Simulation based synthesis, design and optimization of pressure swing adsorption (PSA) processes

Process synthesis is one of the important aspects in the design of adsorption processes, especially in the case of pressure swing adsorption (PSA) processes. A process simulator which can help in taking decisions on the number of beds, operating configurations and operating parameters (pressure ratio, cycle step times, flow velocity, feed/purge ratio, etc.) can minimize the necessity of pilot plant studies, resolve commissioning problems and help in optimal operation. This work makes an attempt at simulation based on-line synthesis, design and optimization of PSA processes. A simulation/tuning/optimization software has been developed for PSA processes for multicomponent separation. Adaptive simulation based process synthesis and optimization strategies have been demonstrated using a rigorous simulation (called Process) as an emulation of a flexible PSA plant instead of an actual plant and a less rigorous model as its simulation. The findings based on this study appear to be an effective approach to optimal synthesis, design and optimization of any PSA processes. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.