Experimental results of the thickness and velocity distribution of the vertical falling film of a gas-liquid two-phase flow in a scrubbing-cooling tube are reported. The liquid Reynolds numbers ranges from 1.0 x 10(4) to 3.1 x 10(4). A 3D numerical model of the scrubbing-cooling ring and tube has also been established. The simulation results agree well with the experimental data. The research shows that the average liquid film thickness is largest at the 0 circumferential position. A part of the liquid is separated from the local liquid film and drips in the gas core when Reynolds number >= 1.5 x 10(4). Circumferentially the liquid film thickness is distributed more evenly in the lower section of the tube. When the liquid Reynolds number increases, both of the global liquid film thickness and velocity increase, and the thickness distribution becomes unevener. The liquid film velocity increases with the increase of flow distance at small Reynolds number and decreases at large Reynolds number. (C) 2016 Institution of Chemical Engineers. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.