Packing Support Plates A random packed bed is held on a Packing Support Plate, whose essential attributes are to have a high percentage of open area so as to not inhibit the capacity of the tower and to allow the unrestricted counter-current flow of both liquid and vapour through it. This is achieved by providing separate passageways for the gas and the liquid. A series of slotted or perforated beams allow the gas to flow upwards through those openings that are located physically higher than the ones which the liquid flows downwards through, at the base of the plate. Typically, this type of support plate will offer an open area equivalent to 95-100% of the cross-sectional area of the tower. Also, the plate must have sufficient strength to retain and support the packed bed on it, including any liquid hold-up and trapped solids or fouling. The Random Packing Gas-Injection Support Plate (pictured) is designed to retain 2” (50mm) rings or larger. Smaller packing sizes may require a layer or two of larger packing placed on the support plate. A Support Plate can be supplied in sections to allow easy installation through access manways. It is usually installed on an internal ring or support ledge. Additional support beams should be considered in larger towers to provide the necessary structural support. Support plates can be fabricated and supplied in a range of thermoplastics or stainless steel. We can fabricate support plates with diameter from as little as 300mm to as big as 6m! PLEASE TELEPHONE US FOR ANY TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE YOU REQUIRE OR ALTERNATIVELY COMPLETE AND E-MAIL THE TOWER INTERNALS ENQUIRY FORM FOR A PROMPT REPLY,.