Methods of obtaining averaged diffusion equations are considered in case of non-uniform profile of the velocity in a channel. With the flow of Couette as an example, the comparison of exact and approximate solutions (obtained by means of perturbation method) has been carried out. The peculiarities of function of residence time distribution of liquid in the flows with non-uniform velocity field are noted. It is shown that the distribution function moments values including the zero and first moments values would depend on the degree of the velocity profile irregularity, on efficiency of radial mixing in a system as well as on the averaging method. The averaged diffusion equations which have been found by means of perturbation method are the most general of proposed ones at present in the appropriate literature. The Taylor's model and Goldstein's hyperbolic equations are included in said averaged equations as particular cases. The table of the numerical values of first three moments of RTD-function necessary for determining of the model parameters is given. The problems of application of the obtained averaged equation for calculating real chemical apparatuses, e.g. reactors, are discussed. © 1992, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. All rights reserved.