Scalable liquid distribution system for large scale chromatography columns

Abstract

A uniform fluid distribution system () for use with a liquid transfer system () for maintaining an interface between liquid phases within a large scale separator system including a cell into which liquid may be introduced as discrete phases at an inlet zone occupying a first approximately transverse cross-sectional region of said cell and outputted at an outlet zone occupying a second approximately transverse cross-sectional region of said cell. Said distribution system comprises at least one liquid inlet () and at least two distribution outlets (), which are connected by an internal flow connection system (). Wherein said distribution outlets () are formed as concentric annular or rectilinear distribution-slots (), each with an unique radius/distance to the midpoint r to the midpoint between an inner slot-radius/distance to the midpoint and an outer slot-radius/distance to the midpoint, said radii/distances to the midpoint defining a slot-width w, through which annular distribution-slot () liquid entering said inlet () is distributed to said cell along an approximately horizontal plane, and said internal flow connection system () is formed such that it provides an essentially uniform fluid flow through the distribution-slots ().