EP0538857B2 - Installation for the low temperature separation - Google Patents

Installation for the low temperature separation Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0538857B2
EP0538857B2 EP92118088A EP92118088A EP0538857B2 EP 0538857 B2 EP0538857 B2 EP 0538857B2 EP 92118088 A EP92118088 A EP 92118088A EP 92118088 A EP92118088 A EP 92118088A EP 0538857 B2 EP0538857 B2 EP 0538857B2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
rectification column
tank
liquid
nitrogen
column
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP92118088A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0538857B1 (en
EP0538857A1 (en
Inventor
Wilhelm Dipl.-Ing. Rohde
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Linde GmbH
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Linde GmbH
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    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J3/00—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification
    • F25J3/02—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream
    • F25J3/04—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air
    • F25J3/04763—Start-up or control of the process; Details of the apparatus used
    • F25J3/04769—Operation, control and regulation of the process; Instrumentation within the process
    • F25J3/04854—Safety aspects of operation
    • F25J3/0486—Safety aspects of operation of vaporisers for oxygen enriched liquids, e.g. purging of liquids
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J3/00—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification
    • F25J3/02—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream
    • F25J3/04—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air
    • F25J3/04248—Generation of cold for compensating heat leaks or liquid production, e.g. by Joule-Thompson expansion
    • F25J3/04254—Generation of cold for compensating heat leaks or liquid production, e.g. by Joule-Thompson expansion using the cold stored in external cryogenic fluids
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J3/00—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification
    • F25J3/02—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream
    • F25J3/04—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air
    • F25J3/044—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air using a single pressure main column system only
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J3/00—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification
    • F25J3/02—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream
    • F25J3/04—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air
    • F25J3/04406—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air using a dual pressure main column system
    • F25J3/04412—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air using a dual pressure main column system in a classical double column flowsheet, i.e. with thermal coupling by a main reboiler-condenser in the bottom of low pressure respectively top of high pressure column
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J3/00—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification
    • F25J3/02—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream
    • F25J3/04—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air
    • F25J3/04472—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air using the cold from cryogenic liquids produced within the air fractionation unit and stored in internal or intermediate storages
    • F25J3/04496—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air using the cold from cryogenic liquids produced within the air fractionation unit and stored in internal or intermediate storages for compensating variable air feed or variable product demand by alternating between periods of liquid storage and liquid assist
    • F25J3/04503—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air using the cold from cryogenic liquids produced within the air fractionation unit and stored in internal or intermediate storages for compensating variable air feed or variable product demand by alternating between periods of liquid storage and liquid assist by exchanging "cold" between at least two different cryogenic liquids, e.g. independently from the main heat exchange line of the air fractionation and/or by using external alternating storage systems
    • F25J3/04509—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air using the cold from cryogenic liquids produced within the air fractionation unit and stored in internal or intermediate storages for compensating variable air feed or variable product demand by alternating between periods of liquid storage and liquid assist by exchanging "cold" between at least two different cryogenic liquids, e.g. independently from the main heat exchange line of the air fractionation and/or by using external alternating storage systems within the cold part of the air fractionation, i.e. exchanging "cold" within the fractionation and/or main heat exchange line
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J3/00—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification
    • F25J3/02—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream
    • F25J3/04—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air
    • F25J3/04763—Start-up or control of the process; Details of the apparatus used
    • F25J3/04769—Operation, control and regulation of the process; Instrumentation within the process
    • F25J3/04812—Different modes, i.e. "runs" of operation
    • F25J3/04824—Stopping of the process, e.g. defrosting or deriming; Back-up procedures
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J3/00—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification
    • F25J3/02—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream
    • F25J3/04—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air
    • F25J3/04763—Start-up or control of the process; Details of the apparatus used
    • F25J3/04769—Operation, control and regulation of the process; Instrumentation within the process
    • F25J3/04812—Different modes, i.e. "runs" of operation
    • F25J3/04836—Variable air feed, i.e. "load" or product demand during specified periods, e.g. during periods with high respectively low power costs
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J3/00—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification
    • F25J3/02—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream
    • F25J3/04—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air
    • F25J3/04763—Start-up or control of the process; Details of the apparatus used
    • F25J3/04866—Construction and layout of air fractionation equipments, e.g. valves, machines
    • F25J3/04872—Vertical layout of cold equipments within in the cold box, e.g. columns, heat exchangers etc.
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J3/00—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification
    • F25J3/02—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream
    • F25J3/04—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air
    • F25J3/04763—Start-up or control of the process; Details of the apparatus used
    • F25J3/04866—Construction and layout of air fractionation equipments, e.g. valves, machines
    • F25J3/0489—Modularity and arrangement of parts of the air fractionation unit, in particular of the cold box, e.g. pre-fabrication, assembling and erection, dimensions, horizontal layout "plot"
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J3/00—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification
    • F25J3/02—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream
    • F25J3/04—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air
    • F25J3/04763—Start-up or control of the process; Details of the apparatus used
    • F25J3/04866—Construction and layout of air fractionation equipments, e.g. valves, machines
    • F25J3/04945—Details of internal structure; insulation and housing of the cold box
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J3/00—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification
    • F25J3/02—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream
    • F25J3/04—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream for air
    • F25J3/04763—Start-up or control of the process; Details of the apparatus used
    • F25J3/04866—Construction and layout of air fractionation equipments, e.g. valves, machines
    • F25J3/04951—Arrangements of multiple air fractionation units or multiple equipments fulfilling the same process step, e.g. multiple trains in a network
    • F25J3/04963—Arrangements of multiple air fractionation units or multiple equipments fulfilling the same process step, e.g. multiple trains in a network and inter-connecting equipment within or downstream of the fractionation unit(s)
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J2210/00—Processes characterised by the type or other details of the feed stream
    • F25J2210/42—Nitrogen
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J2250/00—Details related to the use of reboiler-condensers
    • F25J2250/30—External or auxiliary boiler-condenser in general, e.g. without a specified fluid or one fluid is not a primary air component or an intermediate fluid
    • F25J2250/42—One fluid being nitrogen
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J2290/00—Other details not covered by groups F25J2200/00 - F25J2280/00
    • F25J2290/62—Details of storing a fluid in a tank

