A flow distributor for liquid descending in a vertically elongated process
column having an internal space. The distributor is made up of an
elongated liquid distribution trough configured and arranged for being
mounted in a process column in a position to extend across the internal
space thereof. The trough has outer walls defining an elongated,
longitudinally extending internal fluid distribution chamber and includes
outlet holes which extend through the walls at locations permitting
liquid to escape laterally outwardly from the trough. The distributor
also includes a baffle distributor structure made up of an elongated,
downwardly extending distributor plate member disposed adjacent the
trough in a position such that at least a portion of a surface thereof is
contacted by liquid escaping from said hole. The distributor also
includes an elongated, fluid receiving element attached at a lower edge
portion of said plate member presenting an elongated fluid distribution
channel extending longitudinally of the plate member.