Simulation Based Synthesis, Design and Optimization of Actual Pressure Swing Adsorption （PSA） Unit

The present study demonstrates the potential of the simulation based on-line synthesis, design and optimization strategy for pressure swing adsorption （PSA） processes developed in our earlier study by implementing on an actual two-bed unit. The unit is very flexible and allows process synthesis from the PSA cycle configuration point of view. The model parameters are regressed and updated using live experimental data. The on-line monitoring and controlling of the operating parameters and operating configurations are done by multi-loop processor programmable logic controller. Separation of air into nitrogen free oxygen as raffinate stream and enriched nitrogen as extract stream using 5A zeolite as adsorbent has been chosen as a specific system for implementing the strategy. The philosophy of the typical optimization and process synthesis exercise implemented on the unit is described. The results show the successful implementation of the developed strategy on the two-bed O2-PSA unit and the application of this general approach to commercial PSA processes.