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a system according to the Preamble of claim 1.
  • An air separation plant and an air separation process are known from EP-B-0 144 430. This is where liquid nitrogen comes in from a storage tank fed the top of the rectification column to to withdraw from this heat. The storage tank is doing this charged with liquid nitrogen from an external source. Storage tank and rectification column are side by side arranged. The storage tank for liquid Nitrogen is isolated by a vacuum container that as usual for tanks for cryogenic liquefied gases, which engages around the outer shell of the storage container.
  • JP-A-61/31872 shows a plant and a method of the type mentioned in the introduction in the rectification column is caused by rectifier trays.
  • the invention is based, which To improve plant of the type mentioned, in particular with regard to the apparatus and operational engineering Effort and the flexibility of their use.
  • This task is characterized by the characteristics of the Claim 1 solved.
  • the system enables considerable cost savings in the manufacture of the system.
  • One separated built rectification column as the state of the Technology corresponds, needed because of the low temperatures in any case, its own elaborate insulation (Cold box). This is expensive to manufacture, moreover a large number of lines (e.g. the Feed line for the liquid tank) through them be performed.
  • the rectification column inside one - needed for the liquid tank anyway - Vacuum container arranged. Your own insulation the rectification column is completely eliminated.
  • the vacuum container must be made a little bigger, if rectification column and tank in it side by side are set up; this compared to the usual vacuum container-tank combination slightly increased effort
  • the cold box saves a lot predominated. All in all, compared to recovering Apparatus parts have a smaller surface, so that the heat incidence without additional measures is minimized. Warmed up when the system is at a standstill the rectifiers are far less strong than one single column.
  • the liquid tank can start early - for example from a tank truck - filled the column is also cooled.
  • the pillar is already at its operating temperature before the Rectification is started at all. Since the Liquid tank filled with nitrogen or an additional one Nitrogen tank is also available immediately Return liquid available: via a feed line liquid nitrogen can flow directly into the column be fed.
  • the invention therefore effects one high flexibility of the system, in particular enables they start very quickly after business interruptions any duration.
  • the vacuum container can handle other cold equipment enclose, for example a heat exchanger, in which the separation air against product flows is cooled, or other storage containers or pillars.
  • the liquid tank is used to hold a liquefied one Air gas; it can be used, for example, as an oxygen or be designed as a nitrogen tank. Usually it contains the main product of the respective system. However, it is also possible, for example one Oxygen system cold in the form of nitrogen from one Supply liquid tank, or vice versa to a nitrogen system in the form of liquid oxygen.
  • the liquid tank From the special training of the liquid tank also depends on the type of connection of the first Feed line with the rectification column from: If, for example the liquid tank to hold nitrogen serves, is the first feed line with the upper one Area of the rectification column connected; vice versa it flows into a system whose liquid tank contains oxygen contains, in the sump of the column. mostly the low pressure column a two-stage column. If the liquid tank trained to store liquefied air the first feed line is in turn connected to the upper one Area of the rectification column, more precisely with one there arranged condenser-evaporator connected.
  • the invention is not based on use limited to exactly one liquid tank. Includes the If, for example, you have two tanks, both can contain the same fraction, for example nitrogen or oxygen; but it can also be advantageous to use different ones Store fractions, for example use one oxygen tank and one nitrogen tank each.
  • system according to the invention is the rectification column arranged inside the liquid tank.
  • liquid product through the feed line into the tank returned or vice versa liquid from the Can be removed, preferably through the Feed line on the detour via the rectification column.
  • the contents of the liquid tank as a cold source can usually be used on other means for refrigeration, such as turbines, waived be that are expensive to buy and before require very high tax and regulatory expenses, generally by highly qualified operators.
  • the system according to the invention can, however can be driven easily fully automatically. It just has to the liquid tank at certain intervals of be filled up outside.
  • the System supplemented by an additional tank, which has a second feed line of the rectification column is connected.
  • the auxiliary tank is preferably in the same vacuum container such as liquid tank and rectification column. There is almost no additional insulation effort on.
  • Cold can come from one or each of the two tanks, depending according to the current fluid level. For example is longer tent possible, increased amount of oxygen to produce, it all depends on the capacity and the initial level of the oxygen tank from; the cold contained in the liquid oxygen becomes stored by the liquefaction of nitrogen. If necessary, the product fraction (in the example oxygen) replenished regularly from the outside and the excess liquid is removed at the same time become.
  • the rectification column is preferably with a Head capacitor equipped. This contains two Groups of passages. The first group of passages is on the input side via the oxygen line the lower area of the rectification column and on the output side connected to an oxygen product line, the second group of passages on the entrance side as on the output side with the upper area of the rectification column.
  • This overhead capacitor is preferred regulated by an upper liquid level regulator, which is an adjustable valve in the first feed line controls. If the liquid level in the condenser falls below a predetermined value, (an additional Amount) liquid nitrogen from the tank to the column fed. Conversely, if the fluid level is very high, in the case of excess power in the pillar, Liquid through the feed line into the nitrogen tank be fed.
  • an upper liquid level regulator which is an adjustable valve in the first feed line controls.
  • an adjustable valve is that of an upper fluid level regulator is controlled at the top capacitor.
  • the cold balance at the top of the column is here about the Throughput of relaxed and evaporating bottom liquid regulated in the top capacitor.
  • the system preferably has another, lower liquid level regulator at the bottom of the Rectification on which an adjustable valve in the Drives oxygen line.
  • a method is also part of the invention for air separation according to claim 10 with the the system according to the invention is operated.
  • the requirements 11 to 15 describe particularly advantageous ones Refinements to this method.
  • FIG. 1 The basic structure of an inventive The system is shown in FIG. 1.
  • she shows a liquid tank 1 for holding nitrogen, in the Interior one - in the embodiment one-stage - rectification column is arranged.
  • the image is not to scale, one with packs Pillar is actually much slimmer than the illustrated.
  • Compressed and cleaned air is piped 3 brought up and in a heat exchanger 4 cooled about dew point temperature.
  • the cold air is blown into the lower area of the rectification column 2.
  • the rectification column 2 is under pressure operated from 4.5 to 12 bar, preferably about 6 bar. It is in the embodiment with two sections 6, 7 equipped by orderly packs. Above the pack sections 6, 7 are each a liquid collector 8, 9 arranged.
  • An oxygen-enriched line can be supplied via an oxygen line 10 Sump liquid can be removed.
  • the branch line 10 ' is only used for emptying of column 2 and top condenser 12 when the System, or for rinsing the top condenser.
  • a nitrogen line 14 carries gaseous Nitrogen as a product through the heat exchanger 4.
  • In the upper area of column 2 there is also an opening first feed line 11, directly into the reservoir of the upper liquid distributor 9. It is used for closing and Removal of liquid nitrogen and connects the interior of rectification column 2 and nitrogen tank 1.
  • a top condenser 12 is used for liquefaction of nitrogen at the top of the rectification column.
  • the tubes indicated in the drawing are to the interior the column 2 open and thus form the nitrogen passages (second group of passages). Outside the tubes (first group of passages) there is oxygen-enriched liquid on the the oxygen line 10 is brought up. It evaporates in indirect heat exchange with condensing Nitrogen. The evaporated fraction is over a Oxygen product line 13 removed and in the heat exchanger 4 warmed against decomposition air 3.
  • Two further devices are connected to the feed line 11: Firstly, an emergency supply line 15 with, for example, an air-heated evaporator 16. This is opened as soon as the pressure in the nitrogen line 14 drops below a predetermined value. Then liquid nitrogen is evaporated in the evaporator 16 and led to the nitrogen line 14 via the emergency supply line.
  • an emergency supply line 15 with, for example, an air-heated evaporator 16.
  • An upper one Liquid level exciter 19 controls the level of the Capacitor 12 and acts on a valve 20 in the Feed line 11 for nitrogen.
  • the fill level of the column sump is by a lower fluid level regulator 21 monitors. This controls another valve 22 in the oxygen line 10.
  • the main difference is one another storage tank, the sump liquid tank 23. This is via a second feed line 24 with the oxygen line 10 connected.
  • the upper fluid level control 19 represents in this embodiment not the flow in the nitrogen feed line 11, but the one in the oxygen line 10 serves the valve 25 between the mouth of the second Feed line 24 of liquid oxygen tank 23 and input of the top capacitor 12 is arranged.
  • FIG. 3 shows an air separation plant, that on oxygen as the main product is aligned.
  • the rectification column 2 is here as a double column with pressure column 201 (operating pressure 5 to 15 bar, preferably about 6 bar) and low pressure column 202 (Operating pressure 1.2 to 7 bar, preferably about 1.5 bar) and intermediate condenser-evaporator 203 trained. Air 3 to be broken down is after cooling in heat exchanger 4 in the lower area of the Pressure column 201 fed in and pre-disassembled there.
  • the Products of pre-decomposition, oxygenated Liquid 204 from the sump and liquid nitrogen 205 from the head of the pressure column 201 are in the low pressure column further separated. Leave as products Oxygen (line 10) and nitrogen (line 14) Low pressure column through the heat exchanger 4.
  • the system can be operated by pressing three valves (20, 206, 207) in the feed line 11 respectively 207 in the connecting lines 204 and 205 controlled between the pressure and low pressure column become.
  • Three such control loops are sufficient to control the To fully automate the system. Of course it must also be ensured that the Liquid tank is refilled at longer intervals.
  • the heat exchanger 4 here is one of the previous examples different arrangement chosen, it is inside the vacuum container 5. in particular Inside the insulating layer that is between Outer wall of the vacuum container and outer Shell of the liquid tank) arranged.
  • the main heat exchanger in the vacuum container also in the systems of the figures 1 and 2 possible.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 Analogous to FIGS. 1 and 2, the system of Figure 3 additionally an emergency supply be connected. About such a device would need liquid from the oxygen tank if necessary 1 evaporates and into the oxygen product line 10 fed. A pressure build-up evaporator can also be used be provided.
  • the flexibility of the system is also improved.
  • the two somewhat smaller tanks can both filled with the same liquid and thus operate practically as a tank; on the other hand you can do the same without major structural changes Equip the system so that the two liquid tanks for Different fractions are suitable, for example one for nitrogen, the other for oxygen or liquid air.

