Numerical study of the dynamics of air separation process by pressure swing adsorption

Using mathematical modelling and the finite element method, we carry out the calculation experiments to study the system connections and regularities of pressure swing adsorption process under the conditions of air separation and oxygen concentration (production). We study the influence of mode and construction variables on the dynamics and technological indicators of the effectiveness of this process. Namely, we study the influence of input variables (composition and temperature of atmospheric air, air pressure at the compressor outlet) on output variables (extraction degree, oxygen purity, unit capacity, etc.) of the studied object in a wide range of control variables (adsorption-desorption cycle time, pressure ratios at adsorption and desorption stages, and oxygen-enriched reverse air flow coefficient). Also, we study the influence of construction parameters (layer height, particle diameter and maximum adsorption volume of the adsorbent) on the amount of adsorption, which is equilibrium with the current concentration of the adsorptive in the gas mixture flow on the outer surface of the adsorbent granules, the value of the kinetic adsorption coefficient (the coefficient of external mass transfer of the adsorptive (mainly nitrogen) from the gas phase into the adsorbent). The results of calculation experiments allow to establish the most promising mode and construction parameters for the optimal design of oxygen enrichment systems by pressure swing adsorption with varying pressure.