TruTec™ Scanning Services (North America, Mexico, Venezuela, Peru and Caribbean)

Tru-CAT™ Scan
Investigation and Analysis of Maldistribution Problems

• Map liquid maldistribution in packed columns
• Profile catalyst distribution in FCCU risers
• Identify integrity problems with column and reactor internals (packing, demister pads, catalyst beds, etc.)

A Tru-CAT™ Scan (Computer-Aided Tomography Scan) is a horizontal scan that generates cross-sectional density profiles inside a process vessel. The process vessel can be a packed distillation column or a fluidized catalyst riser or standpipe where flow distribution of the process fluids is vital to performance. The first step to determine liquid maldistribution in a packed column is to perform a Tru-Grid™ Scan. This provides an initial look at the liquid distribution within the packing. If more quantitative information about liquid distribution is desired or if there is a reasonable suspicion that the bed is experiencing annular liquid maldistribution then a Tru-CAT™ Scan is recommended.

Liquid Maldistribution Patterns
There are two types or patterns of liquid maldistribution. Chordal liquid maldistribution is experienced when one side (one chord) of a column has excess liquid and another side (chord) has liquid deficiency.

Annular liquid distribution is experienced when liquid flow distribution is in an annular pattern such as liquid flow against the wall or in the center of a column. Annular liquid maldistribution may appear as “uniform” liquid or density on Tru-Grid™ Scan results but will be detected by our Tru-CAT™ Scan technology.

Tracerco’s Tru-CAT™ Scan technology has proven to be a practical tool for investigating flow distributions of vapor/liquid and vapor/solid systems inside process vessels. Tru-CAT™ Scans have been used in packed bed and mist eliminator applications on column diameters ranging from 2 to 35 ft. (0.6 - 10.7m), and in fluidized catalyst beds in reactors ranging from 0.7 to 6 ft. (0.2 - 1.8m).

Applications of Tru-CAT™ Scan technology has provided a new “window” for observing hydraulic phenomena inside industrial process units in real time at an economical cost. If you would like additional information on our Tru-CAT™ Scan technology please contact a Technical Advisor in your area.

Brochure A PDF version of the Tru-CAT™ Scan Brochure is available, to download it click here