Design Results
Engineering Checks
Breakthrough Curve
Pressure Drop Sensitivity
Scenario Comparison
| Scenario | Diameter | Bed depth | Media mass | Breakthrough | Pressure drop | Annual cost | Cost / volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No scenarios saved. | |||||||
Detailed Calculation Record
Formula Used
Column area follows flow divided by superficial velocity. Bed volume follows flow multiplied by EBCT. Media mass follows bed volume multiplied by bulk density.
The Ergun equation estimates packed-bed pressure loss. It combines viscous and inertial terms. Particle shape changes the effective diameter.
Breakthrough estimates use a fitted or assumed sigmoid curve. Pilot data improves the t₅₀ and rate estimates. Final designs require validation testing.
How to Use
- Select the calculation mode and column arrangement.
- Enter flow, concentrations, and operating conditions.
- Choose a geometry basis and contact-time target.
- Enter adsorbent, isotherm, and hydraulic properties.
- Paste pilot data when available for curve fitting.
- Add regeneration and cost information.
- Calculate, review warnings, then compare scenarios.
Start with conservative capacity and utilisation assumptions. Compare several media choices before final selection. Confirm the design with representative pilot testing.
Example Data
| Parameter | Example | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Flow rate | 100 m³/h | Defines hydraulic capacity. |
| Influent concentration | 50 mg/L | Sets contaminant loading. |
| Target concentration | 5 mg/L | Defines breakthrough criterion. |
| EBCT | 10 minutes | Sets required bed volume. |
| Superficial velocity | 10 m/h | Sets cross-sectional area. |
| Bulk density | 500 kg/m³ | Converts bed volume to media mass. |
| Particle size | 1.2 mm | Influences pressure drop. |
| Custom capacity | 65 mg/g | Provides a direct capacity option. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is empty-bed contact time?
EBCT is bed volume divided by volumetric flow. It is a screening contact-time measure. Actual pore-water contact time is different.
Which breakthrough model should I select?
Select the model used for your pilot study. Thomas and Yoon-Nelson are common screening choices. Compare fitted errors before accepting predictions.
Can this replace pilot testing?
No calculator can reproduce every water or gas matrix. Competition and fouling can lower capacity. Pilot testing remains the preferred confirmation method.
Why is full-scale capacity lower?
Background compounds compete for adsorption sites. Mass transfer can also limit utilisation. Apply a conservative competition factor.
What causes high pressure drop?
Small particles and high velocity increase pressure loss. Fouling can add severe resistance. Pretreatment may protect the bed.
How are series columns treated?
Each series vessel receives the full process flow. The lead column captures most contaminant first. The lag column protects final effluent quality.
How are parallel columns treated?
The calculator divides flow among operating columns. Each column receives a smaller hydraulic load. Flow balancing remains an important design requirement.
What is the mass-transfer zone?
The MTZ is the active adsorption region. It moves through the bed during operation. A shorter zone improves media utilisation.
How does regeneration affect cost?
Regeneration reduces fresh media demand. Capacity normally declines after repeated cycles. Include make-up media and disposal costs.
Which units are used internally?
The calculator converts inputs to SI units. Results are then formatted for readability. Unit assumptions appear in the calculation record.
What does the safety factor change?
The factor increases required bed volume and media mass. It also makes service estimates more conservative. Use project-specific engineering judgement.
How should multiple contaminants be entered?
Enter one contaminant on each line. Include concentrations and a capacity factor. The lowest factor governs the warning check.