Adjustable circumference fractionation tray and method of installation

摘要

A novel fractionation tray (1) includes slidable decking plates (4) located between and alongside parallel downcomers (2). The decking plates located between a pair of downcomers have sections which may be extended outward toward the edge of the tray to adapt the shape of the tray to the internal shape of the column in which it is installed. A method of installing the trays, with an upper tray being supported only by a lower tray, is also disclosed.