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Abstract

An installation and a process for the low temperature fractionation of air are described. A rectification column (2) is fed with fractionation air via an air pipe (3). It is provided with a nitrogen pipe (14) for the withdrawal of a nitrogen fraction and an oxygen pipe (10) for the withdrawal of an oxygen fraction and a liquid tank (1) for the storage of liquid nitrogen or oxygen, which is enclosed by a vacuum vessel (5). The liquid tank (1) is connected via a first feed pipe (11) to the upper region of the rectification column (2). According to the invention, the liquid tank (1) and the rectification column (2) are arranged in the interior of a shared vacuum vessel (5). <IMAGE>

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Anlage gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 1.The invention relates to a system according to the Preamble of claim 1.

Eine Luftzerlegungsanlage und ein Luftzertegungsverfahren sind aus der EP-B-0 144 430 bekannt. Hier wird flüssiger Stickstoff aus einem Speichertank in den oberen Bereich der Rektifiziersäule eingespeist, um dieser Wärme zu entziehen. Der Speichertank wird dabei aus einer äußeren Quelle mit Flüssigstickstoff beschickt. Spei- chertank und Rektifiziersäule sind nebeneinander angeordnet. Der Speichertank für flüssigen Stickstoff ist durch einen Vakuumbehälter isoliert, der wie bei Tanks für tiefkalte verflüssigte Gase üblich, die äußere Hülle des Speicherbehälters umgreift.An air separation plant and an air separation process are known from EP-B-0 144 430. This is where liquid nitrogen comes in from a storage tank fed the top of the rectification column to to withdraw from this heat. The storage tank is doing this charged with liquid nitrogen from an external source. Storage tank and rectification column are side by side arranged. The storage tank for liquid Nitrogen is isolated by a vacuum container that as usual for tanks for cryogenic liquefied gases, which engages around the outer shell of the storage container.

JP-A-61/31872 zeigt eine Anlage und ein Verfahren der eingangs genannten Art. Der Stoffaustausch in der Rektifiziersäule wird durch Rektifierböden bewirkt.JP-A-61/31872 shows a plant and a method of the type mentioned in the introduction in the rectification column is caused by rectifier trays.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, die Anlage der eingangs genannten Art zu verbessern, insbesondere hinsichtlich des apparativen und betriebstechnischen Aufwands und der Flexibilität ihres Einsatzes.The invention is based, which To improve plant of the type mentioned, in particular with regard to the apparatus and operational engineering Effort and the flexibility of their use.

Diese Aufgabe wird durch die Merkmale des Patentanspruchs 1 gelöst.This task is characterized by the characteristics of the Claim 1 solved.

Durch den geringen Flüssigkeitsinhalt von Pakkungssäulen während des Betriebs kann die Zeitdauer des (Wieder-)Anfahrens der Anlage weiter vermindert werden. Die Flexibilität gegenüber schwankenden Betriebsbedingungen steigt im Vergleich zu einer mit Rektifizierböden ausgestatteten Säule weiter an. Beispielsweise kann die Anlage in einem sehr weiten Lastbereich betrieben werden, zwischen 25% und 100% der Maximallast, wobei der Wirkungsgrad der Rektifiziersäule annähernd konstant bleibt. Selbstverständlich ist es auch möglich, lediglich einen oder mehrere Teilbereiche der Rektifiziersäule mit Packungen zu füllen, während andere beispielsweise konventionelle Böden enthalten.Due to the low liquid content of Packing columns during operation can be the length of time the (re) start-up of the plant is further reduced become. The flexibility to fluctuate Operating conditions increase compared to one column equipped with rectification trays. For example, the plant can be very wide Operated between 25% and 100% of the maximum load, the efficiency of the Rectification column remains approximately constant. Of course it is also possible to have only one or more Sections of the rectification column with packs too fill while others, for example, conventional Floors included.

Die Anlage ermöglicht eine starke Kosteneinsparung bei der Herstellung der Anlage. Eine getrennt aufgebaute Rektifiziersäule, wie sie dem Stand der Technik entspricht, benötigt wegen der tiefen Temperaturen in jedem Fall eine eigene aufwendige Isolierung (Cold box). Diese ist teuer in der Herstellung, außerdem muß eine Vielzahl von Leitungen (beispielsweise die Speiseleitung für den Flüssigtank) durch sie hindurch geführt werden.The system enables considerable cost savings in the manufacture of the system. One separated built rectification column, as the state of the Technology corresponds, needed because of the low temperatures in any case, its own elaborate insulation (Cold box). This is expensive to manufacture, moreover a large number of lines (e.g. the Feed line for the liquid tank) through them be performed.

Gemäß der Erfindung wird die Rektifiziersäule im Inneren eines - ohnehin für den Flüssigtank benötigten - Vakuumbehälters angeordnet. Eine eigene Isolierung der Rektifiziersäule entfällt vollkommen. Der Vakuumbehälter muß zwar etwas größer ausgeführt werden, wenn Rektifiziersäule und Tank in ihm nebeneinander aufgestellt sind; dieser gegenüber der üblichen Vakuumbehälter-Tank-Kombination leicht erhöhte Aufwand wird jedoch durch die Einsparung der Cold box weit überwogen. Insgesamt ergibt sich gegenüber einzeisiehenden Apparateteilen eine geringere Oberfläche, so daß der Wärmeeinfall ohne zusätzliche Maßnahmen minimiert wird. Während eines Stillstands der Anlage erwärmt sich die Rektifiziers weit weniger stark als eine einzelstehende Kolonne.According to the invention, the rectification column inside one - needed for the liquid tank anyway - Vacuum container arranged. Your own insulation the rectification column is completely eliminated. The vacuum container must be made a little bigger, if rectification column and tank in it side by side are set up; this compared to the usual vacuum container-tank combination slightly increased effort However, the cold box saves a lot predominated. All in all, compared to recovering Apparatus parts have a smaller surface, so that the heat incidence without additional measures is minimized. Warmed up when the system is at a standstill the rectifiers are far less strong than one single column.

Der Flüssigtank kann frühzeitig - beispielsweise aus einem Tankwagen - befüllt werden, wobei auch die Säule abgekühlt wird. Die Säule ist also bereits auf ihrer Betriebstemperatur, bevor die Rektifikation überhaupt in Gang gesetzt wird. Da der Flüssigtank mit Stickstoff gefüllt oder ein zusätzlicher Stickstofftank vorhanden ist, steht außerdem sofort Rücklaufflüssigkeit zur Verfügung: über eine Speiseleitung kann flüssiger Stickstoff unmittelbar in die Säule eingespeist werden. Die Erfindung bewirkt daher einer hohe Flexibilität der Anlage, insbesondere ermöglicht sie ein sehr kurzfristigen Anfahren nach Betriebsunterbrechungen beliebiger Dauer.The liquid tank can start early - for example from a tank truck - filled the column is also cooled. The pillar is already at its operating temperature before the Rectification is started at all. Since the Liquid tank filled with nitrogen or an additional one Nitrogen tank is also available immediately Return liquid available: via a feed line liquid nitrogen can flow directly into the column be fed. The invention therefore effects one high flexibility of the system, in particular enables they start very quickly after business interruptions any duration.

Der Vakuumbehälter kann weitere kalte Apparaturen umschließen, beispielsweise einen Wärmetauscher, in dem die Zerlegungsluft gegen Produktströme abgekühlt wird, oder auch weitere Speicherbehälter oder Säulen.The vacuum container can handle other cold equipment enclose, for example a heat exchanger, in which the separation air against product flows is cooled, or other storage containers or pillars.

