Experiences with the Testing of Liquid Distributors

Spray nozzle & gravity distributors are primarily used in scrubbers and in wash zones, condensing zones, and pump around zones of crude oil vacuum towers. In many cases testing is limited due to time and equipment involved; this normally creates a conflict between maintenance and Process, and many times the test is not done. This paper presents the importance of the test, experiences performing the test and a “step by step” guideline for the performance of the test from the initial preparation until the end. Safety guidelines are also provided as a part of the “step by step” procedure.