EP1103772A1 - Device for producing argon - Google Patents

Device for producing argon Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1103772A1
EP1103772A1 EP00100820A EP00100820A EP1103772A1 EP 1103772 A1 EP1103772 A1 EP 1103772A1 EP 00100820 A EP00100820 A EP 00100820A EP 00100820 A EP00100820 A EP 00100820A EP 1103772 A1 EP1103772 A1 EP 1103772A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
column
argon
air separation
sub
raw
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.)
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Application number
EP00100820A
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German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Augustin Dipl.-Ing. Rampp
Stefan Möller
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Linde GmbH
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Linde GmbH
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Publication date
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Publication of EP1103772A1 publication Critical patent/EP1103772A1/en
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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
    • F25J3/04642—Recovering noble gases from air
    • F25J3/04648—Recovering noble gases from air argon
    • F25J3/04654—Producing crude argon in a crude argon column
    • F25J3/04666—Producing crude argon in a crude argon column as a parallel working rectification column of the low pressure column in a dual pressure main column system
    • F25J3/04672—Producing crude argon in a crude argon column as a parallel working rectification column of the low pressure column in a dual pressure main column system having a top condenser
    • F25J3/04678—Producing crude argon in a crude argon column as a parallel working rectification column of the low pressure column in a dual pressure main column system having a top condenser cooled by oxygen enriched liquid from high pressure column bottoms
    • 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
    • F25J3/04642—Recovering noble gases from air
    • F25J3/04648—Recovering noble gases from air argon
    • F25J3/04654—Producing crude argon in a crude argon column
    • F25J3/04666—Producing crude argon in a crude argon column as a parallel working rectification column of the low pressure column in a dual pressure main column system
    • F25J3/04672—Producing crude argon in a crude argon column as a parallel working rectification column of the low pressure column in a dual pressure main column system having a top condenser
    • F25J3/04703—Producing crude argon in a crude argon column as a parallel working rectification column of the low pressure column in a dual pressure main column system having a top condenser being arranged in more than one vessel
    • 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
    • F25J3/04642—Recovering noble gases from air
    • F25J3/04648—Recovering noble gases from air argon
    • F25J3/04721—Producing pure argon, e.g. recovered from a crude argon column
    • F25J3/04727—Producing pure argon, e.g. recovered from a crude argon column using an auxiliary pure argon column for nitrogen rejection
    • 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
    • F25J3/04969—Retrofitting or revamping of an existing air fractionation unit
    • 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
    • F25J2235/00—Processes or apparatus involving steps for increasing the pressure or for conveying of liquid process streams
    • F25J2235/58—Processes or apparatus involving steps for increasing the pressure or for conveying of liquid process streams the fluid being argon or crude argon
    • 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
    • F25J2245/00—Processes or apparatus involving steps for recycling of process streams
    • F25J2245/50—Processes or apparatus involving steps for recycling of process streams the recycled stream being oxygen