Der Flüssigtankdient zur Aufnahme eines verflüssigten Luftgases; er kann beispielsweise als Sauerstoff- oder als Stickstofftank ausgebildet sein. In der Regel enthält er das Hauptprodukt der jeweiligen Anlage. Allerdings ist es auch möglich, beispielsweise einer Sauerstoffanlage Kälte in Form von Stickstoff aus einem Flüssigtank zuzuführen, oder umgekehrt einer Stickstoffanlage in Form von Flüssigsauerstoff.The liquid tank is used to hold a liquefied one Air gas; it can be used, for example, as an oxygen or be designed as a nitrogen tank. Usually it contains the main product of the respective system. However, it is also possible, for example one Oxygen system cold in the form of nitrogen from one Supply liquid tank, or vice versa to a nitrogen system in the form of liquid oxygen.

Von der speziellen Ausbildung des Flüssigtanks hängt auch die Art der Verbindung der ersten Speiseleitung mit der Rektifiziersäule ab: Falls beispielsweise der Flüssigtank zur Aufnahme von Stickstoff dient, ist die erste Speiseleitung mit dem oberen Bereich der Rektifiziersäule verbunden; umgekehrt mündet sie bei einer Anlage, deren Flüssigtank Sauerstoff enthält, in den Sumpf der Säule. meist der Niederdrucksäule einer zweistufigen Kolonne. Falls der Flüssigtank zur Speicherung verflüssigter Luft ausgebildet ist, wird die erste Speiseleitung wiederum mit dem oberen Bereich der Rektifiziersäule, genauer mit einem dort angeordneten Kondensator-Verdampfer verbunden.From the special training of the liquid tank also depends on the type of connection of the first Feed line with the rectification column from: If, for example the liquid tank to hold nitrogen serves, is the first feed line with the upper one Area of the rectification column connected; vice versa it flows into a system whose liquid tank contains oxygen contains, in the sump of the column. mostly the low pressure column a two-stage column. If the liquid tank trained to store liquefied air the first feed line is in turn connected to the upper one Area of the rectification column, more precisely with one there arranged condenser-evaporator connected.

Die Erfindung ist jedoch nicht auf die Verwendung genau eines Flüssigtanks beschränkt. Umfaßt die Anlage beispielsweise zwei Tanks, so können beide die gleiche Fraktion enthalten, beispielsweise Stickstoff oder Sauerstoff; es kann aber auch vorteilhaft sein, verschiedene Fraktionen zuspeichern, also beispielsweise je einen Sauerstofftank und Stickstofftank einzusetzen.However, the invention is not based on use limited to exactly one liquid tank. Includes the If, for example, you have two tanks, both can contain the same fraction, for example nitrogen or oxygen; but it can also be advantageous to use different ones Store fractions, for example use one oxygen tank and one nitrogen tank each.

In einer besonders günstigen Ausgestaltung der erfindungsgemäßen Anlage ist die Rektifiziersäule im Inneren des Flüssigtanks angeordnet.In a particularly favorable embodiment the system according to the invention is the rectification column arranged inside the liquid tank.

Entgegen vieler Bedenken gegenüber einer derartigen Konstruktion hat sich diese Variante der Erfindung als besonders vorteilhaft erwiesen. Hierbei kann eine übliche Vakuumbehälterkonstruktion, die den Mantel des Stickstofftanks relativ eng umschließt, verwendet werden. Die Säule ist in den im Tank gespeicherten Flüssigstickstoff eingetaucht, wird also auch während Betriebsunterbrechungen auf tiefer Temperatur gehalten. Etwaige Kälteverluste können durch Verdampfen geringer Mengen des Tankinhalts kompensiert werden.Contrary to many concerns about one Such a construction of this variant of the invention proven to be particularly advantageous. in this connection can be a common vacuum container design that the Encloses the envelope of the nitrogen tank relatively tight, used become. The column is in the stored in the tank Liquid nitrogen is also immersed during downtimes at low temperature held. Any loss of cold can be caused by evaporation small amounts of the tank content compensated become.

Dies erweist sich als fundamentaler Vorteil beim Anfahren der Anlage This proves to be a fundamental advantage when starting the system

Je nach momentan benötigter Produktmenge kann Flüssigprodukt über die Speiseleitung in den Tank zurückgeführt oder umgekehrt Flüssigkeit aus dem Tank entnommen werden, vorzugsweise durch die Speiseleitung auf dem Umweg über die Rektifiziersäule.Depending on the amount of product currently required can liquid product through the feed line into the tank returned or vice versa liquid from the Can be removed, preferably through the Feed line on the detour via the rectification column.

Wenn der Inhalt des Flüssigtanks als Kältequelle benutzt wird, kann in der Regel auf andere Mittel zur Kälteerzeugung, beispielsweise Turbinen, verzichtet werden, die teuer in der Anschaffung sind und vor allem sehr hohen Steuer- und Regelaufwand erfordern, im allgemeinen durch hochqualifiziertes Bedienungspersonal. Die erfindungsgemäße Anlage kann dagegen leicht vollautomatisch gefahren werden. Dabei muß lediglich der Flüssigtank in gewissen Zeitabständen von außen aufgefüllt werden.If the contents of the liquid tank as a cold source can usually be used on other means for refrigeration, such as turbines, waived be that are expensive to buy and before require very high tax and regulatory expenses, generally by highly qualified operators. The system according to the invention can, however can be driven easily fully automatically. It just has to the liquid tank at certain intervals of be filled up outside.

Bei vielen Luftzerlegungsanlagen muß eine Notversorgung für den Fall von Betriebsunterbrechungen vorgesehen werden. Ein großer Flüssigtank für die Produktfraktion ist daher häufig ohnehin vorhanden, so daß sich für die Erfindung auf natürliche Weise ein weiter Anwendungsbereich eröffnet.In many air separation plants, one Emergency care in the event of business interruptions be provided. A large liquid tank for those Product fraction is therefore often present anyway that for the invention a natural one Scope opened.

In einer besonders günstigen Variante wird die Anlage durch einen Zusatztank ergänzt, der über eine zweite Speiseleitung der Rektifiziersäule verbunden ist. Der Zusatztank ist vorzugsweise im selben Vakuumbehälter wie Flüssigtank und Rektifiziersäule untergebracht. Es fällt damit fast kein zusätzlicher Isolierungsaufwand an.In a particularly inexpensive variant, the System supplemented by an additional tank, which has a second feed line of the rectification column is connected. The auxiliary tank is preferably in the same vacuum container such as liquid tank and rectification column. There is almost no additional insulation effort on.

Die Anlage wird dadurch zu einer echten Wechselspeicheranlage. Bei einer erfindungsgemäßen Anlage zur Gewinnung von Stickstoff, die als Einsäulen-Luftzerleger ausgebildet ist, könnte beispielsweise der Zusatztank als Sumpfflüssigkeittank betrieben werden; die zweite Speiseleitung wäre in diesem Fall mit dem unteren Bereich der Rektifiziersäule verbunden. Denkbar wären außerdem andere Arten von Wechselspeicherverlahren, auch solche mit Doppelsäule und/oder als Stickstofftank betriebenem Zusatztank. Bei konstant bleibender Luftmenge ist damit ein Lastbereich von etwa 2% bis 180% bezogen auf die Produktmenge erreichbar. Zur allgemeinen Funktionsweise derartiger Verfahren sei auf die DE-B-12 50 848 verwiesen. Dabei ist es bei einer erfindungsgemäßen Anlage mit zwei Tanks nicht notwendig, innerhalb des Verfahrens Kälte (beispielsweise durch arbeitsleistende Entspannung von Prozeßströmen) zu erzeugen. Kälte kann aus einem oder jedem der beiden Tanks zugeführt werden, je nach momentanem Flüssigkeitsstand. Zum Beispiel ist es längere Zelt möglich, eine erhöhte Sauerstoffmenge zu produzieren, dies hängt ledigleich von der Kapazität und dem anfänglichen Füllstand des Sauerstofftanks ab; die im flüssigen Sauerstoff enthaltene Kälte wird dabei durch die Verflüssigung von Stickstoff gespeichert. Notfalls kann die Produktfraktion (im Beispiel Sauerstoff) regelmäßig durch von außen nachgefüllt und gleichzeitig die überschüssige Flüssigkeit abtransportiert werden.This makes the system a real one Removable storage system. In an inventive Plant for the production of nitrogen, which acts as a single-column air separator is trained, for example Additional tank operated as sump liquid tank; in this case the second feed line would be the connected lower area of the rectification column. Conceivable would also be other types of removable storage also those with a double column and / or auxiliary tank operated as a nitrogen tank. At constant remaining air volume is a load range of approximately 2% to 180% of the product quantity achievable. For the general functioning of such The procedure is referred to DE-B-12 50 848. there it is in a system according to the invention with two Tanks not necessary within the cold process (for example through work-related relaxation of process streams). Cold can come from one or each of the two tanks, depending according to the current fluid level. For example is longer tent possible, increased amount of oxygen to produce, it all depends on the capacity and the initial level of the oxygen tank from; the cold contained in the liquid oxygen becomes stored by the liquefaction of nitrogen. If necessary, the product fraction (in the example oxygen) replenished regularly from the outside and the excess liquid is removed at the same time become.

