The PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption) cycling process for nitrogen production

based on the adsorption separation of air on a commercial carbon molecular sieve

was systematically studied. Experimental investigation was carried out with a pilot plant packed with BF-CMS of 15kg. Transient axial concentration and temperature profiles were measured with a set of seven probes

respectively

by means of a PC-data gathering system. A mathematical model describing this process was also developed

which included a Linear Drive Force mass transfer equation and a Henry adsorption equilibrium equation. Some of results obtained in a pilot plant (mainly product purity and nitrogen recovery as well as the movement of concentration profile in the adsorption bed during adsorption and purge steps) and comparison between experimental data and results predicted by the model were reported.The reliability of the model was verified and parametric analysis based on the model was completed.The experimental study and numerical simulation showed that for an existing PSA air separation system

a set of specific operating parameters could be found it to obtain optimum performance with the help of numerical simulation.The model could predict the performance of PSA air separation system perfectly.