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device for the extraction of argon by rectification an argon-containing fraction with a raw argon column, a feed for the fraction containing argon to the crude argon column and a line for withdrawing one Residual fraction from the raw argon column. Furthermore, the invention relates to a Air separation plant for the production of argon, which has at least one Air separation column for the production of oxygen and / or nitrogen and a Has crude argon column, which is connected via a line for an argon-containing fraction with the Air separation column is connected, and wherein the air separation column and the Raw argon column are thermally insulated.
  • the air contains only about 1% of argon. To be enough To achieve a high argon yield, the argon can only be obtained from a certain point Plant size makes sense.
  • Such air separation plants for the production of argon are generally known and in the specialist literature, for example in Hausen / Linde, Low temperature technology, 2nd edition, p.332 ff, described in detail.
  • a two-column apparatus a pressure column and has a low pressure column, used to separate the air. That one Argon, the so-called Argon belly, is considered to contain essentially oxygen and argon withdrawn gaseous fraction and freed of oxygen in the crude argon column.
  • the crude argon column is usually arranged so that its bottom is approximately on Height of the argon tap of the low pressure column is located, so that at Rectification at the bottom of the crude argon column can be transported back to the low pressure column without a pump.
  • EP-A-0 377 117 a process for the production of argon is relatively higher Purity described, in which packs or packing for the raw argon column Rectification. When using packs, however Height of the raw argon column so large that the height of the raw argon column of the other pillars, making a higher cold box necessary. Out for this reason, EP-A-0 628 777 proposes the crude argon column in two To divide sub-columns, the first sub-column extending from the height of the argon extends to the top of the low-pressure column and the size of the second sub-column is adapted to the height requirements of the remaining theoretical floors.
  • EP-A-0 870 524 tries better the space available in the cold box exploit and proposes a system in which the crude argon column is also divided is.
  • the first sub-column is adapted to the double column and to the procedure and extends from the argon tap to the top of the low pressure column.
  • the second The partial column has the same height as the double column, so that the cold box in the is essentially completely filled out.
  • the object of the invention is to obtain the rectifier argon optimize.
  • An air separation plant according to the invention for the production of argon which at least one air separation column for the production of oxygen and / or Has nitrogen and a crude argon column, via a line for an argon Fraction is connected to the air separation column, and being the air separation column and the crude argon column are thermally insulated, has separate insulations for the Raw argon column and the air separation column.
  • the invention thus provides a portable argon unit and a Air separation plant for nitrogen and / or oxygen production, to which one such a unit, at least containing the crude argon column, is connected for Available.
  • the modular structure of air separation plants has so far only been used by small systems.
  • the modular structure allows the production of the individual parts of an air separation plant in the manufacturing plant, so that the modules on the construction site only with each other need to be connected.
  • argon module forms a separate functional unit within the overall air separation plant system, which is only about the necessary lines are connected to the air separation plant or can be connected.
  • the crude argon column is preferably not in the insulation of the air separation column integrated for nitrogen and / or oxygen production.
  • an inventive Air separation plant with two-stage rectification are the double column and the raw argon column in different casings, the so-called Cold boxes.
  • the raw argon column with insulating jacket is one of them Oxygen / nitrogen recovery part separate unit, which has appropriate feed and Derivatives are connected to the rest of the system.
  • the raw argon column and a pure argon column are advantageously integrated into the module. So a complete argon module is made available, which is an advantage in addition to the rectification columns mentioned, the corresponding ones Head capacitors, a raw argon capacitor and a pure argon capacitor and contains a pure argon evaporator.
  • the necessary connecting lines, any pumps and instrumentation required are included in the Integrated argon module.
  • the crude argon column and the are particularly preferred Pure argon column housed in a common insulation, within which none Devices for generating the argon-containing fraction are provided.
  • the method known from EP-A-0 628 777 for dividing the crude argon column brings in combination with the present invention additional advantages.
  • the Argon or raw argon unit according to the invention can thereby be transported more easily be used to stabilize the relatively thin but high Raw argon column and its insulation necessary effort is reduced.
  • the crude argon column therefore preferably consists of two sub-columns, means for Supply of gas from the top of the first sub-column to the bottom of the second sub-column and Means for supplying liquid from the sump of the second column to the top of the first Sub-column are provided.
  • the crude argon column is usually in relation to the low pressure column or in Ratio to that intended for oxygen and / or nitrogen production Air separation column arranged so that its sump is approximately at the level of Argon tap of the low pressure column or the air separation column. So can the residual liquid collecting in the sump of the crude argon column without use pumped back into the low pressure column or air separation column become.
  • a device for Promotion of a residual fraction from the crude argon column to the air separation column intended is usually in relation to the low pressure column or in Ratio to that intended for oxygen and / or nitrogen production Air separation column arranged so that its sump is approximately at the level of Argon tap of the low pressure column or the air separation column. So can the residual liquid collecting in the sump of the crude argon column without use pumped back into the low pressure column or air separation column become.
  • a device for Promotion of a residual fraction from the crude argon column to the air separation column intended is intended.
  • the associated operating and Reading devices integrated.
  • you get an argon module the prefabricated and can already be tested in the factory.
  • the module containing the raw argon column and the Air separation columns can also be vacuum insulated.
  • the invention compared to the known plants for argon production significant advantages. So far, the argon rectification part has become one Air separation plant specifically matched to the overall plant. According to the invention, the argon unit can now be separated from the rest of the system assembled and tested. If the size of the argon unit allows it, it is even possible assembly and corresponding functional tests in the factory perform. At the construction site, the argon unit only has to be used with the remaining system can be connected via prefabricated lines.
  • the process design of the argon unit according to the invention is based on the desired quantities of argon product and is essentially independent of the structure of the rest of the air separation plant. It is thereby possible to achieve a certain standardization of the argon rectification part of an air separation plant. The costs for the calculation, design and manufacture of the system are reduced.
  • the argon unit is simple and economically interchangeable, so that it is possible, if necessary, to bring about a change in capacity in argon production or to easily retrofit an air separation plant with an argon rectification unit.
  • the use of the argon module according to the invention has proven to be particularly advantageous in air separation plants in which more than 9000 m 3 / h of air are processed.
  • the air separation plant shown has a double column rectifier with a pressure column 2 and low pressure column 3 for the production of nitrogen at the top of the low pressure column 3 and oxygen from the bottom of the low pressure column 3.
  • the double column is cold together with the main heat exchanger 4 and other not shown System components, e.g. Subcoolers, housed in a cold box 1.
  • the Coldbox 1 is thermally insulated with Perlite.
  • a separate cold box 5 there are one divided into two sub-columns 6, 7 Raw argon column, a pure argon column 8 and the corresponding overhead capacitors 9, 10. Both sub-columns 6, 7 are at the bottom of the cold box 5 and have in essentially the same height, so that the cold box 5 is filled as well as possible.
  • the first sub-column 6 is in the usual way through a line 17 through which one in fraction containing essential oxygen and argon in the first sub-column 6 can be fed, connected to the low pressure column 3.
  • the return line 18 is used for the return of accumulating in the sump of the first sub-column 6 Residual liquid to the low pressure column 3. In this return line 18 is a pump 12 for Promotion of residual liquid is provided.
  • the first sub-column 6 does not have a top capacitor.
  • the return liquid for this Column 6 is formed by the bottom liquid of the second sub-column 7, which means a pump 11 is pumped to the head of the sub-column 6.
  • the top capacitor 9 Return liquid for the second part 7 of the crude argon column by condensation Head fraction in indirect heat exchange for sump liquid from pressure column 2, which is supplied via line 19.
  • the resulting steam is returned via line 13 to the low pressure column 3.
  • Excess Bottom liquid is from the top condenser 9 via line 14 in the Low pressure column 3 fed.
  • the top capacitor 10 the pure argon column 8 is supplied with sump liquid from the pressure column 2. Accruing Vapor and excess liquid are removed via lines 15 and 16 which lead into the Lines 13 and 14 open, also passed into the low pressure column 3.
  • a functional argon unit is housed, which over the Connecting lines 13,14,16,17,18 and 19 to the air separation plant Oxygen and nitrogen production is connected.
  • the cold box 5 with the invention Argon unit right next to Coldbox 1, in which the double column 2, 3 and Main heat exchanger 4 are accommodated.
  • the two cold boxes 1 and 5 are connected to each other.
  • the partition 20, the right wall of the Coldbox 1 and most of the left wall of Coldbox 5 corresponds to this arrangement is omitted, whereby a single common cold box is formed.
  • With a spaced arrangement of the cold boxes 1, 5, as shown in FIG. 1, is the space immediately next to the two walls mentioned above, which in FIG Form partition 20, filled with insulating material and therefore not usable.

