The invention in one embodiment is a nozzle device for coupling with a
fluid distribution conduit for improving the distribution of an upward or
downwardly flowing poly-phase mixture including at least one gas phase
and at least one liquid phase, above at least one packed bed of granular
solid or fluidized bed. The fluid distribution conduit for receiving
liquid and gas phases has one or more lateral openings for flow over an
upper portion of its height through which a gas phase can enter and has
fluid distribution conduit having one or more lateral openings for flow
over at least a lower portion of its height through which a liquid phase
can enter the fluid distribution conduit. It also has at least one lower
cross section for flow through which a mixture of gas and liquid
communicate with a packed bed of granular solid or a fluidized bed. The
nozzle device includes a venturi nozzle having an outer diameter not
greater than an inner diameter of the lower cross section of the fluid
distribution conduit, wherein the nozzle device may be fixedly coupled to
and co-axially aligned with the lower cross section of the fluid
distribution conduit. It is for accelerating and dispersing the liquid
and gas phases passing out of the conduit.