In refinery and petrochemical operations, reactor internals have a direct impact on efficiency and safety. Among them, the hub lateral system plays a central role by distributing or collecting fluids evenly across the catalyst bed. A well-designed hub lateral prevents channeling, pressure imbalances, and catalyst loss, while extending reactor cycle life.
What is a Hub Lateral?
A hub lateral consists of a central hub connected to multiple laterals radiating outward. Each lateral is fitted with precision slots or wedge wire screens that allow liquid or gas to pass while retaining catalyst or media. They are typically placed at the top or bottom of reactors for uniform distribution or collection.
Compared to perforated pipes, wedge wire hub laterals offer precise slot sizes, higher strength, and resistance to fouling—making them ideal for hydrocracking, reforming, and desulfurization units.
Key Design Considerations
• Material selection: stainless steel, duplex, or nickel alloys depending on pressure, temperature, and corrosion levels.
• Slot size: precision openings prevent catalyst loss and reduce pressure drop.
• Geometry: Correct lateral length and spacing ensure even flow.
• Strength: robust welding and reinforcement resist mechanical stress.
• Maintenance: designs should allow backwashing or cleaning to reduce fouling.
Advantages of High-Quality Hub Laterals
• Even flow distribution and improved catalyst utilization.
• Lower pressure drop and higher process efficiency.
• Extended catalyst cycle length and reduced downtime.
• Durability in harsh conditions, supporting long-term reliability.
Common Issues and Solutions
• Fouling → solved with wedge wire profiles and cleaning options.
• Maldistribution → addressed by precise lateral geometry.
• Corrosion → prevented through alloy selection.
• Mechanical damage → reduced with reinforced structures.
Industry Examples
✔ A North American hydrocracker reduced pressure drop by 15% and extended catalyst life after switching to wedge wire hub laterals.
✔ An Asian desulfurization unit solved corrosion issues using duplex stainless steel hub laterals, extending service life by 40%.
Why Choose YUBO
YUBO specializes in custom wedge wire hub laterals, offering:
• Accurate slotting and strict quality control.
• Material flexibility from 304, 316L stainless steel to advanced alloys.
• Tailor-made geometries for specific reactor conditions.
• Global delivery and technical support.
• Selecting the Right Hub Lateral
Before purchase, consider reactor type, catalyst size, operating conditions, and material compatibility. Partnering with an experienced supplier like YUBO ensures the right balance of performance, durability, and cost efficiency.
Hub laterals are vital for safe and efficient reactor operation. By choosing precision-engineered wedge wire solutions from YUBO, operators can achieve longer catalyst life, lower operating costs, and greater process reliability.
Contact Information
E-mail: sales@yubofilter.com
WhatsApp: 86 13653285589
Article Source: www.yubofilter.com
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