Abstract

Mobile apparatus for recovering argon comprises rectification of an argon-containing fraction using a crude argon column (6, 7); a feed for the fraction and a line for removing a residual fraction from the column. An Independent claim is also included for an air decomposition device for recovering argon.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung zur Gewinnung von Argon durch Rektifikation einer argonhaltigen Fraktion mit einer Rohargonsäule, einer Zuführung für die argonhaltige Fraktion zur Rohargonsäule und einer Leitung zum Abziehen einer Restfraktion aus der Rohargonsäule. Ferner bezieht sich die Erfindung auf eine Luftzerlegungsanlage zur Gewinnung von Argon, welche mindestens eine Luftzerlegungssäule zur Gewinnung von Sauerstoff und/oder Stickstoff und eine Rohargonsäule aufweist, die über eine Leitung für eine argonhaltige Fraktion mit der Luftzerlegungssäule verbunden ist, und wobei die Luftzerlegungssäule und die Rohargonsäule thermisch isoliert sind.The invention relates to a device for the extraction of argon by rectification an argon-containing fraction with a raw argon column, a feed for the fraction containing argon to the crude argon column and a line for withdrawing one Residual fraction from the raw argon column. Furthermore, the invention relates to a Air separation plant for the production of argon, which has at least one Air separation column for the production of oxygen and / or nitrogen and a Has crude argon column, which is connected via a line for an argon-containing fraction with the Air separation column is connected, and wherein the air separation column and the Raw argon column are thermally insulated.

Argon ist in der Luft nur mit einem Anteil von etwa 1% enthalten. Um eine genügend hohe Argonausbeute zu erzielen, ist die Argongewinnung erst ab einer bestimmten Anlagengröße sinnvoll. Derartige Luftzerlegungsanlagen zur Gewinnung von Argon sind allgemein bekannt und in der Fachliteratur, beispielsweise in Hausen/Linde, Tieftemperaturtechnik, 2. Auflage, S.332 ff, ausführlich beschrieben.The air contains only about 1% of argon. To be enough To achieve a high argon yield, the argon can only be obtained from a certain point Plant size makes sense. Such air separation plants for the production of argon are generally known and in the specialist literature, for example in Hausen / Linde, Low temperature technology, 2nd edition, p.332 ff, described in detail.

In der Regel wird in diesen Anlagen ein Zweisäulenapparat, der eine Drucksäule und eine Niederdrucksäule aufweist, zur Zerlegung der Luft eingesetzt. Das sich an einer Zwischenstelle in der Niederdrucksäule anstauende Argon, der sogenannte Argonbauch, wird als eine im wesentlichen Sauerstoff und Argon enthaltende gasförmige Fraktion abgezogen und in der Rohargonsäule vom Sauerstoff befreit.As a rule, a two-column apparatus, a pressure column and has a low pressure column, used to separate the air. That one Argon, the so-called Argon belly, is considered to contain essentially oxygen and argon withdrawn gaseous fraction and freed of oxygen in the crude argon column.

Üblicherweise wird die Rohargonsäule so angeordnet, daß sich deren Boden etwa auf Höhe des Argonabstichs der Niederdrucksäule befindet, so daß die bei der Rektifikation am Sumpf der Rohargonsäule anfallende sauerstoffreiche Flüssigkeit ohne Pumpe zur Niederdrucksäule zurücktransportiert werden kann.The crude argon column is usually arranged so that its bottom is approximately on Height of the argon tap of the low pressure column is located, so that at Rectification at the bottom of the crude argon column can be transported back to the low pressure column without a pump.

In der EP-A-0 377 117 ist ein Verfahren zur Gewinnung von Argon relativ hoher Reinheit beschrieben, bei dem in der Rohargonsäule Packungen oder Füllkörper zur Rektifikation eingesetzt werden. Beim Einsatz von Packungen kann allerdings die Bauhöhe der Rohargonsäule so groß werden, daß die Höhe der Rohargonsäule die der übrigen Säulen übersteigt, wodurch eine höhere Coldbox notwendig wird. Aus diesem Grund wird in der EP-A-0 628 777 vorgeschlagen, die Rohargonsäule in zwei Teilsäulen zu teilen, wobei sich die erste Teilsäule von der Höhe des Argonabstichs bis maximal zum Kopf der Niederdrucksäule erstreckt und die Größe der zweiten Teilsäule an den Höhenbedarf der restlichen theoretischen Böden angepaßt ist.In EP-A-0 377 117 a process for the production of argon is relatively higher Purity described, in which packs or packing for the raw argon column Rectification. When using packs, however Height of the raw argon column so large that the height of the raw argon column of the other pillars, making a higher cold box necessary. Out for this reason, EP-A-0 628 777 proposes the crude argon column in two To divide sub-columns, the first sub-column extending from the height of the argon extends to the top of the low-pressure column and the size of the second sub-column is adapted to the height requirements of the remaining theoretical floors.

Die EP-A-0 870 524 versucht den in der Coldbox vorhandenen Raum besser auszunutzen und schlägt eine Anlage vor, bei der die Rohargonsäule ebenfalls geteilt ist. Die erste Teilsäule ist an die Doppelsäule und an die Verfahrensführung angepaßt und erstreckt sich vom Argonabstich bis zum Kopf der Niederdrucksäule. Die zweite Teilsäule besitzt die gleiche Höhe wie die Doppelsäule, so daß die Coldbox im wesentlichen vollständig ausgefüllt wird.EP-A-0 870 524 tries better the space available in the cold box exploit and proposes a system in which the crude argon column is also divided is. The first sub-column is adapted to the double column and to the procedure and extends from the argon tap to the top of the low pressure column. The second The partial column has the same height as the double column, so that the cold box in the is essentially completely filled out.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, die rektifikatorische Argongewinnung zu optimieren.The object of the invention is to obtain the rectifier argon optimize.

Diese Aufgabe wird dadurch gelöst, daß die Vorrichtung der eingangs genannten Art als ein transportables Modul ausgebildet ist.This object is achieved in that the device of the type mentioned is designed as a transportable module.

Eine erfindungsgemäße Luftzerlegungsanlage zur Gewinnung von Argon, welche mindestens eine Luftzerlegungssäule zur Gewinnung von Sauerstoff und/oder Stickstoff und eine Rohargonsäule aufweist, die über eine Leitung für eine argonhaltige Fraktion mit der Luftzerlegungssäule verbunden ist, und wobei die Luftzerlegungssäule und die Rohargonsäule thermisch isoliert sind, besitzt getrennte Isolierungen für die Rohargonsäule und die Luftzerlegungssäule.An air separation plant according to the invention for the production of argon, which at least one air separation column for the production of oxygen and / or Has nitrogen and a crude argon column, via a line for an argon Fraction is connected to the air separation column, and being the air separation column and the crude argon column are thermally insulated, has separate insulations for the Raw argon column and the air separation column.

