Computational fluid dynamic simulation of MVG tray hydraulics

The flow pattern and hydraulics of a Mini V-Grid valve (MVG) tray is predicted by using computational fluid dynamics simulation. A 3-D CFD model in the Eulerian framework was used. The simulation results for MVG tray are compared with that of sieve tray. The sieve tray geometry and operating conditions are based on the Solari and Bell’s sieve tray [1]. The MVG tray differs from that of Solari and Bell’s sieve tray solely by the difference in design of available openings for the flow of gas. The simulation results show that the clear liquid height and the pressure drop of MVG tray are lower than that of sieve tray whereas the liquid velocity is higher and contacts of phases are good. The simulation results of sieve tray are in agreement with the experimental data of Solari and Bell [1].