Pro-Pak is a high efficiency distillation column packing with unique wetting properties. Applications range from laboratory and pilot plant distillation columns to those used in small manufacturing plants. Pro-Pak is self wetting, so equilibrium time is reduced — distillations can be stopped and started without lengthy delay. The entire surface of the packing is available for mass transfer, contributing to its high efficiency. The shape of the packing eliminates interlocking and makes filling and emptying the column as easy as pouring water.

Pro-Pak is formed from metal ribbon through which more than 1000 tiny holes per square inch have been punched. As the points of the die push through the metal, jagged burrs are formed on the reverse side of the ribbon. Pro-Pak’s self-wetting properties derive from a rectangular network of capillaries on the surface of the metal, produced by the combined effect of the holes in the ribbon and the roughness of the burrs. These properties ensure that Pro-Pak stays wet in service in the distillation column and retains its high efficiency. Because the surface area of the packing remains effective under low liquid loadings, high column efficiency is maintained at vapor velocities very much lower than the flooding velocity.

Pro-Pak can be used for both atmospheric and reduced pressure distillations down to 10 mm Hg condenser pressure. As the operating pressure decreases, efficiency increases. The HETP (height equal to a theoretical plate) varies from 0.5 inch to 1.4 inch in a 1-inch diameter column, depending on operating pressure and reflux rate.

The large surface area made effective by the wettability of Pro-Pak allows for efficient mass transfer between the liquid and vapor phases. The surface area is approximately 576 square feet per cubic foot for the 0.16-inch size and 372 square feet per cubic foot for the 0.24-inch size. The packing factor is 693 for the 0.16-inch size and 420 for the 0.24-inch size.

High free space is especially important in vacuum distillation (for reduction of pressure drop) and in extractive distillation and absorption (where high liquid or vapor loading is common). Pro-Pak has high free space: 94% for the 0.16-inch size and 96% for the 0.24-inch size. Because of its high free space, Pro-Pak has a high flood rate.

In addition to type 316 stainless steel packing, listed below, Pro-Pak is also available in Monel, nickel, and other metals on special order.

CANNON manufactures special interdistributor screens and hold down screens that provide optimum efficiency for Pro-Pak columns. These screens are manufactured on a custom basis to fit any specified column diameter.

Our Pro-Pak technical bulletin contains additional information. A free sample of Pro-Pak can also be supplied. Please contact CANNON to receive a free copy of the Pro-Pak bulletin and a sample of the packing.

Pro-Pak Order Information Catalog # Item Description   3947-A20 316 Stainless Steel Packing, 0.16-inch. 1 L 3947-A30 316 Stainless Steel Packing, 0.16-inch. cubic foot 3947-A60 316 Stainless Steel Packing, 0.24-inch. 1 L 3947-A70 316 Stainless Steel Packing, 0.24-inch. cubic foot