Die Erfindung stellt somit eine transportable Argoneinheit sowie eine Luftzerlegungsanlage zur Stickstoff- und / oder Sauerstoffgewinnung, an die eine derartige, zumindest die Rohargonsäule enthaltende Einheit angeschlossen wird, zur Verfügung. Der modulare Aufbau von Luftzerlegungsanlagen wird bisher nur bei kleinen Anlagen eingesetzt. So ist aus der EP-B-0 629 829 bekannt, eine Luftzerlegungsanlage in mehrere transportfähige Module zu unterteilen: Den Luftverdichter, die Molsiebe, die Zubehörteile stromab des Verdichters, den Hauptwärmetauscher und die kalten Zubehörteile sowie die Destillationskolonne. Der modulare Aufbau erlaubt die Fertigung der einzelnen Teile einer Luftzerlegungsanlage im Herstellerwerk, so daß die Module auf der Baustelle nur noch miteinander verbunden werden müssen.The invention thus provides a portable argon unit and a Air separation plant for nitrogen and / or oxygen production, to which one such a unit, at least containing the crude argon column, is connected for Available. The modular structure of air separation plants has so far only been used by small systems. One is known from EP-B-0 629 829 To divide the air separation plant into several transportable modules: The Air compressors, the molecular sieves, the accessories downstream of the compressor, the Main heat exchanger and the cold accessories as well as the distillation column. The modular structure allows the production of the individual parts of an air separation plant in the manufacturing plant, so that the modules on the construction site only with each other need to be connected.

Eine derartige Unterteilung der Anlage in Einzelmodule ist bei großen Luftzerlegern jedoch nicht möglich, da auch die Einzelmodule noch das Transportmaß der üblichen Schwerlasttransportmittel überschreiten würden. Die Größe der einzelnen Anlagenteile verbietet daher einen modularen Aufbau und zwingt den Hersteller zur Montage auf der Baustelle.Such a division of the system into individual modules is for large air separators not possible, however, since the individual modules still have the same transport dimensions as usual Heavy goods vehicles would exceed. The size of the individual system parts therefore prohibits a modular structure and forces the manufacturer to mount on the Construction site.

Erfindungsgemäß wird nun die von kleinen Luftzerlegungsanlagen bekannte, aber aus den oben genannten Gründen auf große Anlagen nicht übertragbare modulare Aufteilung in abgewandelter Form realisiert, indem die zur Argongewinnung vorgesehenen Anlagenteile als ein Modul betrachtet werden, welches von der Doppelsäule getrennt ist. Das Argonmodul bildet somit eine separate Funktionseinheit innerhalb des Gesamtsystems Luftzerlegungsanlage, die lediglich über die notwendigen Leitungen an die Luftzerlegungsanlage angeschlossen ist bzw. angeschlossen werden kann.According to the invention, that known from small air separation plants is now, but from modular reasons not transferable to large systems for the reasons mentioned above Distribution in a modified form realized by the argon extraction provided parts of the system are considered as a module, which by the Double column is separated. The argon module thus forms a separate functional unit within the overall air separation plant system, which is only about the necessary lines are connected to the air separation plant or can be connected.

Im Gegensatz zu der aus der oben genannten EP-A-0 870 524 bekannten Vorrichtung wird die Rohargonsäule vorzugsweise nicht in die Isolierung der Luftzerlegungssäule zur Stickstoff- und / oder Sauerstoffgewinnung integriert. Bei einer erfindungsgemäßen Luftzerlegungsanlage mit zweistufiger Rektifikation befinden sich die Doppelsäule und die Rohargonsäule in unterschiedlichen Ummantelungen, den sogenannten Coldboxen. Die Rohargonsäule mit isolierender Ummantelung ist eine von dem Sauerstoff-/Stickstoffgewinnungsteil separate Einheit, die über entsprechende Zu- und Ableitungen mit der übrigen Anlage verbunden wird.In contrast to the device known from the above-mentioned EP-A-0 870 524 the crude argon column is preferably not in the insulation of the air separation column integrated for nitrogen and / or oxygen production. In an inventive Air separation plant with two-stage rectification are the double column and the raw argon column in different casings, the so-called Cold boxes. The raw argon column with insulating jacket is one of them Oxygen / nitrogen recovery part separate unit, which has appropriate feed and Derivatives are connected to the rest of the system.

Von Vorteil sind die Rohargonsäule und eine Reinargonsäule in das Modul integriert. Es wird also ein komplettes Argonmodul zur Verfügung gestellt, welches von Vorteil neben den genannten Rektifikationskolonnen auch die entsprechenden Kopfkondensatoren, einen Rohargonkondensator und einen Reinargonkondensator sowie einen Reinargonverdampfer enthält. Die erforderlichen Verbindungsleitungen, eventuell nötige Pumpen und die erforderliche Instrumentierung sind in das Argonmodul integriert. Besonders bevorzugt sind die Rohargonsäule und die Reinargonsäule in einer gemeinsamen Isolierung untergebracht, innerhalb derer keine Vorrichtungen zur Erzeugung der argonhaltigen Fraktion vorgesehen sind.The raw argon column and a pure argon column are advantageously integrated into the module. So a complete argon module is made available, which is an advantage in addition to the rectification columns mentioned, the corresponding ones Head capacitors, a raw argon capacitor and a pure argon capacitor and contains a pure argon evaporator. The necessary connecting lines, any pumps and instrumentation required are included in the Integrated argon module. The crude argon column and the are particularly preferred Pure argon column housed in a common insulation, within which none Devices for generating the argon-containing fraction are provided.