Insbesondere bei der Anwendung der Erfindung auf eine Luftzerlegungsanlage zur Gewinnung von Stickstoff ist es günstig, wenn der Flüssigtank als Stickstofftank ausgebildet ist und die erste Speiseleitung mit dem oberen Bereich der Rektifiziersäule verbunden ist.In particular when using the invention to an air separation plant for the extraction of Nitrogen is beneficial if the liquid tank is used as a nitrogen tank is formed and the first feed line with connected to the upper area of the rectification column.

Vorzugsweise ist die Rektifiziersäule mit einem Kopfkondensator ausgestattet. Dieser enthält zwei Gruppen von Passagen. Die erste Gruppe von Passagen ist eingangsseitig über die Sauerstoffleitung mit dem unteren Bereich der Rektifiziersäule und ausgangsseitig mit einer Sauerstoffproduktleitung verbunden, die zweite Gruppe von Passagen eingangsseitig wie ausgangsseitig mit dem oberen Bereich der Rektifiziersäule.The rectification column is preferably with a Head capacitor equipped. This contains two Groups of passages. The first group of passages is on the input side via the oxygen line the lower area of the rectification column and on the output side connected to an oxygen product line, the second group of passages on the entrance side as on the output side with the upper area of the rectification column.

Durch indirekten Wärmeaustausch mit entspannter Sumpfflüssigkeit kann damit Stickstoff am Kopf der Rektifiziersäule kondensiert und als Rücklauf der Säule oder zur Speicherung dem Stickstofftank zugeführt werden.Through indirect heat exchange with more relaxed Bottom liquid can therefore nitrogen on Head of the rectification column condensed and used as reflux fed to the column or to the nitrogen tank for storage become.

Dieser Kopfkondensator wird vorzugsweise durch einen oberen Flüssigkeitsstandregler geregelt, der ein einstellbares Ventil in der ersten Speiseleitung ansteuert. Falls der Flüssigkeitsstand im Kondensator unter einen vorbestimmten Wert absinkt, wird (eine zusätzliche Menge) Flüssigstickstoff vom Tank in die Säule eingespeist. Umgekehrt kann bei sehr hohem Flüssigkeitsstand, also bei KäfteGberschuß in der Säule, Flüssigkeit über die Speiseleitung in den Stickstofftank eingespeist werden.This overhead capacitor is preferred regulated by an upper liquid level regulator, which is an adjustable valve in the first feed line controls. If the liquid level in the condenser falls below a predetermined value, (an additional Amount) liquid nitrogen from the tank to the column fed. Conversely, if the fluid level is very high, in the case of excess power in the pillar, Liquid through the feed line into the nitrogen tank be fed.

Bei einer echten Wechselspeicheranlage mündet in der Regel die mit dem Sumpfflüssigkeitstank verbundene zweite Speiseleitung in die Sauerstoffleitung. In diesem Fall ist es günstig, wenn in der Sauerstoffleitung zwischen Mündung der zweiten Speiseleitung und Kopfkondensator ein einstellbares Ventil angeordnet ist, das von einem oberen Flüssigkeitsstandregler am Kopfkondensator angesteuert wird. Die Kältebilanz am Kopf der Säule wird hier also über den Durchsatz von entspannter und verdampfender Sumpfflüssigkeit im Kopfkondensator geregelt.With a real removable storage system usually ends with the sump liquid tank connected second feed line into the oxygen line. In this case it is convenient if in the oxygen line between the mouth of the second feed line and head condenser arranged an adjustable valve is that of an upper fluid level regulator is controlled at the top capacitor. The cold balance at the top of the column is here about the Throughput of relaxed and evaporating bottom liquid regulated in the top capacitor.

Unabhängig von der Regelung am Kopfkondensator weist die Anlage vorzugsweise einen weiteren, unteren Flüssigkeitsstandregler am Sumpf der Rektifizisrsäute auf, der ein einstellbares Ventil in der Sauerstoffleitung ansteuert.Regardless of the control on the top capacitor the system preferably has another, lower liquid level regulator at the bottom of the Rectification on which an adjustable valve in the Drives oxygen line.

Zwei einfache Regelkreise, die vollständig automatisiert werden können, reichen aus, um die erfindungsgemäße Anlage stabil und wirtschaftlich zu betreiben. Für die Regelung am Kopf der Säule sind dabei die beiden oben erwähnten Varianten möglich. Sobald Zerlegungslutt in die Säule einströmt sorgen die beiden Regelkreise dafür, daß sich ohne Eingriff von außen ein stationärer Zustand ausbildet. Auf Schwankungen der Luftzufuhr und/oder der Produktabnahme innerhalb des - sehr weiten - Lastbereichs stellt sich die Anlage selbsttätig in kürzester Zeit ein.Two simple control loops that are fully automated can be sufficient to the invention To operate the plant stably and economically. For the regulation at the top of the column are the possible in both variants mentioned above. As soon as decomposition lutt The two control loops flow into the column making sure that there is no outside intervention trains steady state. On fluctuations in Air supply and / or product acceptance within the - very wide - load range, the system turns itself in no time.

Insbesondere bei einer erfindungsgemäß ausgestalteten Sauerstoffanlage ist es vorteilhaft. wenn der Flüssigtank als Sauerstofftank und die Rektifiziersäule als Doppelsäule, umfassend eine Drucksäule und eine Niederdrucksäule, ausgebildet sind und daß die erste Speiseleitung mit dem unteren Bereich der Niederdrucksäule verbunden ist. Flüssiger Sauerstoff kann damit dem Sumpf der Niederdrucksäule zugeführt und damit Kälte in die Rektifiziersäule eingebracht werden. Geregelt wird die Flüssigkeitszuspeisung aus dem Tank über den Flüssigkeitsstand am Sumpf der Niederdrucksäule: Sinkt aufgrund erhöhen Bedarfs der Flüssigkeitsstand ab, wird die fehlende Flüssigkeit über die ersten Speiseleitung aus dem Flüssigtank ergänzt.In particular in the case of a design according to the invention Oxygen system it is beneficial. if the Liquid tank as an oxygen tank and the rectification column as a double column, comprising a pressure column and a Low pressure column, are formed and that the first Feed line with the lower area of the low pressure column connected is. Liquid oxygen can use it fed to the bottom of the low pressure column and thus Cold be introduced into the rectification column. controlled the liquid feed from the tank about the liquid level at the bottom of the low pressure column: The fluid level drops due to increased demand starting, the missing liquid will be over the first Feed line from the liquid tank added.

Teil der Erfindung ist außerdem ein Verfahren zur Luftzerlegung gemäß Patentanspruch 10 mit dem die erfindungsgemäße Anlage betrieben wird. Die Ansprüche 11 bis 15 beschreiben besonders vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen dieses Verfahrens.A method is also part of the invention for air separation according to claim 10 with the the system according to the invention is operated. The requirements 11 to 15 describe particularly advantageous ones Refinements to this method.

