1.

1 Abstract

The Gas Absorption experiment was conducted in order to determine the loading and flooding
points in the column and to determine the air pressure drop across the column as a function of
airflow for different water flow rates through the column. The result obtained is to be compared
between theoretical values that has been calculated. The experiment was run three times with
different water flow rate which are 1.0 L/min, 2.0 L/min and 3.0 L/min. For every water flow
rate, it was run for different air flow rate of 20 L/min, 40 L/min, 60 L/min, 80 L/min, 100 L/min,
120 L/min, 140 L/min, 160 L/min and 180 L/min. Graph of pressure drop against the air flow
rate was plotted and it showed an increasing pattern for all three water flow rates. The flooding
point was recorded during the water flow rate of 3.0 L/min and air flow rate of 100 L/min.
Basically the pressure drop is increasing when the air flow rate increased. The flooding happened
when the air pressure from the bottom is too high and pushed the water up. The percentage
different between the pressure drop gained from Appendix and the one recorded was calculated
in this experiment.
1.2 Introduction

Gas absorption is a process in which one or more soluble components which is solutes are
removed from a gas phase by contact with a liquid phase which is solvent into which the
components of interest dissolve. Basically, the absorbed gas is removed from the solvent and the
solvent liquid stream is returned to the system. This solvent-recovery process is called stripping.
Stripping also happened when volatile components have to be removed from a liquid mixture.
The stripping agent can be either a gas which is air or a superheated vapour which is superheated
steam. Absorption and stripping employ special contactors for bringing gas and liquid phase into
intimate contact (Coca, 2007)

In most common unit gas absorption, the solvent will enters the top of the absorber or stripper
and will flows downwards, counter current to the rising gas stream. The two phases mix and will
contact one another and the solute is transferred from the gas phase to the solvent (Coca, 2007).
A schematic diagram of an absorption-stripping process is shown as in Figure 1:

Figure 1: Typical absorption-stripping process with recycle of solvent (a) absorber, (b) stripper
There are two types of absorption processes, physical absorption and chemical absorption. The
process is dependent on whether a chemical reaction occurs between the solute and solvent that
act as absorbent. The process is classified as physical absorption when no chemical reaction
occurs between the solute and the absorbent and chemical absorption occurs when there is
irreversible and rapid neutralization reaction in the liquid phase (Gas Absorption & Desorption).

The absorption column unit model BP: 751-B that been used in this experiment is meant to
demonstrate the absorption of air into water in a packed column where the gas and liquid mixture
will counter-currently flow among the column packing. It is also designed to operate at
atmospheric pressure in continuous operation.

A common apparatus used in the absorption column and other operation is the packed tower.
This device consists of a tower equipped with a gas inlet at the bottom as a distributing space, a
liquid inlet and distributor at the top. The gas and liquid outlet are at the top and bottom
respectively and tower packing that use as a supported mass of inert solid shapes. The packing is
used to increase the surface contact area between the gas and liquid absorbent.
1.3 Aims

The objectives of this experiment is:

i. To determine the loading and flooding points in the column.
ii. To determine the air pressure drop across the column as a function of airflow for different
water flow rates through the column.
1.4 Theory
In an absorption process, two immiscible phases which are liquid and gas are present in which
the solute will diffuse from one phase to the other through the interface between the phases. For
a solute A to diffuse from the gas phase (V) into the liquid phase (L), it must pass through phase
V first, next the interface and then into the phase L in series.

A concentration gradient has to exist to allow the mass transfer to take place through resistances
in each phase. The concentration in the bulk gas phase, y(L) decreases to y(i) at the interface,
while the liquid concentration starts at x(i) at the interface and decreases to x(L) the bulk liquid
phase concentration.
There are two types of diffusions in an absorption process:
I. Equimolar counter diffusion – two components diffusing across the interface, one from
the gas to liquid phase, and the other are from the liquid to gas phase.
II. Diffusion through stagnant (Non-diffusing phase) – only one component diffuses across
the interface through stagnant gas and liquid phases.

