(15d) An Overview of Distillation Trays and Packings in Japan

In Japan, various kinds of trays and packings have also been used for distillation, as in the States. Some of them are commonly used in various. However, there are some trays and packings which are developed and used only in Japan. For example, the Lift Tray, which is famous in Japan, is not known in the States. This tray is widely used in Japan and other Asian countries but has not been tested at the FRI. In the 1970s, large companies became interested in the development of new trays, for example, the TFT, the new VST and the Angle Tray. However, after the oil crisis, these companies no longer developed new trays or packings by them. Around the same time, a well known structured packing appeared which further reduced the motivation of large companies to develop new trays and packings. Instead, small scale companies started to develop new trays and packings. Some of these companies have succeeded commercially and are continuing to be used in Japan.