Structural Support with Maximum Open Area for Process Flow

Random Packing Support Plates are installed beneath a packed bed to support the weight of the random packing and accumulated liquid while allowing gas and liquid to pass freely through the column.

The support plate forms the foundation of the packed bed and must provide sufficient mechanical strength to withstand the packing load without creating unnecessary restriction to process flow. A high open-area design allows vapour to rise into the packed bed while liquid drains through the support plate, helping maintain efficient counter-current gas-liquid flow and minimise pressure drop.

The size and arrangement of the openings are selected to securely retain the random packing while providing the maximum practical free area. Depending on the column diameter, packing size, bed depth, and process conditions, the support plate can be manufactured in a variety of grid, beam, or profiled configurations.

For larger columns, Random Packing Support Plates are typically manufactured in sections to allow installation and removal through the vessel manway. Individual sections are supported by the column support ring and, where required, additional beams or structural members.

Random Packing Support Plates can be supplied for new columns, tower revamps, or as replacements for existing internals.