Abstract:
A corrugated structured packing for forming into modules for use in a rectification column, having both high and low corrugations which reduce the contact points when formed into modules, serving to improve mass transfer effectiveness and thus reduce the requisite column height.
Abstract:
A system for re-starting an air separation plant after an interruption in operation wherein descending liquid is collected in a non-operating distillation column and passed back to the separation section of that column before or upon re-start. The invention may employ a collection device situated in the column above the sump. Upon interruption in operation, the collection device accumulates descending liquid. From the collection device, liquid may be passed outside of the column and transferred to a holding vessel to re-inventory internal material of the column upon resumption in operation.
Abstract:
A cryogenic rectification system employing two rectifying sections in parallel within either the lower pressure column of a double column or in a side column, for producing product oxygen at both low and high purity.
Abstract:
The invention comprises a downflow shell and tube condenser, especially useful for cryogenic rectification, which includes a shell having an upper tube sheet and a lower tube sheet, the shell extending above the upper tube sheet to create a first reservoir. A plurality of heat transfer tubes extend between the upper tube sheet and the lower tube sheet and also pass through the lower tube sheet. Cold liquid entering the heat transfer tubes flows down through the tubes and causes a condensation of vapor that is in contact therewith within the shell. The cold liquid is at least partially vaporized and exits from the lowermost ends of the heat transfer tubes.
Abstract:
A cryogenic rectification system and a packing module and column suitable for cryogenic rectification having packing sheets with top and bottom modifications in alternating sequence and preferably having top and bottom edges terminating in planes wherein capacity and mass transfer efficiency is enhanced and mechanical strength is not compromised.
Abstract:
A cryogenic air separation system wherein feed air is initially processed to produce a vapor and a liquid, the vapor is then processed in the rectifying section of a reflux condenser to produce moderate purity nitrogen, and the liquid is processed in the stripping section of the reflux condenser to produce moderate purity oxygen.
Abstract:
A heat exchanger having a first counterflow heat exchange unit with first and second segments wherein a flow of at least one product from a cryogenic air separation unit is channeled in a first direction along both the first and second segments and a second counterflow heat exchange unit is juxtaposed to the second segment of the first counterflow heat exchange unit and receives a flow of feed air which is channeled in a second direction that is counter to the first direction and allows heat exchange between the product and the air. A crossflow subcooling unit is juxtaposed to the first segment and receives at least one process cryogenic liquid from the air separation system for subcooling.