Argon Column Intermediate Storage for Rapid Load Rate Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air separation units face challenges in maintaining constant L/V ratios during changes in argon column load rates, leading to inefficiencies and limitations in rate adjustments.
Innovation Solution
Installation of intermediate liquid storage capacities at the outlet of distributors to manage liquid reflux during load changes, allowing for quicker adjustments in argon production rates without additional equipment, utilizing a system of stacked storages and a condenser for efficient liquid management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the argon column load rate is changed rapidly, then the productivity increases, but the L/V ratio becomes unstable and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention installs intermediate liquid storage capacities at the outlet of distributors that are filled with excess liquid during load decreases and used during load increases. This preliminary storage of liquid ensures that the column maintains adequate liquid levels and L/V ratios during rapid load changes, enabling productivity increases to 5%/min while maintaining separation efficiency.
2Stability of the object's composition
If additional equipment is added to maintain L/V ratios during load changes, then the stability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention integrates the liquid storage function directly into the existing column structure by installing intermediate storage capacities at the outlet of distributors. This merging of storage and separation functions within a single integrated structure maintains L/V ratio stability during load changes without requiring separate external storage systems or additional complex equipment.
3Device complexity
If the column operates without intermediate storage capacities, then the device complexity is reduced, but the liquid supply becomes insufficient during load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate storage capacities are pre-filled with excess liquid during periods of reduced load or normal operation. When load increases occur, this pre-stored liquid is immediately available to maintain adequate liquid supply and reflux conditions, preventing liquid deficiency without requiring complex real-time liquid addition systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid modifications in argon production rates, reaching up to 5%/min or more, while maintaining operational efficiencies by ensuring consistent liquid supply and reflux management.
Implementation Method 1
the liquid vaporized in the overhead condenser being returned to the column system
Implementation Method 2
producing argon by cryogenic distillation of an air gas
Implementation Method 3
cryogenic distillation of air
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
Argon production apparatus by cryogenic distillation comprising an argon separation column (K), means for sending a gas containing argon and oxygen (ORG) to the column, means for extracting an argon-enriched fluid (ARG) from the top of the column, means for extracting an oxygen-enriched liquid (ORL) from the column tank and at least two storages (S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6), arranged one above the other, each storage being connected to two different intermediate levels of the argon separation column by two pipes, the two storages being contiguous.