Das aus der EP-A-0 628 777 bekannte Verfahren, die Rohargonsäule zu teilen, bringt in Kombination mit der vorliegenden Erfindung zusätzliche Vorteile. Die erfindungsgemäße Argon- bzw. Rohargoneinheit kann dadurch leichter transportiert werden, da der ansonsten zur Stabilisierung der relativ dünnen, aber hohen Rohargonsäule und deren Isolierung notwendige Aufwand verringert wird. Vorzugsweise besteht die Rohargonsäule daher aus zwei Teilsäulen, wobei Mittel zur Zufuhr von Gas vom Kopf der ersten Teilsäule zum Sumpf der zweiten Teilsäule und Mittel zur Zufuhr von Flüssigkeit vom Sumpf der zweiten Teilsäule zum Kopf der ersten Teilsäule vorgesehen sind.The method known from EP-A-0 628 777 for dividing the crude argon column brings in combination with the present invention additional advantages. The Argon or raw argon unit according to the invention can thereby be transported more easily be used to stabilize the relatively thin but high Raw argon column and its insulation necessary effort is reduced. The crude argon column therefore preferably consists of two sub-columns, means for Supply of gas from the top of the first sub-column to the bottom of the second sub-column and Means for supplying liquid from the sump of the second column to the top of the first Sub-column are provided.

Die Isolierung einer derartigen, geteilten Rohargonsäule wird einfacher und kostengünstiger, wenn sich der Boden der ersten Teilsäule und der Boden der zweiten Teilsäule auf der gleichen Höhe befinden. Die Coldbox, in die die beiden Teilsäulen gemeinsam eingebracht werden, wird besser gefüllt und kann somit kompakter ausgeführt sein.The isolation of such a divided crude argon column is easier and cheaper if the bottom of the first sub-column and the bottom of the second The sub-column is at the same height. The cold box in which the two sub-columns introduced together, is filled better and can therefore be more compact be executed.

Üblicherweise wird die Rohargonsäule im Verhältnis zur Niederdrucksäule bzw. im Verhältnis zu der zur Sauerstoff- und/oder Stickstoffgewinnung vorgesehenen Luftzerlegungssäule so angeordnet, daß sich deren Sumpf etwa auf Höhe des Argonabstichs der Niederdrucksäule bzw. der Luftzerlegungssäule befindet. So kann die sich im Sumpf der Rohargonsäule sammelnde Restflüssigkeit ohne Verwendung einer Pumpe in die Niederdrucksäule bzw. Luftzerlegungssäule zurückbefördert werden. In einer bevorzugten Variante der Erfindung ist dennoch eine Vorrichtung zur Förderung einer Restfraktion aus der Rohargonsäule zur Luftzerlegungssäule vorgesehen. Der apparative Aufwand wird dadurch zwar erhöht, im Gegenzug aber auch die Flexibilität bei der Aufstellung der Anlage gesteigert, da der Sumpf der Rohargonsäule nicht mehr zwingend auf Höhe des Argonabstichs angeordnet werden muß, sondern nach anderen Kriterien, beispielsweise entsprechend den örtlichen Gegebenheiten, aufgestellt werden kann. The crude argon column is usually in relation to the low pressure column or in Ratio to that intended for oxygen and / or nitrogen production Air separation column arranged so that its sump is approximately at the level of Argon tap of the low pressure column or the air separation column. So can the residual liquid collecting in the sump of the crude argon column without use pumped back into the low pressure column or air separation column become. In a preferred variant of the invention, a device for Promotion of a residual fraction from the crude argon column to the air separation column intended. This increases the expenditure on equipment, but in return the flexibility when installing the system has also increased, as the swamp of the Crude argon column can no longer be arranged at the level of the argon tap must, but according to other criteria, for example according to the local Conditions, can be set up.

Vorzugsweise sind in die Vorrichtung zur Argongewinnung die zugehörigen Bedien-und Ableseeinrichtungen integriert. Auf diese Weise erhält man ein Argonmodul, das vorgefertigt und bereits im Werk getestet werden kann.Preferably, the associated operating and Reading devices integrated. In this way you get an argon module, the prefabricated and can already be tested in the factory.

Vorzugsweise bestehen die Isolierung der Luftzerlegungssäule und die der Rohargonsäule aus Perlite. Das die Rohargonsäule beinhaltende Modul und die Luftzerlegungssäule können aber auch vakuumisoliert sein.The isolation of the air separation column and that of the Raw argon column made of perlite. The module containing the raw argon column and the Air separation columns can also be vacuum insulated.

Die Erfindung weist gegenüber den bekannten Anlagen zur Argongewinnung wesentliche Vorteile auf. Bisher wird der Argonrektifikationsteil einer Luftzerlegungsanlage jeweils speziell auf die Gesamtanlage abgestimmt. Erfindungsgemäß kann die Argoneinheit nunmehr separat von der übrigen Anlage montiert und getestet werden. Wenn es die Größe der Argoneinheit erlaubt, ist es sogar möglich, die Montage und entsprechende Funktionstests im Werk durchzuführen. Auf der Baustelle muß die Argoneinheit dann nur noch mit der restlichen Anlage über vorgefertigte Leitungen verbunden werden.The invention compared to the known plants for argon production significant advantages. So far, the argon rectification part has become one Air separation plant specifically matched to the overall plant. According to the invention, the argon unit can now be separated from the rest of the system assembled and tested. If the size of the argon unit allows it, it is even possible assembly and corresponding functional tests in the factory perform. At the construction site, the argon unit only has to be used with the remaining system can be connected via prefabricated lines.

Die verfahrensseitige Auslegung der erfindungsgemäßen Argoneinheit orientiert sich an den gewünschten Mengen an Argonprodukt und ist im wesentlichen unabhängig vom Aufbau der übrigen Luftzerlegungsanlage. Es ist dadurch möglich, eine gewisse Standardisierung des Argonrektifikationsteils einer Luftzerlegungsanlage zu erzielen. Die Kosten für die Berechnung, Auslegung und Fertigung der Anlage werden gesenkt. Zudem ist die Argoneinheit einfach und wirtschaftlich pustauschbar, so daß es im Bedarfsfall möglich ist, eine Kapazitätsänderung bei der Argonproduktion herbeizuführen oder auch eine Luftzerlegungsanlage nachträglich leicht mit einer Argonrektifikationseinheit nachzurüsten. Die Verwendung des erfindungsgemäßen Argonmoduls hat sich insbesondere in Luftzerlegungsanlagen, in denen mehr als 9000 m3/h Luft verarbeitet werden, als vorteilhaft erwiesen.The process design of the argon unit according to the invention is based on the desired quantities of argon product and is essentially independent of the structure of the rest of the air separation plant. It is thereby possible to achieve a certain standardization of the argon rectification part of an air separation plant. The costs for the calculation, design and manufacture of the system are reduced. In addition, the argon unit is simple and economically interchangeable, so that it is possible, if necessary, to bring about a change in capacity in argon production or to easily retrofit an air separation plant with an argon rectification unit. The use of the argon module according to the invention has proven to be particularly advantageous in air separation plants in which more than 9000 m 3 / h of air are processed.