This experiment required to plot graph of pressure drop against air flow rate in graph. The flow
parameter shows the ratio of liquid kinetic energy to vapour kinetic energy and parameter of K4
or y-axis needs and x-axis or FLV can be calculated by using these formulae:

𝑮𝟐𝒚 𝑭𝑷 𝝁𝟎.𝟏
𝒙 𝑮𝒙 𝝆𝒚
√
𝒈𝒄 (𝝆𝒙 − 𝝆𝒚 )𝝆𝒚 𝑮𝒚 𝝆𝒙 − 𝝆𝒚
Gas absorption is a process where mixture of gas is in contact with liquid and becomes dissolve.
Therefore, there is mass transfer occurs in the component that changes from gas phase to liquid
phase. The solutes are absorbed by liquid. Inside this experiment, only the mass transfer between
air and liquid are concerned. Gas absorption is widely use in industries to control the air
pollution and to separate acidic impurities out of mixed gas streams. The pressure drop values
are observed from the manometer. The graph of pressure correlation for different flow rate of
water is plotted in order to find the relationship between K4 and FLV. The steps on how to
obtaine K4 and FLV is shown below:

Density of air, ρG = 1.175 kg/m3

Density of water, ρL = 996 kg/m3
Column diameter, Dc = 80 mm
𝜋
Area of packed diameter, 𝐴𝑐 = 4 𝐷2

Packing Factor: Fp = 900 m-1

Water viscosity, µwater = 0.001 Ns/m2

Theoretical Flooding Point

1. Gy must be in m3/h

2. To calculate gas flow rate, GG (kg/m2s)

𝐺𝑦 × 𝜌
𝐺𝐺 =
𝐴𝑐

3. To calculate capacity parameter, K4,

𝜇 0.1
13.1(𝐺𝐺 )2 𝐹𝑝 (𝜌𝐿 )
𝐿
𝐾4 =
𝜌𝐺 (𝜌𝐿 − 𝜌𝐺 )

4. To calculate liquid flow rate, GL (kg/m2) (1 LPM, 2 LPM, 3 LPM)

𝐺×𝜌
𝐺𝐿 =
𝐴𝑐
5. To calculate flow parameter, FLV (1 LPM)

𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ )
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿

Where:
𝐺𝑦 = Air flow rate (m3/h)
1.5 Apparatus

Figure 2: Gas Absorption Column Unit (Model: BP 751-B)

1.6 Procedure

General start-up Procedures

1. All the valves were ensured closed except the ventilation valve V13.
2. All the gas connections were checked whether they are properly fitted.
3. The valve on the compressed air supply line was opened. The supply pressure was set
between 2 to 3 bar by turning the regulator knob clockwise.
4. The shut-off valve on the CO2 gas cylinder was opened. The CO2 cylinder was checked
whether the pressure is sufficient.
5. The power for the control panel was turned on.

Experiment : Hydrodynamics of a Packed Column (Wet Column Pressure Drop)

1. The general start-up procedures were performed as described above.

2. The receiving vessel B2 was filled through the charge port with 50 L of water by opening
valve V3 and V5.
3. Valve V3 was closed.
4. Valve V10 and V9 were opened slightly. The flow of water was observed from vessel B1
through pump P1.
5. Pump P1 was switched on, then slowly opened and valve V11 was adjusted to give water
flow rate of arrounf 1 L/min. The water was allowed to enter the top column K1, flew
down the column and accumulated at the bottom until it overflows back into vessel B1.
6. Valve V11 was opened and adjusted to give water flow rate of 0.5 L/min into column K1.
7. Valve V1 was opened and adjusted to give an air flow rate of 40 L/min into column K1.
8. The liquid and gas flow were observed in the column K1 and the pressure drop across the
column at dPT-201 was recorded.
9. Steps 6 to 7 were repeated with different values of air flow rate, each time increasing by
40 L/min while maintaining the same water flow rate.
10. Steps 5 to 8 were repeated with different values of water flow rate, each time increasing
by 0.5 L/min by adjusting valve V11.
General Shut-Down Procedures

1. Pump P1 was switched off.

2. Valve V1, V2 and V12 were closed.
3. The valve on the compressed air supply line was closed and the supply pressure was
exhausted by turning the regulator knob counter-clockwise all the way.
4. The shut-off valve was closed on the CO2 gas cylinder.
5. All the liquid in the column K1 was drained by opening valve V4 and V5.
6. All the liquid from the receiving vessels B1 and B2 were drained by opening valves V7
and V8.
7. All the liquid from the pump P1 was drained by opening valve V10.
8. The power for the control panel was turned off.
1.7 Results

flow Pressure drop (mm H2O)

rate(L/min)
Air 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180
Water
1.0 0 1 2 4 7 11 17 26 48

