Abstract: A column for distillation or fluid-fluid separation is oriented at an angle to the horizontal other than vertical to provide increased transfer plate surface area within the interior of a column of determined diameter and to reduce overall height of the structure.

Abstract: A sealing device for a sulfur trap includes a float, a counterweight, and a cleaning rod. The density of the sealing device allows flotation of the device in molten sulfur. The counterweight includes a surface to mate with an upwardly extending hollow cylinder in the sulfur trap through which molten sulfur may flow. The sealing device engages the upwardly extending cylinder in a first position and floats in the molten sulfur contained in an upper chamber of the sulfur trap in a second position. The cleaning rod and counterweight contact the sides of the upwardly extending cylinder to prevent buildup of solid sulfur.