Die Erfindung sowie weitere Einzelheiten der Erfindung werden im folgenden anhand von in den Zeichnungen dargestellten Ausführungsbeispielen näher erläutert. Hierbei zeigt

Figur 1
das Verfahrensschema einer erfindungsgemäßen Luftzerlegungsanlage mit Argongewinnung und
Figur 2
eine Variante der Anlage.
The invention and further details of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings. Here shows
Figure 1
the process diagram of an air separation plant according to the invention with argon extraction and
Figure 2
a variant of the system.

Die gezeigte Luftzerlegungsanlage weist einen Doppelsäulenrektifikator mit Drucksäule 2 und Niederdrucksäule 3 zur Gewinnung von Stickstoff am Kopf der Niederdrucksäule 3 und Sauerstoff aus dem Sumpf der Niederdrucksäule 3 auf. Die Doppelsäule ist gemeinsam mit dem Hauptwärmetauscher 4 und weiteren nicht dargestellten kalten Anlageteilen, wie z.B. Unterkühlern, in einer Coldbox 1 untergebracht. Die Coldbox 1 ist mit Perlite thermisch isoliert.The air separation plant shown has a double column rectifier with a pressure column 2 and low pressure column 3 for the production of nitrogen at the top of the low pressure column 3 and oxygen from the bottom of the low pressure column 3. The double column is cold together with the main heat exchanger 4 and other not shown System components, e.g. Subcoolers, housed in a cold box 1. The Coldbox 1 is thermally insulated with Perlite.

In einer separaten Coldbox 5 befinden sich eine in zwei Teilsäulen 6, 7 geteilte Rohargonsäule, eine Reinargonsäule 8 sowie die entsprechenden Kopfkondensatoren 9, 10. Beide Teilsäulen 6, 7 stehen am Boden der Coldbox 5 und besitzen im wesentlichen gleiche Höhe, so daß die Coldbox 5 möglichst gut ausgefüllt wird. Die erste Teilsäule 6 ist in üblicher Weise durch eine Leitung 17, über die eine im wesentlichen Sauerstoff und Argon enthaltende Fraktion in die erste Teilsäule 6 eingespeist werden kann, mit der Niederdrucksäule 3 verbunden. Die Rückleitung 18 dient zur Rückführung von sich im Sumpf der ersten Teilsäule 6 ansammelnder Restflüssigkeit zur Niederdrucksäule 3. In dieser Rückleitung 18 ist eine Pumpe 12 zur Förderung der Restflüssigkeit vorgesehen.In a separate cold box 5 there are one divided into two sub-columns 6, 7 Raw argon column, a pure argon column 8 and the corresponding overhead capacitors 9, 10. Both sub-columns 6, 7 are at the bottom of the cold box 5 and have in essentially the same height, so that the cold box 5 is filled as well as possible. The first sub-column 6 is in the usual way through a line 17 through which one in fraction containing essential oxygen and argon in the first sub-column 6 can be fed, connected to the low pressure column 3. The return line 18 is used for the return of accumulating in the sump of the first sub-column 6 Residual liquid to the low pressure column 3. In this return line 18 is a pump 12 for Promotion of residual liquid is provided.

Die erste Teilsäule 6 besitzt keinen Kopfkondensator. Die Rücklaufflüssigkeit für diese Säule 6 wird durch die Sumpfflüssigkeit der zweiten Teilsäule 7 gebildet, welche mittels einer Pumpe 11 an den Kopf der Teilsäule 6 gepumpt wird. Im Kopfkondensator 9 wird Rücklaufflüssigkeit für den zweiten Teil 7 der Rohargonsäule durch Kondensation der Kopffraktion in indirektem Wärmetausch gegen Sumpfflüssigkeit aus der Drucksäule 2, welche über Leitung 19 zugeführt wird, erzeugt. Der dabei entstehende Dampf wird über Leitung 13 in die Niederdrucksäule 3 zurückgeleitet. Überschüssige Sumpfflüssigkeit wird aus dem Kopfkondensator 9 über Leitung 14 in die Niederdrucksäule 3 eingespeist. In analoger Weise wird auch der Kopfkondensator 10 der Reinargonsäule 8 mit Sumpfflüssigkeit aus der Drucksäule 2 versorgt. Anfallender Dampf und überschüssige Flüssigkeit werden über die Leitungen 15 und 16, die in die Leitungen 13 und 14 münden, ebenfalls in die Niederdrucksäule 3 geleitet.The first sub-column 6 does not have a top capacitor. The return liquid for this Column 6 is formed by the bottom liquid of the second sub-column 7, which means a pump 11 is pumped to the head of the sub-column 6. In the top capacitor 9 Return liquid for the second part 7 of the crude argon column by condensation Head fraction in indirect heat exchange for sump liquid from pressure column 2, which is supplied via line 19. The resulting steam is returned via line 13 to the low pressure column 3. Excess Bottom liquid is from the top condenser 9 via line 14 in the Low pressure column 3 fed. In an analogous manner, the top capacitor 10 the pure argon column 8 is supplied with sump liquid from the pressure column 2. Accruing Vapor and excess liquid are removed via lines 15 and 16 which lead into the Lines 13 and 14 open, also passed into the low pressure column 3.

In der Coldbox 5 ist eine funktionsfähige Argoneinheit untergebracht, die über die Verbindungsleitungen 13,14,16,17,18 und 19 an die Luftzerlegungsanlage zur Sauerstoff- und Stickstoffgewinnung angeschlossen ist. Durch die Trennung der beiden Coldboxen 1 und 5 entsteht ein separates Argonmodul, das im Werk vorgefertigt und getestet werden kann.In the Coldbox 5 a functional argon unit is housed, which over the Connecting lines 13,14,16,17,18 and 19 to the air separation plant Oxygen and nitrogen production is connected. By separating the two Coldboxes 1 and 5 create a separate argon module that is prefabricated and can be tested.