2.0 19 24 29 33 43 - - - -

3.0 11 19 25 49 - - - - -

Table 1: Pressure Drop for Wet column

Graph of Pressure Drop against Air Flow

Rate
60

50
Pressure drop, mmH20

40

30 1 LPM
2 LPM
20
3 LPM

10

0
0 50 100 150 200
Air Flow Rate

Graph 1: Graph Of Pressure Drop Against Air Flow Rate

 Flow rate
(L/min)
Water 1.0 2.0 3.0

Air

Gas Log Pressure Log Pressure Log Pressure Log

Flow Gas drop Pressure drop Pressure drop Pressure
rate Flow (mmH2O) drop (mmH2O) drop (mmH2O) drop
rate (mmH2O) (mmH2O) (mmH2O)
20 1.301 0 - 19 1.279 11 1.041

40 1.602 1 0 24 1.380 19 1.279

60 1.778 2 0.301 29 1.462 25 1.398

80 1.903 4 0.602 33 1.519 49 1.690

100 2.00 7 0.845 43 1.633 - -

120 2.079 11 1.041 - - - -

140 2.146 17 1.230 - - - -

160 2.204 26 1.415 - - - -

180 2.255 48 1.681 - - - -

Table 2: Log Gas Flow rate and Log Pressure drop

 Air Air GG K4 FLV (1 FLV (2 FLV (3 Pressure drop
Flow Flow (kg/ms2) (y-axis) LPM) LPM) LPM) correlated in mm H20
rate rate (1LPM) (2LPM)
(L/min) (m3/h) (3LPM)

20 1.2 0.0779 0.0154 1.454 2.912 4.362 1.52 5.08 12.7

40 2.4 0.156 0.062 0.727 1.456 2.181 5.08 10.16 25.4

60 3.6 0.234 0.139 0.484 0.971 1.454 8.89 25.4 38.1

80 4.8 0.311 0.245 0.364 0.729 1.093 12.7 40.64 50.8
100 6.0 0.389 0.383 0.292 0.584 0.874 25.4 45.72 -
120 7.2 0.467 0.553 0.243 0.468 0.728 40.64 - -
140 8.4 0.545 0.753 0.208 0.416 0.624 43.18 - -
160 9.6 0.623 0.989 0.182 0.365 0.546 50.80 - -
180 10.8 0.701 1.245 0.162 0.324 0.485 55.89 - -
Table 3: Theoretical Flooding Point
 Graph of Log Pressure Drop against Log Gas
Flow rate
1.8
1.6
Log Pressure Drop, mmH20

1.4
1.2
1
1 LPM
0.8
2 LPM
0.6
3 LPM
0.4
0.2
0
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5
Log Gas Flowrate, Gy

Graph 2: Graph of Log Pressure Drop against Log Gas Flow Rate

Graph of K4 against FLV

5
4.5
4
3.5
3
K4

2.5 1 LPM
2 2 LPM
1.5 3 LPM
1
0.5
0
0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4
FLV

Graph 3: Graph of K4 against FLV

1.8 Calculations

Information given :

Density of air, ρair = 1.175 kg/m3

Density of water, ρwater = 996 kg/m3

Column diameter, Dc = 80 mm

Area of packed diameter,

𝜋 2 𝜋
𝐴𝑐 = 𝐷 = (0.08𝑚)2 = 5.027 × 10−3 𝑚2
4 4

Packing Factor: Fp = 900 m-1

Water viscosity, µwater = 0.001 Ns/m2

LIQUID

 Calculate liquid flow rate, GL (kg/m2) (1 LPM)

1 𝐿 1 𝑚𝑖𝑛 1𝑚3 996 𝑘𝑔
𝐺×𝜌 × × × 𝑘𝑔
𝑚𝑖𝑛 60 𝑠 1000𝑙 𝑚3
𝐺𝐿 = = = 3.302
𝐴𝑐 5.027×10−3 𝑚2 𝑚2 .𝑠

 Calculate liquid flow rate, GL (kg/m2) (2 LPM)