Die Erfindung wird im folgenden anhand zweier in den Zeichnungen schematisch dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiele näher erläutert. Hierbei zeigen:

Figur 1
eine erste Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Anlage zur Gewinnung von Stickstoff mit einem einzigen Tank,
Figur 2
eine zweite Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemäßen Stickstoffanlage mit zwei Flüssigtanks und
Figur 3
ein Ausführungsbeispiel für eine nicht erfindungsgemäße Luftzerlegungsanlage zur Gewinnung von Sauerstoff.
The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to two exemplary embodiments schematically illustrated in the drawings. Here show:
Figure 1
a first embodiment of the plant according to the invention for the production of nitrogen with a single tank,
Figure 2
a second embodiment of a nitrogen system according to the invention with two liquid tanks and
Figure 3
an embodiment of an air separation plant for the production of oxygen not according to the invention.

Der grundsätzliche Aufbau einer erfindungsgemäßen Anlage ist aus Figur 1 ersichtlich. Sie zeigt einen Flüssigtank 1 zur Aufnahme von Stickstoff, in dessen Innenraum eine - in dem Ausführungsbeispiel einstufige - Rektifiziersäule angeordnet ist. Die Abbildung ist nicht maßstabsgetreu, eine mit Packungen ausgestattete Säule ist in Wirklichkeit wesentlich schlanker als die dargestellte.The basic structure of an inventive The system is shown in FIG. 1. she shows a liquid tank 1 for holding nitrogen, in the Interior one - in the embodiment one-stage - rectification column is arranged. The image is not to scale, one with packs Pillar is actually much slimmer than the illustrated.

Verdichtete und gereinigte Luft wird über Leitung 3 herangeführt und in einem Wärmetauscher 4 auf etwa Taupunktstemperatur abgekühlt. Die kalte Luft wird in den unteren Bereich der Rektifiziersäule 2 eingeblasen.Compressed and cleaned air is piped 3 brought up and in a heat exchanger 4 cooled about dew point temperature. The cold air is blown into the lower area of the rectification column 2.

Die Rektifiziersäule 2 wird unter einem Druck von 4,5 bis 12 bar, vorzugsweise etwa 6 bar betrieben. Sie ist in dem Ausführungsbeispiel mit zwei Abschnitten 6, 7 von geordneten Packungen ausgestattet. Oberhalb der Packungsabschnitte 6, 7 ist je ein Flüssigkeitssammler 8, 9 angeordnet.The rectification column 2 is under pressure operated from 4.5 to 12 bar, preferably about 6 bar. It is in the embodiment with two sections 6, 7 equipped by orderly packs. Above the pack sections 6, 7 are each a liquid collector 8, 9 arranged.

Über eine Sauerstoffleitung 10 kann sauerstoffangereicherte Sumpfflüssigkeit entnommen werden. (Die Zweigleitung 10' dient lediglich zur Entleerung von Säule 2 und Kopfkondensator 12 beim Abfahren der Anlage, beziehungsweise zum Spülen des Kopfkondensators.) Eine Stickstoffleitung 14 führt gasförmigen Stickstoff als Produkt durch den Wärmetauscher 4 ab. Im oberen Bereich der Säule 2 mündet außerdem eine erste Speiseleitung 11, und zwar direkt in das Reservoir des oberen Flüssigkeitsverteilers 9. Sie dient zur Zuund Abfuhr von Flüssigstickstoff und verbindet die Innenräume von Rektifiziersäule 2 und Stickstofftank 1.An oxygen-enriched line can be supplied via an oxygen line 10 Sump liquid can be removed. (The branch line 10 'is only used for emptying of column 2 and top condenser 12 when the System, or for rinsing the top condenser.) A nitrogen line 14 carries gaseous Nitrogen as a product through the heat exchanger 4. In the upper area of column 2 there is also an opening first feed line 11, directly into the reservoir of the upper liquid distributor 9. It is used for closing and Removal of liquid nitrogen and connects the interior of rectification column 2 and nitrogen tank 1.

Ein Kopfkondensator 12 dient zur Verflüssigung von Stickstoff am Kopf der Rektifiziersäule. Die in der Zeichnung angedeuteten Röhren sind zum Innenraum der Säule 2 hin offen und bilden somit die Stickstoffpassagen (zweite Gruppe von Passagen). Im Auβenraum der Röhren (erste Gruppe von Passagen) steht sauerstoffangereicherte Flüssigkeit an, die über die Sauerstoffleitung 10 herangeführt wird. Sie verdampft in indirektem Wärmetausch mit kondensierendem Stickstoff. Die verdampfte Fraktion wird über eine Sauerstoffproduktleitung 13 abgeführt und im Wärmetauscher 4 gegen Zerlegungsluft 3 angewärmt.A top condenser 12 is used for liquefaction of nitrogen at the top of the rectification column. In the tubes indicated in the drawing are to the interior the column 2 open and thus form the nitrogen passages (second group of passages). Outside the tubes (first group of passages) there is oxygen-enriched liquid on the the oxygen line 10 is brought up. It evaporates in indirect heat exchange with condensing Nitrogen. The evaporated fraction is over a Oxygen product line 13 removed and in the heat exchanger 4 warmed against decomposition air 3.

An die Speiseleitung 11 sind zwei weitere Einrichtungen angeschlossen:
Zum einen eine Notversorgungsleitung 15 mit einem beispielsweise luftbeheizten Verdampfer 16. Diese wird geöffnet, sobald der Druck in der Stickstoffleitung 14 unter einen vorbestimmten Wert absinkt. Dann wird Flüssigstickstoff im Verdampfer 16 verdampft und über die Notversorgungsleitung zur Stickstoffleitung 14 geführt.Two further devices are connected to the feed line 11:
Firstly, an emergency supply line 15 with, for example, an air-heated evaporator 16. This is opened as soon as the pressure in the nitrogen line 14 drops below a predetermined value. Then liquid nitrogen is evaporated in the evaporator 16 and led to the nitrogen line 14 via the emergency supply line.

Außerdem ist zur Aufrechterhaltung eines vom Füllstand unabhängigen Drucks im Stickstofftank ein Druckaufbaukreislauf 17 mit einem Druckaufbauverdampfer 18 vorgesehen.In addition, to maintain one of the Level of independent pressure in the nitrogen tank Pressure build-up circuit 17 with a pressure build-up evaporator 18 provided.

Zur vollautomatischen Regelung der gesamten Anlage reichen zwei Regelkreise aus. Ein oberer Flüssigkeitsstandregter 19 kontrolliert den Füllstand des Kopfkondensators 12 und wirkt auf ein Ventil 20 in der Speiseleitung 11 für Stickstoff. Der Füllstand des Säulensumpfes wird durch einen unteren Flüssigkeitsstandregler 21 überwacht. Dieser steuert ein weiteres Ventil 22 in der Sauerstoffleitung 10.For fully automatic control of the entire Two control loops are sufficient. An upper one Liquid level exciter 19 controls the level of the Capacitor 12 and acts on a valve 20 in the Feed line 11 for nitrogen. The fill level of the column sump is by a lower fluid level regulator 21 monitors. This controls another valve 22 in the oxygen line 10.

Die Wechselspeicheranlage von Figur 2 ist in weiten Teilen identisch mit dem in Figur 1 gezeigten Ausführungsbeispiel. Es werden daher nur die abweichenden Merkmale näher erläutert.The removable storage system of Figure 2 is in largely identical to that shown in Figure 1 Embodiment. Therefore, only the deviating ones Features explained in more detail.