In der Ausführungsform gemäß Figur 2 wird die Coldbox 5 mit der erfindungsgemäßen Argoneinheit direkt neben die Coldbox 1, in der die Doppelsäule 2, 3 und der Hauptwärmetauscher 4 untergebracht sind, gestellt. (In den Figuren 1 und 2 sind gleiche Elemente mit gleichen Bezugszeichen versehen). Die beiden Coldboxen 1 und 5 werden miteinander verbunden. Die Trennwand 20, die der rechten Wand der Coldbox 1 und dem größten Teil der linken Wand der Coldbox 5 entspricht, kann bei dieser Anordnung entfallen, wodurch eine einzige gemeinsame Coldbox gebildet wird. Bei einer beabstandeten Anordnung der Coldboxen 1, 5, wie sie in Figur 1 gezeigt ist, ist der Raum unmittelbar neben den beiden oben genannten Wänden, die in Figur 2 die Trennwand 20 bilden, mit Isoliermaterial gefüllt und daher nicht nutzbar. Bei der in Figur 2 dargestellten Ausführungsform sind die Trennwand 20 und die entsprechende Isolierung dieser Wand dagegen nicht notwendig, sodaß der nutzbare Raum in der gemeinsamen Coldbox größer ist als die Summe der nutzbaren Rauminhalte der einzelnen Coldboxen 1 und 5.In the embodiment according to Figure 2, the cold box 5 with the invention Argon unit right next to Coldbox 1, in which the double column 2, 3 and Main heat exchanger 4 are accommodated. (In Figures 1 and 2 are same elements with the same reference numerals). The two cold boxes 1 and 5 are connected to each other. The partition 20, the right wall of the Coldbox 1 and most of the left wall of Coldbox 5 corresponds to this arrangement is omitted, whereby a single common cold box is formed. With a spaced arrangement of the cold boxes 1, 5, as shown in FIG. 1, is the space immediately next to the two walls mentioned above, which in FIG Form partition 20, filled with insulating material and therefore not usable. At the in Figure 2 shown embodiment are the partition 20 and the corresponding However, insulation of this wall is not necessary, so that the usable space in the common cold box is greater than the sum of the usable space individual cold boxes 1 and 5.

Claims (13)

Vorrichtung zur Gewinnung von Argon durch Rektifikation einer argonhaltigen Fraktion mit einer Rohargonsäule, einer Zuführung für die argonhaltige Fraktion zur Rohargonsäule und einer Leitung zum Abziehen einer Restfraktion aus der Rohargonsäule, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Vorrichtung als ein transportables Modul ausgebildet ist.Device for the production of argon by rectification of an argon-containing fraction with a crude argon column, a feed for the argon-containing fraction to the crude argon column and a line for withdrawing a residual fraction from the crude argon column, characterized in that the device is designed as a transportable module. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß sich die Rohargonsäule (6, 7) in einer thermischen Isolierung (5) befindet und innerhalb der Isolierung (5) keine Vorrichtungen (2, 3) zur Erzeugung der argonhaltigen Fraktion vorgesehen sind.Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the Raw argon column (6, 7) in a thermal insulation (5) and inside the Isolation (5) no devices (2, 3) for generating the argon-containing fraction are provided. Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 oder 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Modul eine Reinargonsäule (8) umfaßt.Device according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the module comprises a pure argon column (8). Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Rohargonsäule aus zwei Teilsäulen (6, 7) besteht, wobei Mittel zur Zufuhr von Gas vom Kopf der ersten Teilsäule (6) zum Sumpf der zweiten Teilsäule (7) und Mittel (11) zur Zufuhr von Flüssigkeit vom Sumpf der zweiten Teilsäule (7) zum Kopf der ersten Teilsäule (6) vorgesehen sind.Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the Raw argon column consists of two sub-columns (6, 7), with means for supplying gas from the top of the first subsection (6) to the bottom of the second subsection (7) and medium (11) for supplying liquid from the sump of the second sub-column (7) to the top of the first sub-column (6) are provided. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß sich der Boden der ersten Teilsäule (6) und der Boden der zweiten Teilsäule (7) auf der gleichen Höhe befinden.Apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the bottom of the first sub-column (6) and the bottom of the second sub-column (7) at the same height are located. Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß in der Leitung (18) zum Abziehen einer Restfraktion aus der Rohargonsäule (6) Mittel (12) zur Förderung der Restfraktion vorgesehen ist.Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that in the line (18) for withdrawing a residual fraction from the crude argon column (6) (12) is intended to promote the remaining fraction. Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Modul die der Rohargonsäule (6, 7) zugehörigen Bedien- und Ableseeinrichtungen umfaßt. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the Module the operating and reading devices associated with the raw argon column (6, 7) includes. Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Rohargonsäule (6, 7) mit Perlite isoliert ist.Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the Raw argon column (6, 7) is isolated with perlite. Luftzerlegungsanlage zur Gewinnung von Argon, welche mindestens eine Luftzerlegungssäule zur Gewinnung von Sauerstoff und/oder Stickstoff und eine Rohargonsäule aufweist, die über eine Leitung für eine argonhaltige Fraktion mit der Luftzerlegungssäule verbunden ist, und wobei die Luftzerlegungssäule und die Rohargonsäule thermisch isoliert sind, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß für die Rohargonsäule (6, 7) und die Luftzerlegungssäule (2, 3) getrennte Isolierungen (1, 5) vorgesehen sind.Air separation plant for the recovery of argon, which has at least one air fractionation column for the recovery of oxygen and / or nitrogen and a crude argon column which is connected via a line for an argon-containing fraction with the air separation column, and wherein the air separation column and the crude argon column are thermally insulated, characterized in that separate insulations (1, 5) are provided for the raw argon column (6, 7) and the air separation column (2, 3). Luftzerlegungsanlage nach Anspruch 9, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Rohargonsäule (6, 7) und die Luftzerlegungssäule (2, 3) jeweils in einem thermisch isolierten, insbesondere mit Perlite isolierten, Behälter (1, 5) angeordnet sind.Air separation plant according to claim 9, characterized in that the Raw argon column (6, 7) and the air separation column (2, 3) each in one thermally insulated containers (1, 5), in particular insulated with perlite are. Luftzerlegungsanlage nach einem der Ansprüche 9 oder 10, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß eine gemeinsame Isolierung (5) für die Rohargonsäule (2, 3) und eine Reinargonsäule (8) vorgesehen ist.Air separation plant according to one of claims 9 or 10, characterized characterized in that a common insulation (5) for the crude argon column (2, 3) and a pure argon column (8) is provided. Luftzerlegungsanlage nach einem der Ansprüche 9 bis 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Rohargonsäule aus zwei Teilsäulen (6, 7) besteht, wobei Mittel zur Zufuhr von Gas vom Kopf der ersten Teilsäule (6) zum Sumpf der zweiten Teilsäule (7) und Mittel (11) zur Zufuhr von Flüssigkeit vom Sumpf der zweiten Teilsäule (7) zum Kopf der ersten Teilsäule (6) vorgesehen sind.Air separation plant according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized characterized in that the crude argon column consists of two sub-columns (6, 7), wherein Means for supplying gas from the top of the first subsection (6) to the bottom of the second sub-column (7) and means (11) for supplying liquid from the bottom of the second sub-column (7) to the head of the first sub-column (6) are provided. Luftzerlegungsanlage nach einem der Ansprüche 9 bis 12, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß Mittel (12) zur Förderung einer Restfraktion aus der Rohargonsäule (6) zur Luftzerlegungssäule (3) vorgesehen ist.Air separation plant according to one of claims 9 to 12, characterized characterized in that means (12) for promoting a residual fraction from the Raw argon column (6) for air separation column (3) is provided.
EP00100820A 1999-11-26 2000-01-17 Device for producing argon Withdrawn EP1103772A1 (en)