2 𝐿 1 𝑚𝑖𝑛 1𝑚3 996 𝑘𝑔
𝐺×𝜌 × × × 𝑘𝑔
𝑚𝑖𝑛 60 𝑠 1000𝑙 𝑚3
𝐺𝐿 = = −3 2 = 6.614
𝐴𝑐 5.027×10 𝑚 𝑚2 .𝑠

 Calculate liquid flow rate, GL (kg/m2) (3 LPM)

3 𝐿 1 𝑚𝑖𝑛 1𝑚3 996 𝑘𝑔
𝐺 × 𝜌 𝑚𝑖𝑛 × 60 𝑠 × 1000𝑙 × 𝑚3 𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 = = = 9.907
𝐴𝑐 5.027 × 10−3 𝑚2 𝑚2 . 𝑠
 Water Flow Rate (L/min) 𝑘𝑔
GL (𝑚2.𝑠)

1.0 3.302
2.0 6.614
3.0 9.907
Table 4: Table of Water Flow Rate and GL

Theoretical Flooding Point for 20 L/min

20𝐿 1𝑚3 60𝑚𝑖𝑛

 Gy = × ×
𝑚𝑖𝑛 1000𝐿 1ℎ
= 1.2 𝑚3 /ℎ

 Calculate gas flow rate, GG (kg/m2s)

𝐺𝑦 × 𝜌
𝐺𝐺 =
𝐴𝑐

1.2𝑚3 1ℎ 1.175 𝑘𝑔
× 3600 𝑠 × 𝑘𝑔
=
ℎ 𝑚3 = 0.0779 2
−3
5.027 × 10 𝑚 2 𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate capacity parameter, K4 , y-axis

𝜇 0.1
13.1(𝐺𝐺 )2 𝐹𝑝 ( 𝐿𝐿 )
𝜌
𝐾4 =
𝜌𝐺 𝐿 − 𝜌𝐺 )
(𝜌

0.1
0.0779𝑘𝑔 2 −1 ) 0.001 𝑁. 𝑠/𝑚
2
13.1 ( ) ( 900 𝑚 ( )
𝑚2 𝑠 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
= = 0.0154
(1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )(996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 − 1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (1 LPM)

 𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 3.302 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 1.454
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.0779 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (2 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 6.614 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 2.912
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.0779 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (3 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 9.907 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 4.362
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.0779 2
𝑚 .𝑠

Theoretical Flooding Point for 40 L/min

40𝐿 1𝑚3 60𝑚𝑖𝑛

 Gy = × × = 2.4 𝑚3 /ℎ
𝑚𝑖𝑛 1000𝐿 1ℎ

 Calculate gas flow rate, GG (kg/m2s)

𝐺𝑦 ×𝜌
𝐺𝐺 = 𝐴𝑐

2.4𝑚3 1ℎ 1.175 𝑘𝑔
×3600 𝑠× 𝑘𝑔
ℎ 𝑚3
𝐺𝐺 = = 0.156
5.027×10 𝑚2
−3 𝑚2 .𝑠

 Calculate capacity parameter, K4,

0.1
0.156𝑘𝑔 2 −1 ) 0.001 𝑁. 𝑠/𝑚
2
13.1 ( ) (900 𝑚 ( )
𝑚2 𝑠 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
𝐾4 = = 0.062
(1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )(996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 − 1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (1 LPM)

 𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 3.302 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.727
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.156 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (2 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 6.614 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 1.456
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.156 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (3 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 9.907 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 2.181
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.156 2
𝑚 .𝑠
Theoretical Flooding Point for 60 L/min

60𝐿 1𝑚3 60𝑚𝑖𝑛

 Gy = × × = 3.6 𝑚3 /ℎ
𝑚𝑖𝑛 1000𝐿 1ℎ
 Calculate gas flow rate, GG (kg/m2s)
3.6𝑚3 1ℎ 1.175 𝑘𝑔
× × 𝑘𝑔
ℎ 3600 𝑠 𝑚3
𝐺𝐺 = = 0.234
5.027×10 𝑚2−3 𝑚2 .𝑠