Der wesentliche Unterschied besteht in einem weiteren Speichertank, dem Sumpfflüssigkeitstank 23. Dieser ist über eine zweite Speiseleitung 24 mit der Sauerstoffleitung 10 verbunden. Die obere Flüssigkeitsstandregelung 19' stellt in diesem Ausführungsbeispiel nicht den Durchfluß in der Stickstoff-Speiseleitung 11, sondern denjenigen in der Sauerstoffleitung 10. Dazu dient das Ventil 25, das zwischen Mündung der zweiten Speiseleitung 24 von Flüssigsauerstofftank 23 und Eingang des Kopfkondensators 12 angeordnet ist. The main difference is one another storage tank, the sump liquid tank 23. This is via a second feed line 24 with the oxygen line 10 connected. The upper fluid level control 19 'represents in this embodiment not the flow in the nitrogen feed line 11, but the one in the oxygen line 10 serves the valve 25 between the mouth of the second Feed line 24 of liquid oxygen tank 23 and input of the top capacitor 12 is arranged.

Wie bei Wechselspeicherverfahren üblich, wird bei unterdurchschnittlichem Produktbedarf die Luftmenge im wesentlichen konstant gehalten. Die überschüssigen Produkte werden dann in die Tanks 1, 23 geleitet, von wo sie bei überdurchschnittlicher Last wieder in die Säule 2 zurückgespeist werden.As usual with removable storage methods, with below-average product requirements Air volume kept essentially constant. The excess products are then placed in tanks 1, 23 headed from where they are above average load be fed back into column 2.

Figur 3 zeigt eine Luftzerlegungsanlage, die auf Sauerstoff als Hauptprodukt ausgerichtet Ist. Die Rektifiziersäule 2 ist hier als Doppelsäule mit Drucksäule 201 (Betriebsdruck 5 bis 15 bar, vorzugsweise etwa 6 bar) und Niederdrucksäule 202 (Betriebsdruck 1,2 bis 7 bar, vorzugsweise etwa 1,5 bar) und dazwischenliegendem Kondensator-Verdampfer 203 ausgebildet. Zu zerlegende Luft 3 wird nach Abkühlung in Wärmetauscher 4 in den unteren Bereich der Drucksäule 201 eingespeist und dort vorzerlegt. Die Produkte der Vorzerlegung, sauerstoffangereicherte Flüssigkeit 204 vom Sumpf und flüssiger Stickstoff 205 vom Kopf der Drucksäule 201 werden in der Niederdrucksäule weiter getrennt. Als Produkte verlassen Sauerstoff (Leitung 10) und Stickstoff (Leitung 14) die Niederdrucksäule durch den Wärmetauscher 4.FIG. 3 shows an air separation plant, that on oxygen as the main product is aligned. The rectification column 2 is here as a double column with pressure column 201 (operating pressure 5 to 15 bar, preferably about 6 bar) and low pressure column 202 (Operating pressure 1.2 to 7 bar, preferably about 1.5 bar) and intermediate condenser-evaporator 203 trained. Air 3 to be broken down is after cooling in heat exchanger 4 in the lower area of the Pressure column 201 fed in and pre-disassembled there. The Products of pre-decomposition, oxygenated Liquid 204 from the sump and liquid nitrogen 205 from the head of the pressure column 201 are in the low pressure column further separated. Leave as products Oxygen (line 10) and nitrogen (line 14) Low pressure column through the heat exchanger 4.

Die Anlage kann durch die Betätigung von nur drei Ventilen (20, 206, 207) in der- Speiseleitung 11 beziehungsweise 207 in den Verbindungsleitungen 204 und 205 zwischen Druck- und Niederdrucksäule gesteuert werden. Durch die Messung der Flüssigkeitsstände in den Sümpfen von Druck- und Niederdrucksäule wird die Abfuhr (Ventil 206) beziehungsweise Zufuhr (Ventil 20) von Flüssigkeit an der jeweiligen Stelle eingestellt: die Einspeisung von Stickstoff 205 von der Drucksäule 201 in die Niederdrucksäule 202 wird in der Regel durch die Konzentration in der Drucksäule 201 gesteuert, die vorzugsweise am Kopf der Säule gemessen wird. Drei derartige Regelkreise genügen, um die Anlage vollständig zu automatisieren. Selbstverständlich muß dabei zusätzlich sichergestellt werden, daß der Flüssigtank in längeren Zeitabständen nachgefüllt wird.The system can be operated by pressing three valves (20, 206, 207) in the feed line 11 respectively 207 in the connecting lines 204 and 205 controlled between the pressure and low pressure column become. By measuring the liquid levels in the swamps of the pressure and low pressure column becomes the discharge (valve 206) or supply (Valve 20) of liquid at the respective point discontinued: the supply of nitrogen 205 from the Pressure column 201 in the low pressure column 202 is in the Usually by the concentration in the pressure column 201 controlled, preferably measured at the top of the column becomes. Three such control loops are sufficient to control the To fully automate the system. Of course it must also be ensured that the Liquid tank is refilled at longer intervals.

Für den Wärmetauscher 4 ist hier eine von den vorhergehenden Beispielen abweichende Anordnung gewählt, er ist im Inneren des Vakuumbehälters 5. insbesondere Inneren der Isolierschicht das heißt zwischen Außenwand des Vakuumbehälters und äußerer Hülle des Flüssigtanks) angeordnet. Selbstverständlich ist ein derartiger Einbau des Hauptwärmetauschers in den Vakuumbehälter auch bei den Anlagen der Figuren 1 und 2 möglich.For the heat exchanger 4 here is one of the previous examples different arrangement chosen, it is inside the vacuum container 5. in particular Inside the insulating layer that is between Outer wall of the vacuum container and outer Shell of the liquid tank) arranged. Of course is such an installation of the main heat exchanger in the vacuum container also in the systems of the figures 1 and 2 possible.

Analog zu den Figuren 1 und 2 kann auch bei der Anlage von Figur 3 zusätzlich eine Notversorgung angeschlossen sein. Über eine derartige Vorrichtung würde im Bedarfsfall Flüssigkeit aus dem Sauerstofftank 1 verdampft und in die Sauerstoffproduktleitung 10 eingespeist. Ebenso kann ein Druckaufbauverdampfer vorgesehen sein.Analogous to FIGS. 1 and 2, the system of Figure 3 additionally an emergency supply be connected. About such a device would need liquid from the oxygen tank if necessary 1 evaporates and into the oxygen product line 10 fed. A pressure build-up evaporator can also be used be provided.

Abweichend von der in den Zeichnungen dargestellte Anordnung einer Einzel- oder Doppelsäule innerhalb eines Flüssigtanks, kann auch eine weitere Variante sinnvoll sein. Anstelle eines relativ niedrigen Tanks, der praktisch den gesamten Innenquerschnitt des Vakuumbehälters ausfüllt, werden zwei relativ hohe, aber schlanke Tanks eingebaut. deren Durchmesser kleiner als der halbe Innendurchmesser des Vakuumbehälters ist. Die ohnehin schlanke Rektifiziersäule (die im Falle einer Doppelsäule auch relativ hoch ist), findet ebenso wie der oder die Wärmetauscher ausreichend Platz neben den beiden Tanks. Dabei werden außerdem die konstruktiven Schwierigkeiten mit Zu- und Abfahrleitungen zu Rektifiziersäule und Wärmetauscher wesentlich verringert.Deviating from that shown in the drawings Arrangement of a single or double column within a liquid tank, can also be another variant make sense. Instead of a relatively low one Tanks that cover practically the entire internal cross section of the vacuum container, two relatively high, but slim tanks built in. their diameter smaller than half the inner diameter of the vacuum container is. The already slim rectification column (the is also relatively high in the case of a double column) just like the one or more heat exchangers Space next to the two tanks. It will also the constructive difficulties with supply and exit lines to rectification column and heat exchanger significantly reduced.

Auch die Flexibilität der Anlage wird verbessert. Die beiden etwas kleineren Tanks können nämlich sowohl mit der gleichen Flüssigkeit gefüllt und damit praktisch als ein Tank betrieben werden; andererseits kann man ohne große bauliche Veränderungen dieselbe Anlage so ausstatten, daß die zwei Flüssigtanks zur Aufnahme verschiedener Fraktionen geeignet sind, beispielsweise einer für Stickstoff, der andere für Sauerstoff oder Flüssigluft.The flexibility of the system is also improved. The two somewhat smaller tanks can both filled with the same liquid and thus operate practically as a tank; on the other hand you can do the same without major structural changes Equip the system so that the two liquid tanks for Different fractions are suitable, for example one for nitrogen, the other for oxygen or liquid air.