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Cited By (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1306633A1 (en) * 2001-10-24 2003-05-02 Linde AG Cryogenic separation process and apparatus for the production of argon and high purity oxygen
WO2004088228A3 (en) * 2003-03-31 2005-03-24 Air Prod & Chem Apparatus for cryogenic air distillation
DE102007035619A1 (en) 2007-07-30 2009-02-05 Linde Ag Process and apparatus for recovering argon by cryogenic separation of air
EP2026024A1 (en) 2007-07-30 2009-02-18 Linde Aktiengesellschaft Process and device for producing argon by cryogenic separation of air
DE102009016043A1 (en) 2009-04-02 2010-10-07 Linde Ag Method for operating a pure argon column, comprises initiating a nitrogen-containing argon stream into an upper- or middle area of the pure argon column from which lower area of the argon column is drawn-off to a pure argon product
WO2014135271A2 (en) 2013-03-06 2014-09-12 Linde Aktiengesellschaft Air separation plant, method for obtaining a product containing argon, and method for creating an air separation plant
WO2014169989A1 (en) * 2013-04-18 2014-10-23 Linde Aktiengesellschaft Retrofittable device for low-temperature separation of air, retrofitting system, and method for retrofitting a low-temperature air separation system
DE102013018664A1 (en) 2013-10-25 2015-04-30 Linde Aktiengesellschaft Process for the cryogenic separation of air and cryogenic air separation plant
EP3040665A1 (en) 2014-12-30 2016-07-06 Linde Aktiengesellschaft Distillation system and plant for the production of oxygen by crygenic separation of air
WO2019144380A1 (en) 2018-01-26 2019-08-01 L'air Liquide, Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude Air separation unit by cryogenic distillation

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EP0629829A1 (en) * 1993-06-03 1994-12-21 L'air Liquide, Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude Air distillation plant
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Cited By (15)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1306633A1 (en) * 2001-10-24 2003-05-02 Linde AG Cryogenic separation process and apparatus for the production of argon and high purity oxygen
US7954339B2 (en) 2003-03-31 2011-06-07 Air Products & Chemicals, Inc. Apparatus for cryogenic air distillation
WO2004088228A3 (en) * 2003-03-31 2005-03-24 Air Prod & Chem Apparatus for cryogenic air distillation
AU2004225690B2 (en) * 2003-03-31 2008-06-19 Air Products And Chemicals, Inc. Apparatus for cryogenic air distillation
DE102007035619A1 (en) 2007-07-30 2009-02-05 Linde Ag Process and apparatus for recovering argon by cryogenic separation of air
EP2026024A1 (en) 2007-07-30 2009-02-18 Linde Aktiengesellschaft Process and device for producing argon by cryogenic separation of air
DE102009016043A1 (en) 2009-04-02 2010-10-07 Linde Ag Method for operating a pure argon column, comprises initiating a nitrogen-containing argon stream into an upper- or middle area of the pure argon column from which lower area of the argon column is drawn-off to a pure argon product
WO2014135271A2 (en) 2013-03-06 2014-09-12 Linde Aktiengesellschaft Air separation plant, method for obtaining a product containing argon, and method for creating an air separation plant
WO2014169989A1 (en) * 2013-04-18 2014-10-23 Linde Aktiengesellschaft Retrofittable device for low-temperature separation of air, retrofitting system, and method for retrofitting a low-temperature air separation system
CN105264317A (en) * 2013-04-18 2016-01-20 林德股份公司 Retrofittable device for low-temperature separation of air, retrofitting system, and method for retrofitting a low-temperature air separation system
CN105264317B (en) * 2013-04-18 2019-02-12 林德股份公司 Transformation device, modernization system and the method that Cryognic air separation system is transformed of Cryogenic air separation
DE102013018664A1 (en) 2013-10-25 2015-04-30 Linde Aktiengesellschaft Process for the cryogenic separation of air and cryogenic air separation plant
EP3040665A1 (en) 2014-12-30 2016-07-06 Linde Aktiengesellschaft Distillation system and plant for the production of oxygen by crygenic separation of air
WO2019144380A1 (en) 2018-01-26 2019-08-01 L'air Liquide, Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude Air separation unit by cryogenic distillation
US11740015B2 (en) 2018-01-26 2023-08-29 L'air Liquide, Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude Air separation unit by cryogenic distillation

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