Specifications of Intalox Saddle Ring Packings

Intalox Saddle Ring Packings are available in a range of nominal diameters, typically from 16mm to 76mm, with corresponding height dimensions optimized for fluid dynamics. For example, 16mm diameter saddles usually have a height of 12–16mm, while 76mm diameter models measure 60–76mm in height. This diameter-to-height ratio ensures balanced flow distribution and contact efficiency, with smaller sizes prioritizing surface area and larger sizes focusing on throughput.

The specific surface area, a critical factor for mass transfer, varies with size. Smaller 16mm saddles offer a higher surface area of approximately 350㎡/m³, while larger 76mm variants provide around 100㎡/m³. Their saddle-shaped structure, featuring dual curved surfaces and a central opening, minimizes fluid stagnation, and the rounded edges enhance liquid film renewal, contributing to efficient mass transfer.

Intalox Saddle Rings are manufactured from diverse materials to suit different operating environments. Ceramic variants excel in corrosive and high-temperature applications (up to 1000°C) but have lower impact resistance. Metal options, including stainless steel, carbon steel, and alloys like Hastelloy, offer high strength and temperature resistance (up to 600°C for stainless steel) and are ideal for non-corrosive or mildly corrosive processes. Plastic variants, such as pe pipe , polypropylene (PP) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), provide cost-effectiveness and chemical resistance in low-temperature, non-aggressive systems (up to 100°C for PP).

Material-specific mechanical properties are key specifications. Metal saddles, for instance, have tensile strengths ranging from 400–550 MPa (carbon steel) to 500–700 MPa (stainless steel), ensuring durability under packing bed weight. Ceramic saddles offer high compressive strength (≥200 MPa) but are brittle, requiring careful handling. Plastic saddles have lower tensile strength (20–30 MPa for PP) but good flexibility to resist minor impacts.

Void fraction, the ratio of empty space to total packing bed volume, ranges from 75% to 85%. Larger diameter saddles (e.g., 76mm) typically have a higher void fraction (≈85%), allowing greater gas and liquid throughput with lower pressure drop. Smaller diameters (16mm) have a slightly lower void fraction (≈75%) but enhance mass transfer by increasing contact opportunities.

Under standard operating conditions, pressure drop across the packing bed ranges from 50–300 Pa/m, depending on size, gas velocity, and liquid load. Smaller saddles create higher pressure drop due to increased surface contact, while larger sizes reduce resistance. Bulk density varies by material and size: ceramic saddles range from 500–700 kg/m³, metal from 400–650 kg/m³, and plastic from 100–150 kg/m³, influencing tower support design.

Temperature resistance varies by material: ceramic saddles handle up to 1000°C, stainless steel up to 600°C, and PP plastic up to 100°C. Pressure resistance is generally up to 10 barg for most industrial applications, with metal variants suitable for higher pressure systems with proper design considerations.

Material choice dictates chemical resistance. Ceramic and plastic (PP/PVC) saddles resist acids, alkalis, and organic solvents, making them ideal for corrosive environments. Carbon steel is suitable for non-corrosive media but may require coating in mildly aggressive conditions, while stainless steel (304, 316) offers enhanced corrosion resistance for broader chemical compatibility.

These specifications collectively enable engineers to match Intalox Saddle Ring Packings to specific process needs, ensuring optimal efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness in separation operations. Whether prioritizing mass transfer precision, high throughput, or corrosion resistance, understanding these specifications is key to successful packing selection.