The characterization of fluid dynamics and mass transfer is often
influenced by phase maldistribution. An existing cell model approach for
fluid distribution is extended for gas distribution and mass transfer.
The model differentiates wall and bulk zones, allowing a detailed
evaluation of local fluid dynamics and mass transfer, which is based on
a state-of-the-art literature correlation. Distribution parameters are
determined experimentally. The model allows scale-up by considering the
phase distribution at constant computational effort. A scale-up strategy
to adapt the distribution parameters to different geometries is
presented. Results for fluid dynamics and liquid distribution are in
good agreement with experimental data of columns with diameters of
0.288, 0.5 and 0.6 m. Mass transfer is in good qualitative agreement
with own experiments in a 0.288 diameter column. While maldistribution
consequently reduces the gas side mass transfer, the reduced liquid bulk
flow weakens the effect of liquid side mass transfer.