one center downcomer (40) extends downwardly at an opening in the return tray deck and has a lower discharge outlet spaced above the centrifugal tray deck for feeding liquid onto the centrifugal tray deck. A rotation-inducing element may be placed within the center downcomer (40) to induce a rotational motion in liquid exiting the center downcomer (40). At least one annular downcomer (36) extends downwardly the periphery of the centrifugal tray deck and has a lower discharge outlet spaced about the return tray deck for feeding liquid onto the return tray deck.