Abstract:
The aim of this research is to develop the mathematical model for simulating the pressure swing adsorption process and for finding the range of proper operating conditions for pure oxygen production. The mathematical model was developed based on assumptions of ideal plug flow and rapid equilibrium. A set of partial differential equations was developed and was solved by the method of line using Matlab®. The simulation results were compared with those in the literature (Mendes et al, 2000) which employed a linear driving force model. The five variables examined were: adsorption pressure (3, 4.2, 5.1 and 7.1 bar) production flowrate (0.1, 0.55 and 1.05 liters per minute), purge flowrate (0.5, 1.15 and 1.5 liters per minute), cycle time (60, 180 and 240 seconds) and the addition of equalization step. The optimal operating condition was: the adsorption pressure of 7 bar, the production flowrate of 0.1 liters per minute, the purge flowrate of 1.15 liters per minute, the cycle time of 180 seconds with the addition of equalization step. The predicted purity (oxygen plus argon) and recovery were 98.9% and 4.7%, respectively.