Claims (15)

  1. Plant for the low-temperature fractionation of air, having a rectification column (2) which is connected to an air line (3) for feeding fractionation air, to a nitrogen line (14) for taking off a nitrogen fraction and to an oxygen line (10) for taking off an oxygen fraction, and having a liquid tank (1) which is connected via a first feed line (11) to the rectification column (2), in which case the liquid tank (1) and the rectification column (2) are disposed in the interior of a shared vacuum vessel (5), the liquid tank (1) is constructed as a nitrogen tank or an additional nitrogen tank is present and the first feed line (11) or a feed line connected to the additional nitrogen tank is connected to the upper region of the rectification column (2), characterized in that the rectification column (2) contains arranged packings or random packing elements and in that the apparatus has control means for feeding liquid nitrogen through the feed line (27) which is connected to the upper region of the rectification column (2) directly into the rectification column (2) during start-up after an interruption in operation.
  2. Plant according to Claim 1, characterized in that the rectification column (2) is disposed in the interior of the liquid tank (1).
  3. Plant according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the rectification column (2) contains arranged packings (6, 7).
  4. Plant according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized by an additional tank (23) which is connected via a second feed line, (24) to the rectification column (2).
  5. Plant according to one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized by a top condenser (12) having two groups of passages, in which case the first group of passages is connected on the inlet side by the oxygen line (10) to the lower region of the rectification column (2) and on the outlet side to an oxygen product line (13) and the second group of passages is connected on the inlet side as on the outlet side to the upper region of the rectification column (2).
  6. Plant according to Claim 5, characterized by an upper liquid level controller (19) at the top condenser (12), which liquid level controller triggers an adjustable valve (20) in the first feed line (11).
  7. Plant according to Claim 4 and according to one of Claims 5 or 6, characterized in that the second feed line (24) opens into the oxygen line (10) and that it has an upper liquid level controller (19') at the top condenser (12), which liquid level controller triggers an adjustable valve (25) which is disposed in the oxygen line (10) between the opening of the second feed line (24) and top condenser (12).
  8. Plant according to one of Claims 1 to 7, characterized by a lower liquid level controller (21) at the bottom of the rectification column (2), which liquid level controller triggers an adjustable valve (22) in the oxygen line (10).
  9. Plant according to one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the liquid tank (1) is constructed as an oxygen tank and the rectification column (2) is constructed as a double column which comprises a pressure column (201) and a low-pressure column (202), and in that the first feed line (11) is connected to the lower region of the low-pressure column (202).
  10. Process for the low-temperature fractionation of air, in which the fractionation air (3) is fed to a rectification column (2) and a nitrogen fraction (14) and an oxygen fraction (10) are taken off from the rectification column (2) and in which cold is supplied to the rectification in the form of a liquefied atmospheric gas from a vacuum-insulated liquid tank (1), in which case the liquid tank (1) and the rectification column (2) are disposed in the interior of a shared vacuum vessel (5), the liquid tank (1) is constructed as a nitrogen tank and the liquid tank (1) or an additional nitrogen tank is connected to the upper region of the rectification column (2) via a feed line (11), characterized in that the mass transfer in the rectification column (2) is effected at least in part by arranged packings and/or random packing elements, and in that, during start-up after an interruption in operation, liquid nitrogen is fed directly into the rectification column (2) via the feed line (11).
  11. Process according to Claim 10, characterized in that the rectification column (2) is disposed in the interior of the liquid tank (1).
  12. Process according to Claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the mass transfer in the rectification column (2) is effected at least in part by an arranged packing (6, 7).
  13. Process according to one of Claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the feed of liquefied atmospheric gas from the liquid tank (1) is set as a function of the instantaneous cold requirement of the process.
  14. Process according to Claim 13, characterized in that a gaseous fraction from the rectification column is at least in part condensed by indirect heat exchange in a condenser-evaporator (12, 203) and in that the instantaneous cold requirement is determined by measuring the liquid level on the evaporation side of the condenser-evaporator (12, 203).
  15. Process according to Claim 14, characterized in that the liquefied atmospheric gas from the liquid tank (1) is fed to the evaporation side of the condenser-evaporator (12, 203).
EP92118088A 1991-10-25 1992-10-22 Installation for the low temperature separation Expired - Lifetime EP0538857B2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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DE4135302A DE4135302A1 (en) 1991-10-25 1991-10-25 DEVICE FOR LOW TEMPERATURE DISPOSAL OF AIR
DE4135302 1991-10-25

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AT (1) ATE188771T1 (en)
DE (2) DE4135302A1 (en)
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FR2706025B1 (en) † 1993-06-03 1995-07-28 Air Liquide Air distillation installation.
US5617742A (en) * 1996-04-30 1997-04-08 The Boc Group, Inc. Distillation apparatus
EP0908689A3 (en) * 1997-08-20 1999-06-23 AIR LIQUIDE Japan, Ltd. Method and apparatus for air distillation
DE19737520A1 (en) * 1997-08-28 1999-03-04 Messer Griesheim Gmbh Plant for the low-temperature separation of air
DE19737521A1 (en) * 1997-08-28 1999-03-04 Messer Griesheim Gmbh Plant for the low-temperature separation of air
FR2771160B1 (en) 1997-11-17 2000-01-28 Air Liquide CRYOGENIC DISTILLATION UNIT
US5996373A (en) * 1998-02-04 1999-12-07 L'air Liquide, Societe Ananyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude Cryogenic air separation process and apparatus
DE10210324A1 (en) * 2002-03-08 2003-09-18 Linde Ag Method and device for producing a highly pure product from a feed fraction
US6912872B2 (en) 2002-08-23 2005-07-05 The Boc Group, Inc. Method and apparatus for producing a purified liquid
FR2855598B1 (en) * 2003-05-28 2005-10-07 Air Liquide METHOD AND INSTALLATION FOR SUPPLYING PRESSURE GAS RELIEF BY CRYOGENIC LIQUID VAPORIZATION
US7340921B2 (en) * 2004-10-25 2008-03-11 L'Air Liquide - Société Anonyme à Directoire et Conseil de Surveillance pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procédés Georges Claude Cold box and cryogenic plant including a cold box
FR2903483B1 (en) * 2006-07-04 2014-07-04 Air Liquide METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AIR SEPARATION BY CRYOGENIC DISTILLATION
FR2906878A1 (en) * 2007-01-09 2008-04-11 Air Liquide Nitrogen supplying method, involves sending liquid nitrogen towards separating apparatus for partially maintaining cooling of apparatus, during operating period, and conveying liquid nitrogen flow to vaporizer during another period
FR2913104B1 (en) * 2007-02-28 2009-11-27 Air Liquide PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR SUPPLYING NITROGEN.
WO2009063146A1 (en) * 2008-03-28 2009-05-22 L'air Liquide Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude Heat exchanger and cryogenic-distillation-based air separation device including one such exchanger
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FR2958026B1 (en) * 2010-03-23 2014-07-04 Air Liquide APPARATUS FOR AIR SEPARATION BY CRYOGENIC DISTILLATION
JP6865282B2 (en) * 2016-12-29 2021-04-28 レール・リキード−ソシエテ・アノニム・プール・レテュード・エ・レクスプロワタシオン・デ・プロセデ・ジョルジュ・クロード Processes and equipment for establishing vacuum insulation under cryogenic conditions

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AT386279B (en) * 1986-04-02 1988-07-25 Voest Alpine Ag DEVICE FOR THE DISASSEMBLY OF GASES BY MEANS OF COAXIAL INTERLECTED RECTIFICATION COLONES

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EP0538857B1 (en) 2000-01-12
ATE188771T1 (en) 2000-01-15
DE59209795D1 (en) 2000-02-17
GR3033134T3 (en) 2000-08-31
EP0538857A1 (en) 1993-04-28
ES2142811T3 (en) 2000-05-01
PT538857E (en) 2000-06-30
DE4135302A1 (en) 1993-04-29

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