A solvent extraction pulsed column is drastically different from a mixer-settler in outward appearance but the basic functions are the same.

A Pulsed Column consists of a large diameter vertical pipe filled alternatively with disc & doughnut shaped baffles which facilitate contact between the immiscible liquids as they pass through the column.

The aqueous phase enters through a disperser at the top of the column and the solvent phase enters through a similar device near the bottom. A decanter at each end of the column permits the liquids to coalesce and be poured out separately. When the solvent phase is continuous the interface between the phases is in the lower decanter and when the aqueous phase is continuous, it is in the upper decanter.
The columns are pulsed by blowing air as and when required to create the pulses which are controlled using four-way solenoid valves.