Analysis of gas purification by pressure swing adsorption: priming the parametric pump
The transients during startup of a pressure-swing adsorber (PSA) lead to material and energy losses. A dynamic mathematical model is developed to analyze the PSA process to elucidate the conditions under which losses may be minimized. It is based on an ideal binary mixture comprised of components that have linear isotherms. A processing alternative that virtually eliminates losses is suggested. The alternative is formulated by considering the PSA process as a specific type of parametric pump. It follows intuitively that, as in an ordinary pump, the parametric pump will commence operation at steady-state if it is primed. In the case of PSA, that amounts to purging the initial adsorber contents with the less strongly adsorbed component. Illustrations are provided of both single-bed and dual-bed processes. For a specific gas mixture and adsorbent, the effect of varying the ratio of the high and low pressures that occur in a cycle is examined. Results indicate that there is a significant advantage in priming the single-bed version because of the surge tank, which promotes backmixing. There is still an advantage in priming the dual-bed version, however, despite the absence of backmixing.
- Research Organization:
- Ohio State Univ., Columbus
- OSTI ID:
- 6314174
- Journal Information:
- Sep. Sci. Technol.; (United States), Vol. 18:12-13
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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