A Convenient and Efficient Fractionating Column and its Use in the Separation of the Heavy Isotopes of Hydrogen and Oxygen

Abstract

THE performance of a fractionating column recently constructed and used in this Department prompts us to place on record its chief characteristics. The column is packed with miniature (1/16 in.) -shaped ‘rings’ of phosphor-bronze gauze (100 mesh) and is enclosed in a vacuum jacket containing multiple, concentric aluminium reflectors. The length of the packed section is 12 ft. and its internal diameter is 20 mm. The column is supported on a specially designed ‘grid’. The ‘grid’ is a three-sided structure of metal piping built in the centre of a small laboratory, so that all points outside and inside the U-shaped assembly are easily accessible. The whole structure acts as a convenient supporting device, and the various metal pipes from which it is constructed serve to bring the usual services (gas, inlet and exit water) to numerous points suitably spaced for serving different types of fractionating columns and other items of equipment. The ‘grid’ also supports a large slate switchboard, from which all the electrical services can be controlled, and ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ vacuum lines are included in the assembly.