 Calculate capacity parameter, K4,

0.1
0.234𝑘𝑔 2 0.001 𝑁. 𝑠/𝑚2
13.1 ( 2 ) (900 𝑚−1 ) ( )
𝑚 𝑠 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
𝐾4 = = 0.139
(1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )(996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 − 1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (1 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 3.302 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.484
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.234 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (2 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 6.614 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.971
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.234 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (3 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 9.907 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 1.454
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.234 2
𝑚 .𝑠
Theoretical Flooding Point for 80 L/min

80𝐿 1𝑚3 60𝑚𝑖𝑛

 Gy = × × = 4.8 𝑚3 /ℎ
𝑚𝑖𝑛 1000𝐿 1ℎ

 Calculate gas flow rate, GG (kg/m2s)

4.8 𝑚3 1ℎ 1.175 𝑘𝑔
×3600 𝑠× 𝑘𝑔
ℎ 𝑚3
𝐺𝐺 = = 0.311
5.027×10 𝑚2
−3 𝑚2 .𝑠

 Calculate capacity parameter, K4,

0.1
0.156𝑘𝑔 2 −1 ) 0.001 𝑁. 𝑠/𝑚
2
13.1 ( ) (900 𝑚 ( )
𝑚2 𝑠 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
𝐾4 = = 0.245
(1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )(996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 − 1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (1 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 3.302 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.364
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.311 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (2 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 6.614 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.729
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.311 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (3 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 9.907 2 1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√ ) = 1.093
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.311 2
𝑚 .𝑠
Theoretical Flooding Point for 100 L/min

100𝐿 1𝑚3 60𝑚𝑖𝑛

 Gy = × × = 6.0 𝑚3 /ℎ
𝑚𝑖𝑛 1000𝐿 1ℎ

 Calculate gas flow rate, GG (kg/m2s)

6.0𝑚3 1ℎ 1.175 𝑘𝑔
×3600 𝑠× 𝑘𝑔
ℎ 𝑚3
𝐺𝐺 = = 0.389
5.027×10 𝑚2
−3 𝑚2 .𝑠

 Calculate capacity parameter, K4,

0.1
0.156𝑘𝑔 2 0.001 𝑁. 𝑠/𝑚2
13.1 ( 2 ) (900 𝑚−1 ) ( )
𝑚 𝑠 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
𝐾4 = = 0.383
(1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )(996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 − 1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (1 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 3.302 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.292
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.389 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (2 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 6.614 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.584
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.389 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (3 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 9.907 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.874
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.389 2
𝑚 .𝑠
Theoretical Flooding Point for 120 L/min

120𝐿 1𝑚3 60𝑚𝑖𝑛

 Gy = × × = 7.2 𝑚3 /ℎ
𝑚𝑖𝑛 1000𝐿 1ℎ

 Calculate gas flow rate, GG (kg/m2s)

7.2𝑚3 1ℎ 1.175 𝑘𝑔
×3600 𝑠× 𝑘𝑔
ℎ 𝑚3
𝐺𝐺 = = 0.467
5.027×10 𝑚2
−3 𝑚2 .𝑠

 Calculate capacity parameter, K4,

0.1
0.467𝑘𝑔 2 0.001 𝑁. 𝑠/𝑚2
13.1 ( 2 ) (900 𝑚−1 ) ( )
𝑚 𝑠 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
𝐾4 = = 0.553
(1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )(996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 − 1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (1 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 3.302 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.243
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.467 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (2 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 6.614 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.486
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.467 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (3 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 9.907 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.728
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.467 2
𝑚 .𝑠
Theoretical Flooding Point for 140 L/min

140𝐿 1𝑚3 60𝑚𝑖𝑛

 Gy = × × = 8.4 𝑚3 /ℎ
𝑚𝑖𝑛 1000𝐿 1ℎ

 Calculate gas flow rate, GG (kg/m2s)

8.4𝑚3 1ℎ 1.175 𝑘𝑔
×3600 𝑠× 𝑘𝑔
ℎ 𝑚3
𝐺𝐺 = = 0.545
5.027×10 𝑚2
−3 𝑚2 .𝑠

 Calculate capacity parameter, K4,

0.1
0.545𝑘𝑔 2 0.001 𝑁. 𝑠/𝑚2
13.1 ( 2 ) (900 𝑚−1 ) ( )
𝑚 𝑠 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
𝐾4 = = 0.753
(1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )(996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 − 1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (1 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 3.302 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.208
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.545 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (2 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 6.614 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.416
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.545 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (3 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 9.907 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.624
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.545 2
𝑚 .𝑠
Theoretical Flooding Point for 160 L/min

