Statistical analysis of effects of experimental variables on volumetric mass transfer coefficient in a novel hybrid rotating and reciprocating perforated plate bubble column is studied. The novel bubble column is designed indigenously using bevel gear arrangement. Agitation level, superficial gas velocity, superficial liquid velocity, perforation diameter and plate spacing are the experimental variables. Airsodium sulphite solution system is used in this investigation. The BoxBehnken design in response surface methodology is employed for statistical analysis. The relationship between experimental variables and the desired response of volumetric mass transfer coefficient is established for this novel hybrid column. The linear, quadratic and interactive effects of experimental variables are found to be significant on the desired response of volumetric mass transfer coefficient. Results show that the data adequately fit into the second-order polynomial model. An F-test and P-value show the significance of parameters on volumetric mass transfer coefficient. (c) 2012 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering