Distillation Column Flooding & Tray Capacity Calculator

Calculate tray jet flooding vapor velocity (u_flood), Fair capacity factor (CSB), Flow Parameter (FLV), and allowable operational percentage of flood per Fair correlation.

Operating Flow Rates & Tray

Vapor Mass Flow V (kg/h):

Liquid Mass Flow L (kg/h):

Vapor Density ρ_V (kg/m³):

Liquid Density ρ_L (kg/m³):

Tray Spacing TS (mm): Standard: 450 mm to 600 mm (18" to 24")

Column Internal Diameter (m):

Capacity & Percentage of Flood

Percentage of Flood (% Flood):

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Flooding Vapor Velocity (u_flood):

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Fair Flow Parameter (F_LV):

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Fair Capacity Factor (C_sb):

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Net Active Area Vapor Velocity:

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the design target for percentage of flood in distillation columns?

Standard commercial columns are sized for 75% to 80% of flood at maximum design rates. Operating above 85% significantly degrades separation efficiency due to massive liquid entrainment.

What is the physical mechanism of jet flooding?

Jet flooding (entrainment flooding) occurs when high-velocity vapor jets atomize liquid on the tray and propel droplets upward through the tray spacing into the tray above, contaminating upper stages.

How does increasing tray spacing reduce column diameter?

Increasing tray spacing from 450 mm to 600 mm increases the Fair capacity factor CSB by ~15%, allowing higher vapor throughput per square meter of column cross-section.