160𝐿 1𝑚3 60𝑚𝑖𝑛

 Gy = × × = 9.6 𝑚3 /ℎ
𝑚𝑖𝑛 1000𝐿 1ℎ

 Calculate gas flow rate, GG (kg/m2s)

9.6𝑚3 1ℎ 1.175 𝑘𝑔
×3600 𝑠× 𝑘𝑔
ℎ 𝑚3
𝐺𝐺 = = 0.623
5.027×10 𝑚2
−3 𝑚2 .𝑠

 Calculate capacity parameter, K4,

0.1
0.623𝑘𝑔 2 0.001 𝑁. 𝑠/𝑚2
13.1 ( 2 ) (900 𝑚−1 ) ( )
𝑚 𝑠 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
𝐾4 = = 0.989
(1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )(996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 − 1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (1 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 3.302 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.182
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.623 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (2 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 6.614 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.365
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.623 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (3 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 9.907 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.546
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.623 2
𝑚 .𝑠
Theoretical Flooding Point for 180 L/min

180𝐿 1𝑚3 60𝑚𝑖𝑛

 Gy = × × = 10.8 𝑚3 /ℎ
𝑚𝑖𝑛 1000𝐿 1ℎ

 Calculate gas flow rate, GG (kg/m2s)

10.8𝑚3 1ℎ 1.175 𝑘𝑔
×3600 𝑠× 𝑘𝑔
ℎ 𝑚3
𝐺𝐺 = = 0.701
5.027×10 𝑚2
−3 𝑚2 .𝑠

 Calculate capacity parameter, K4,

0.1
0.701𝑘𝑔 2 0.001 𝑁. 𝑠/𝑚2
13.1 ( 2 ) (900 𝑚−1 ) ( )
𝑚 𝑠 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
𝐾4 = = 1.245
(1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )(996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 − 1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 )

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (1 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 3.302 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.162
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.701 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (2 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 6.614 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.324
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.701 2
𝑚 .𝑠

 Calculate flow parameter, FLV (3 LPM)

𝑘𝑔
𝐺𝐿 𝜌𝐺 9.907 2 3
𝐹𝐿𝑉 = (√ ) = 𝑚 . 𝑠 (√1.175 𝑘𝑔/𝑚 ) = 0.485
𝐺𝐺 𝜌𝐿 𝑘𝑔 996 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
0.701 2
𝑚 .𝑠
PERCENTAGE ERROR %

1LPM

Total pressure drop = 116 mm H20

𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒 − 𝑒𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒

𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑒𝑟𝑟𝑜𝑟, % = × 100%
𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒
244.1 − 116
= × 100% = 52.48%
244.1
2LPM

Total pressure drop = 148 mm H20

𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒 − 𝑒𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒

𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑒𝑟𝑟𝑜𝑟, % = × 100%
𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒
127 − 148
= × 100% = −16.54%
127
3LPM

Total pressure drop = 104 mm H20

𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒 − 𝑒𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒

𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑒𝑟𝑟𝑜𝑟, % = × 100%
𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒
127 − 104
= × 100% = 18.11%
127
1.9 Discussion

This experiment was conducted to determine the pressure drop across different flow rates of
water which is 1LPM, 2LPM and 3LPM. Pressure drop occurs in the packed column due to the
difference in pressure at the top and bottom of the column that caused by the interface between
the liquid and gas flow streams in the packed column.

In this experiment, the data was tabulated based on the necessary formula given. As shown in the
calculation part, the pressure drop based on the equipment was stated. By referring to the data
collected in Table 1: Pressure Drop for Wet Column, graph of pressure drop vs flow rate are
plotted as shown in Graph 1. From the graph, we can conclude that as the flow rate of air
increase, the pressure drop will also be increased. The pattern of pressure drop in this graph
increased proportionally with the air flow rate. This is because the gas started to hinder the liquid
down flow and local accumulation of liquid started to appear in the packing.

Percentage error of pressure drop in 1LPM is 52.48%, 2LPM is -16.54% and 3LPM is 18.11%.
This is due to overflow during experiment was carried on. It also might be due to minor leaking
when the experiment is being carried out. Minor leaking will affect the flow rate of both water
and air thus affecting the pressure drop. When the gas flow rate increased, pressure drop
increased and some of the water will trapped in packing. Later, the water from bottom will
increase until the highest level and this will results in flooding.

Flooding happened when the gas velocity is very high and it does not allow the flow of liquid
from the top of tower and flooding occurs on top of it. Based on theory, the best gas velocity is it
should be half of the flooding velocity. Flooding is a major concern in the industrial process
where it is a phenomenon by which gas moving in one direction in the packed column entrains
liquid moving in the opposite direction in the packed column. Based on this experiment, at the
point where the flow rate of air is 100 L/min and water flow rate of 3.0 L/min the pressure drop
has achieved its flooding point. At that point, the water level has reached its limit on the warning
line on the instrument and water flow out from the top of the tower.

In industrial, flooding is undesirable because it can cause a large pressure drop across the packed
column as well as other effects that can effect the performance and stability of the absorption
process. Apart of that, many parameters need to be considered for efficiency and to avoid
flooding problem in the design of the absorption packed column.

Unfortunately, there are few aspects need to be considered to get a better result for this
experiment. Before start the experiment, set properly the packed bed to avoid from equipment
error. For the best result also, before conducting the experiment, checked the condition of the
compressor first to ensure that the compressor operates normally. The air valve also should be
checked to make sure that it can adjusted to desired flow rates. This is because the result cannot
be recorded if we can’t get the right air flow rates.
1.10 Conclusion

In conclusion, the objective of this experiment was achieved. The air pressure drop across the
column for different water flow rates and the loading and flooding point in the column have been
determined. Based on the result, it can be said that as the gas flow increase at constant water flow
rates, the pressure drop will increase as well. The loading and flooding point was determined
whereby the flooding point of the water flow rates is 3.0L/MIN at 100 LPM respectively. The
importance of knowing the flooding point of the equipment been used is for user to notify the
limit at which level the equipment will faced up the flooding point. From this experiment, it can
be concluded that the air pressure drop across the column increases as the air flow rate and water
flow rate increases through the column.
1.11 Recommendations

In my opinion, there are some recommendations that should be taken account into to ensure the
experiment become more accurate. We should constantly check the valve controlling the level of
water flowing back to the water reservoir to get a better reading. In order to avoid from the air
being trapped in line, the level of water must be higher than the bottom of the reservoir. Besides
that, before using all the column, make sure that all the valves are closed so that the experiment
will run smoothly and make sure that the gas and liquid flow rates were constant at that
particular flow rates. The sample also must be simultaneously collect from both inlet and outlet
of the packed column. When starting up the system, always use low initial air and water
velocities. Be sure that the recycle valve to the sump pump is always at least partially open to
prevent from build-up of liquid and flooding, an extension has been added to the top of the
column to help prevent spillage of caustic. In order to avoid a parallax error, make sure that the
eyes are in parallel level while taking the reading.
1.12 Reference

Absorption. (n.d.). Gas Absorption & Desorption. Retrieved on 11th of November from
http://www.separationprocesses.com/Absorption/GA_Chp03.htm

Coca, J. (2007). Mass Transfer Operations: Absorption and Extraction. Spain: Eolss.

Geankoplis, C. J. (2003). Transport Processes and Separation Process Principle. Fourth edition,
page 659.

Yunus A. Cengel et. al., Fluid Mechanics Fundamentals and Applications, 2nd Edition, McGraw
Hill.
1.13 Appendix
 UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA
FAKULTI KEJURUTERAAN KIMIA
PROCESS ENGINEERING LABORATORY II (CHE 523)

NAME : NUR IZZATI BINTI AHMAD TARHIZI

GROUP : EH200 3A
EXPERIMENT : GAS ABSORPTION
DATE : 2 NOV 2015
PROG/CODE : EH220
SUBMIT TO : MADAM NOOR FAZLIANI SHOPARWE

No Title Allocated Marks (%) Marks

1 Abstract 5
2 Introduction 5
3 Objectives 5
4 Theory 5
5 Procedures/Methodology 10
6 Apparatus 5
7 Results 10
8 Calculation 10
9 Discussion 20
10 Conclusion 10
11 Recommendations 5
12 References 5
13 Appendices 5
TOTAL 100

Remarks:

Checked by: Rechecked by:

Date: Date: