EP1471975A2 - Method and installation for producing breathable air - Google Patents

Method and installation for producing breathable air

Info

Publication number
EP1471975A2
EP1471975A2 EP03717374A EP03717374A EP1471975A2 EP 1471975 A2 EP1471975 A2 EP 1471975A2 EP 03717374 A EP03717374 A EP 03717374A EP 03717374 A EP03717374 A EP 03717374A EP 1471975 A2 EP1471975 A2 EP 1471975A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
air
treated
rehumidification
installation
dry
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP03717374A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1471975B1 (en
Inventor
Didier Barre
Roland Baudet
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Commissariat a lEnergie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives CEA
Orano Demantelement SAS
Original Assignee
Commissariat a lEnergie Atomique CEA
Compagnie Generale des Matieres Nucleaires SA
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Commissariat a lEnergie Atomique CEA, Compagnie Generale des Matieres Nucleaires SA filed Critical Commissariat a lEnergie Atomique CEA
Publication of EP1471975A2 publication Critical patent/EP1471975A2/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1471975B1 publication Critical patent/EP1471975B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
    • A62B15/00—Installations affording protection against poisonous or injurious substances, e.g. with separate breathing apparatus
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
    • A62B7/00—Respiratory apparatus
    • A62B7/14—Respiratory apparatus for high-altitude aircraft
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
    • A62B9/00—Component parts for respiratory or breathing apparatus
    • A62B9/003—Means for influencing the temperature or humidity of the breathing gas
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S55/00—Gas separation
    • Y10S55/17—Compressed air water removal

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of methods for producing breathable air comprising a compressed air treatment step, the latter further comprising an air drying operation.
  • the invention relates to the production of breathable air processes to be used by operators performing work on sensitive sites, such as the work of dismantling of nuclear installations, or "the” work “ deflocculation of asbestos. Still by way of example, the air produced by such processes can also be intended for medical use.
  • this gas can be contained in quantities very important in the compressed air coming from the compressors.
  • the harmful presence of this gas as well as others such as carbon dioxide, can in particular result from various malfunctions of the air compressors used, or else from the proximity between the suction of the compressors and these various gases contained in the atmosphere. .
  • an " air drying by adsorption " operation is generally carried out, with a dew point of between -40 ° C. and -70 ° C.
  • the air produced is very dry. Therefore, it is likely to cause drying of the respiratory organs in operators consuming this air.
  • This process is implemented by an installation comprising two chambers containing agents making it possible to dehumidify the compressed air.
  • the compressed air passes through the first of these chambers, the air is dried, then passes through a space in which the carbon monoxide is transformed into carbon dioxide The dehumidified air
  • the installation also includes a four-way valve, making it possible to reverse the direction of the flow of compressed air through the installation, so that this compressed air circulates alternately from the first to the second chamber, and from the second to the first chamber. Note that this recurrent reversal of direction of the compressed air flow through the installation is a necessary condition for ability to re-humidify the air produced. Thus, this installation does not seem very suitable for the production of air continuously, and does not in any case allow the production of breathable air at a constant humidity rate, during a significant period.
  • this type of process has a number of major drawbacks, including in particular that of the complexity of the installation used, or that of the inability to regulate the humidity level of the breathable air produced.
  • Another drawback lies in the risk of desorption of carbon dioxide, recovered during the passage of air through the column intended to rewet it.
  • the object of the invention is therefore firstly to propose a process for producing breathable air, at least partially remedying the drawbacks of the processes of the prior art cited above.
  • the invention also aims- an installation for producing breathable air, capable of implementing a method such as that meeting the above-mentioned aim.
  • the invention firstly relates to a process for producing breathing air comprising the following steps:
  • the step of rehumidifying the treated dry air comprises a controlled distribution operation of the treated dry air on the one hand in a rehumidification path, and on the other hand in a ' dry path.
  • the method according to the invention makes it possible to produce breathable air at an adjustable and constant humidity rate, whatever the air flow rate to be produced.
  • the distribution of treated dry air is controlled by means of a regulating valve mounted on the rehumidification channel and controlled by control means sensitive to the signal delivered by a humidity measurement probe, the probe being mounted on an outlet pipe connected on the one hand to the rehumidification path, and on the other hand to the dry path.
  • the compressed air treatment step comprises the following operations: filtering of condensates present in compressed air; air drying to remove all traces of moisture in the air; - filtering of dust released during the drying operation; transformation of the carbon monoxide contained in the compressed air into carbon dioxide; - air filtering using an activated carbon filter.
  • the compressed air treatment step is followed by a step of permanent analysis of the amounts of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide present in the treated air, then by an alert step. when the values of these quantities exceed the maximum values to be observed.
  • the invention also "has for object" an installation •• - for producing breathing air comprising: • compressed air treatment means comprising air drying means;
  • the means for rehumidifying the treated dry air comprise a rehumidification channel and a dry channel, as well as distribution means capable of distributing the treated dry air in a controlled manner in each of the channels.
  • the present invention relates to an installation 1 for the production of breathable air by humans, capable of being used on an industrial site where operations are carried out which generate ambient air pollution. , by fumes, dust, .- vapors, _ en. particularly in a room, a room or a closed structure.
  • the breathing air production installation 1. finds an application in the field of the dismantling of nuclear installations, where the operators carrying out work are forced to wear ventilated suits, in order to avoid being in contact. with contaminated areas. It should be noted that the description will be made for an installation 1 for producing breathing air intended to be connected to ventilated combinations (not shown) of operators carrying out dismantling work on nuclear installations, but that of course, installation 1 and the process which is the subject of the invention also applies to fields other than that of nuclear power.
  • the invention could also find an application on asbestos deblocking sites which generate asbestos particles and dust liable to be carcinogenic, on sites where painting operations are carried out , or on sites where welding or cutting of metal parts is carried out with a high emission of smoke.
  • the installation 1 is supplied with compressed air by air compression means (not shown) making it possible to compress the air at a pressure greater than 1 bar, and preferably between 4 and 15 bars.
  • the air compression means are adapted to provide a compressed air flow of between 10 m 3 / h and 1000 m 3 / h per installation.
  • the air compression means may take the form of screw or piston lubricated compressors, or else the form of dry screw compressors.
  • the compressed air - leaving the compression means is usually charged with a multitude of impurities, which it is necessary to extract before directing this air towards the various ventilated combinations of the operators working on the site.
  • the origins of the presence of such species in the compressed air leaving the compression means are diverse and varied. For example, it may be the defective nature of a separator filter of a lubricated compressor, the breakdown of the cooling circuit of a dry screw compressor, or the simple presence of these gases in the atmosphere being located near the suction of the compression means.
  • NE EN 12021 indicates the maximum values of CO and C0 2 -that the air intended to be can contain. breathed.
  • the maximum allowable value imposed by this standard is 500 ppm. (parteicul-es per million) -, -icet.te low value being adopted • so that the air produced; lse .. as close as possible to natural air, containing- "" generally around- 400 ppm- C0 2 . . . .
  • the maximum value imposed by this standard is 15 ppm, this gas being known to be extremely harmful.
  • the harmful species contained in the compressed air supplied to the installation 1, - this one. first of all comprises means of treatment. 2 of compressed air, in particular allowing drying of the air to be redistributed.
  • the installation 1 has rehumidification means 4 of the treated dry air, connected processing means 2.
  • the processing means 2 firstly comprise an oil separator filter 6 at 0.01 ppm, which has the essential role of trapping the condensates present in the compressed air.
  • the filter 6 is equipped with an automatic purge valve 8, intended to evacuate the different -species filtered.
  • the filter 6 is on the one hand - connected to a pipe 9 allowing - to communicate - with the air compression means (not shown), and on the other hand with a pipe 10 also communicating with • means of drying adsorption dryer Type 11.. . . . ....
  • the adsorption dryer 11 aims to remove all traces of moisture in the compressed air. Note that the 5 dryer. - 11 includes a molecular sieve - (not shown.) .'- trapping almost all of the C0 2 - -content
  • the processing means 2 have a filter 13 with 1 micron particles, the main function of which is to stop the dust generated by the dryer 11.
  • CO-C0 2 catalyst 14 connected to the filter 13 by means of a pipe 15, this catalyst being capable of retaining the CO by means of hopcalite ( mixture of metal oxides), and to catalyze the transformation of carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide.
  • hopcalite mixture of metal oxides
  • the adsorption dryer 11 is placed in. upstream of the catalyst 14, the humidity contained in the air being highly detrimental to the proper functioning of the catalyst CO-C0 2 .
  • the treatment means 2 are completed by an active carbon filter 16, intended to remove any trace of taste and odor from the treated air, and connected to the catalyst 14 by means of a pipe 17.
  • the filter activated charcoal 16 is also connected to- a- outlet-pipe ⁇ 0 of the treatment means 2.. . . . - ⁇ present, the rehumidificâTtion means 4 of the treated air will be • - described, always with reference to the single figure.
  • the rehumidification means - 4 comprise an inlet pipe 18, connected to the outlet pipe 20 of the treatment means 2 by a pipe 19.
  • a dry channel 22 consisting of a main dry air line 28 on which is mounted, near point Q, a non-return valve 30 with a loss of known charge.
  • this pressure drop will be of the order of 300 mbar.
  • the other channel located between points P and Q is a rehumidification channel 24.
  • This channel 24 successively comprises between points P and Q, a dry air bypass line 32, a water tank 34, as well as a humidity saturated air line 36.
  • the dry air bypass line 32 communicates with a part of the tank 34 filled with water
  • the humidity saturated air line 36 communicates with, a part of the reservoir 34 not comprising water.
  • a water level 37 inside., Of the reservoir 34 is preferably maintained. of-way; that ⁇ -i 'water being in, the reservoir 34 is to.uj, -o, ùrs ⁇ en. contact with the bypass line, with dry air 32, but never in contact with the line with air saturated with humidity 36.
  • a regulating valve 38 is mounted on the dry air bypass line 32, while a non-return valve 40 is mounted on the humidity saturated air line 36, close to the - po-intr .Q s- a.
  • the dry channels 22 and the rehumidification channels meet at point Q, via the main dry air lines 28 and air saturated with humidity 36.
  • These pipes 28 and 36 are connected to the outlet pipe 26, on which is mounted a probe 42 for measuring the humidity of the treated air.
  • the probe 42 is connected to control means 48, sensitive to the signal delivered by the probe 42, and capable of controlling the regulating valve 38 mounted on the dry air bypass pipe 32.
  • the breathing air production installation 1 operates in the following manner. Compressed air. coming from the compression means enters the installation 1 through the line 9, as represented by the arrow A, then first undergoes treatment by successively borrowing the following elements: the line 9, the oil separator filter 6, the line 10, the dryer 11, the line 12., the particle filter 13, the line 15, the catalyst 14, the line. 1-7, the activated carbon filter 16; - and -the pipe .: 20 .. In this pipe 20, the circulating air
  • the treated dry air arrives at point P, it is distributed on the one hand in the main pipe: dry air 28, - and. : on the other hand. in- - the branch line of ai-r- sec 32.
  • the presence of distribution means, constituted in the embodiment described by the regulating valve 38, allows to fully control the ratio between the quantity of treated air passing through the main dry air pipe 28, and the quantity of treated air circulating in the dry air bypass pipe 32.
  • the air circulating in the main dry air duct 28 does not undergo any specific treatment, and is only led to point Q where it mixes with the treated air coming from the rehumidification channel 24.
  • the air circulating in the dry air bypass line 32 passes through the water tank 34 where it is charged with humidity until saturation, then joins point Q via the line of air saturated with humidity 36
  • the non-return valve 40 is provided so that the dry air coming from the main dry air pipe 28 does not penetrate inside the water tank 34.
  • the outlet line - r 26.- contains a mixture - .d. ' air -sec - and air • saturated.: - in humidity , this mixture being adapted to obtain .un.,., tau of humidity- - predetermined of * the air produced. - by the installation 1.
  • the probe 42 constantly checks, by means of the through the piloting means 48, the opening of the regulating valve 38, and consequently authorizes the first passage of a limited quantity. and -variable of dry air .. coming from. the inlet pipe 18-.
  • the probe 42 also makes it possible to control the temperature of the air delivered.
  • valve 38 is also of interest when the air flow of installation 1 varies, this case being encountered in particular when the number of operators breathing the air produced by installation 1 increases or decreases .
  • a change in the air flow rate inside the installation 1 can cause a change in the distribution of the treated dry air between the pipes 28 and 32, which could have the consequence of modifying the rate humidity of the product air flowing in the outlet pipe 26.
  • the check valve .30 with- -loss: -.-, of. known load essentially has - for the role of - creating - a pressure difference between the main dry air duct 28, and the duct of saturated air 36.
  • Such a difference in pressure allows favor the passage of dry air from the main dry air pipe 28, into the outlet pipe 26.
  • the treated and rehumidified air circulating inside the outlet pipe 26 can therefore leave the installation 1 (arrow B) with a controlled humidity rate, and be redistributed towards the ventilated combinations of the operators.
  • the installation 1 comprises means of analysis ..44 of the quantities of CO and C0 2 contained in the air -; .outgoing processing means 2.
  • the moy-ena ⁇ L analyze 44 communicate with the line means-em ⁇ .nt.-2 via a pipe 46, directly connected to the outlet pipe 20 of the means treatment 2.
  • the analysis means 44 constantly check that the quantities of CO and C0 2 in the treated air do not exceed. maximum values, preferably constituted by the values indicated in the European standard mentioned above.
  • control means 48 are capable of controlling one or more actions informing of the detected malfunction.
  • the control means 48 can then command the triggering of an audible and / or visual alarm which may be located at the place of intervention of the operators, a stopping of the production of air from the installation 1 , or a change of compressed air source, for example by switching to a backup compressor.
  • control means 48 preferably comprise an onboard inverter (not shown) making it possible to carry out at least one of the commands mentioned above, during a drop in the supply voltage of the installation. 1.
  • the air reserve .50 communicates _:, ;;: ave. ⁇ . the. pipe- outlet 26-, of; preferably input point Q and the probe 42, using a pipe -54 on which is mounted a - solenoid valve 56, kept closed during - normal - operation of the installation 1.
  • the means control 48 allow the passage of the air stored in the reserve 50 through the pipe 54, in the direction of the pipe 26 between the point Q and the probe 42. The tilting towards the treated air reserve 5 50 then allows the operators in activity to have a sufficient amount of air in their ventilated suits, in order to leave the work site safely.
  • the invention also relates to a method for producing am - Breathing r .. capable of being implemented by an installation-1 such as that -which. has just been described.
  • the process - ' ⁇ successively comprises the stages of treatment • of compressed air and rehumidification of the dry, treated air.
  • the air re-humidification stage. -dry treated we control the distribution of the dry air treated between a dry process 22

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Pulmonology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Emergency Management (AREA)
  • Toxicology (AREA)
  • Drying Of Gases (AREA)
  • Respiratory Apparatuses And Protective Means (AREA)
  • Carbon And Carbon Compounds (AREA)
  • Separation Of Gases By Adsorption (AREA)

Abstract

The invention concerns a method for producing breathable air comprising the following steps: treating compressed air comprising an air drying operation; rehumidifying the treated dry air. The invention is characterized in that the rehumidifying step of the treated dry air includes controlled distribution of the treated dry air in a rehumidifiying channel (24) and in a dry channel (22). The invention also concerns an installation for implementing said method. The invention is applicable to dismantling of a nuclear facility.

Description

PROCEDE ET INSTALLATION DE PRODUCTION D'AIR RESPIRABLE PROCESS AND PLANT FOR THE PRODUCTION OF BREATHABLE AIR
DESCRIPTIONDESCRIPTION
DOMAINE TECHNIQUETECHNICAL AREA
La présente invention se rapporte au domaine des procédés de production d'air respirable comprenant une étape de traitement d'air comprimé, cette dernière comportant en outre une opération de séchage de l'air.The present invention relates to the field of methods for producing breathable air comprising a compressed air treatment step, the latter further comprising an air drying operation.
Plus particulièrement, l'invention concerne des procédés de production d'air respirable destiné à être utilisé par des opérateurs effectuant des travaux sur des sites sensibles, comme par exemple des travaux de démantèlement d'installations nucléaires, ou encore 'des "travaux de" déflocage d'amiante. Toujours à titre d'exemple, l'air produit par de tels procédés peut aussi être destiné à -un usage médical.More specifically, the invention relates to the production of breathable air processes to be used by operators performing work on sensitive sites, such as the work of dismantling of nuclear installations, or "the" work " deflocculation of asbestos. Still by way of example, the air produced by such processes can also be intended for medical use.
Convention concerne également des installations • de production d'air respirable susceptibles de mettre en œuvre de tels procédés.Convention also provides facilities • production of respirable air likely to implement such processes.
ETAT DE LA TECHNIQUE ANTERIEURESTATE OF THE PRIOR ART
Dans les procédés classiques de production d'air respirable, on effectue tout d'abord une étape de traitement d'air comprimé délivré par un ou plusieurs compresseurs, de sorte que le maximum d'impuretés soit extrait de l'air consommé par les utilisateurs.In the conventional processes for producing breathing air, first of all a step of treating compressed air delivered by one or more compressors is carried out, so that the maximum amount of impurities is extracted from the air consumed by the users. .
Pour ce faire, on s'attache essentiellement à piéger le monoxyde de carbone à l'aide d'un catalyseur, ce gaz pouvant être contenu en quantités très importantes dans l'air comprimé provenant des compresseurs. La présence néfaste de ce gaz ainsi que d'autres comme le dioxyde de carbone, peut notamment résulter de dysfonctionnements divers des compresseurs d'air utilisés, ou encore de la proximité entre l'aspiration des compresseurs et ces différents gaz contenus dans l' atmosphère .To do this, we essentially focus on trapping carbon monoxide using a catalyst, this gas can be contained in quantities very important in the compressed air coming from the compressors. The harmful presence of this gas as well as others such as carbon dioxide, can in particular result from various malfunctions of the air compressors used, or else from the proximity between the suction of the compressors and these various gases contained in the atmosphere. .
On peut noter que dans le cas de travaux de démantèlement d'installations nucléaires, l'air respiré par les opérateurs doit respecter certaines caractéristiques, répertoriées dans la norme NE EN 12021. A ce titre, cette norme indique que la valeur maximale admissible de dioxyde de carbone dans l'air respirable est de 500 ppm, et que la valeur maximale admissible de monoxyde de carbone dans l'air respirable est de 15 ppm.It can be noted that in the case of dismantling of nuclear installations, the air breathed by the operators must respect certain characteristics, listed in standard NE EN 12021. As such, this standard indicates that the maximum admissible value of dioxide of carbon in breathing air is 500 ppm, and the maximum allowable value of carbon monoxide in breathing air is 15 ppm.
Lors de l'étape de traitement de l'air- comprimé, on effectué généralement une opération de "séchage de l'air par adsorption, avec un point de rosée compris entre -40°C et -70°C.During the compressed air treatment stage, an " air drying by adsorption " operation is generally carried out, with a dew point of between -40 ° C. and -70 ° C.
Lors de cette opération, la quasi-totalité du dioxyde de carbone est piégé, tandis que toute trace d'humidité dans l'air est éliminée. Cela permet au catalyseur utilisé pour piéger le monoxyde de carbone de fonctionner correctement.During this operation, almost all of the carbon dioxide is trapped, while all traces of humidity in the air are removed. This allows the catalyst used to trap carbon monoxide to function properly.
Dans ce type de procédé, l'air respirable produit répond aux spécifications de la norme citée ci- dessus, mais présente néanmoins un inconvénient majeur.In this type of process, the breathable air produced meets the specifications of the standard cited above, but nevertheless has a major drawback.
En effet, en raison de l'opération de séchage effectuée durant l'étape de traitement du procédé décrit précédemment, l'air produit est très sec. Par conséquent, il est susceptible de provoquer un dessèchement des organes respiratoires chez les opérateurs consommant cet air.Indeed, due to the drying operation carried out during the treatment step of the process described above, the air produced is very dry. Therefore, it is likely to cause drying of the respiratory organs in operators consuming this air.
Pour répondre à ce problème, il a été proposé d'ajouter une étape de réhumidification de l'air traité, afin que l'air délivré dispose d'un taux d'humidité relativement similaire à celui de l'air aspiré par les compresseurs.To address this problem, it has been proposed to add a rehumidification step for the treated air, so that the air delivered has a humidity rate relatively similar to that of the air drawn in by the compressors.
Ce type de procédé est notamment décrit dans le document US-A-4 054 428.This type of process is described in particular in document US-A-4,054,428.
Ce procédé est mis en œuvre par une installation comprenant deux chambres contenant des agents permettant de déshumidifier l'air comprimé. Lors du passage de l'air comprimé dans la première de ces chambres, l'air est séché, puis passe à travers un espace dans lequel le monoxyde de carbone est transformé en dioxyde de carbone L'air déshumidifiéThis process is implemented by an installation comprising two chambers containing agents making it possible to dehumidify the compressed air. When the compressed air passes through the first of these chambers, the air is dried, then passes through a space in which the carbon monoxide is transformed into carbon dioxide The dehumidified air
• circule - ensuite dans -la - seconde chambre de l'installation, où il est . réhumidifié par l'intermédiaire des agents contenus dans cette seconde chambre, ayant absorbé de " l'humidité lors d'un cycle précédent . • circulates - then in - the - second chamber of the installation, where it is. rehumidified by the agents contained in this second chamber, having absorbed "moisture during a previous cycle.
Pour mettre en œuvre ce procédé, l'installation comporte également une vanne quatre voies, permettant d'inverser la direction du flux d'air comprimé à travers l'installation, afin que cet air comprimé circule alternativement de la première vers la seconde chambre, et de la seconde vers la première chambre.. Notons que cette inversion récurrente de direction du flux d'air .comprimé à travers l'installation est une condition nécessaire pour pouvoir obtenir une réhumidification de l'air produit. Ainsi, cette installation ne semble que très peu adaptée à la production d'air en continu, et ne permet en aucun cas d'effectuer une production d'air respirable à un taux d'humidité constant, durant une période importante .To implement this process, the installation also includes a four-way valve, making it possible to reverse the direction of the flow of compressed air through the installation, so that this compressed air circulates alternately from the first to the second chamber, and from the second to the first chamber. Note that this recurrent reversal of direction of the compressed air flow through the installation is a necessary condition for ability to re-humidify the air produced. Thus, this installation does not seem very suitable for the production of air continuously, and does not in any case allow the production of breathable air at a constant humidity rate, during a significant period.
De plus, ce type de procédé comporte un certain nombre d'inconvénients majeurs, dont notamment celui de la complexité de l'installation utilisée, ou encore celui de l'incapacité à réguler le taux d'humidité de l'air respirable produit. Un autre inconvénient réside dans le risque de désorption du dioxyde de carbone, récupéré lors du passage de l'air dans la colonne destinée à le réhumidifier.In addition, this type of process has a number of major drawbacks, including in particular that of the complexity of the installation used, or that of the inability to regulate the humidity level of the breathable air produced. Another drawback lies in the risk of desorption of carbon dioxide, recovered during the passage of air through the column intended to rewet it.
EXPOSÉ DE L'INVENTIONSTATEMENT OF THE INVENTION
L'-invention a donc tout d'abord pour but de proposer un .^procédé de production d'air respirable, remédiant au moins- partiellement aux inconvénients des procédés .de '"l'art antérieur cités ci-dessus. En- outre, l'invention a également pour but- une installation de production d'air respirable, susceptible de mettre en œuvre un procédé tel que celui répondant au but mentionné ci-dessus.The object of the invention is therefore firstly to propose a process for producing breathable air, at least partially remedying the drawbacks of the processes of the prior art cited above. , the invention also aims- an installation for producing breathable air, capable of implementing a method such as that meeting the above-mentioned aim.
Pour ce faire, l'invention a tout d'abord pour objet un procédé de production d'air respirable comprenant les étapes suivantes :To do this, the invention firstly relates to a process for producing breathing air comprising the following steps:
- traitement d'air comprimé comportant une opération de séchage de l'air ;- compressed air treatment including an air drying operation;
- réhumidification de l'air sec traité ; Selon l'invention, l'étape de réhumidification de l'air sec traité comporte une opération de répartition contrôlée de l'air sec traité d'une part dans une voie de réhumidification, et d'autre part dans une' voie sèche.- rehumidification of the treated dry air; According to the invention, the step of rehumidifying the treated dry air comprises a controlled distribution operation of the treated dry air on the one hand in a rehumidification path, and on the other hand in a ' dry path.
Avantageusement, le procédé selon l'invention permet de produire de l'air respirable à taux d'humidité réglable et constant, quel que soit le débit d'air à produire.Advantageously, the method according to the invention makes it possible to produce breathable air at an adjustable and constant humidity rate, whatever the air flow rate to be produced.
De façon préférentielle, on contrôle la répartition d'air sec traité par l'intermédiaire d'une vanne régulatrice montée sur la voie de réhumidification et commandée par des moyens de pilotage sensibles au signal délivré par une sonde de mesure du taux d'humidité, la sonde étant montée sur une canalisation de sortie raccordée d'une part à la voie de réhumidification, et d'autre part à la voie sèche.Preferably, the distribution of treated dry air is controlled by means of a regulating valve mounted on the rehumidification channel and controlled by control means sensitive to the signal delivered by a humidity measurement probe, the probe being mounted on an outlet pipe connected on the one hand to the rehumidification path, and on the other hand to the dry path.
De plus, on peut prévoir de créer une iifférence de pression --'entre la voie .de réhumidification et la voie sèche, afin de favoriser- le passage de l'air sec traité provenant de la voie sèche,- dans la canalisation de sortie. Ainsi, on évite de mouiller trop fortement la- sonde de mesure du taux d'humidité, ce qui aurait pour conséquence de la rendre inopérante . Préférentiellement, l'étape de traitement d'air comprimé comporte les opérations suivantes- : filtrage de condensats se trouvant- dans 1 ' air comprimé ; séchage de l'air afin d'éliminer toute trace d'humidité dans l'air ; - filtrage de poussières dégagées lors de l'opération de séchage ; transformation du monoxyde de carbone contenu dans 1 ' air comprimé en dioxyde de carbone ; - filtrage de l'air à l'aide d'un filtre à charbon actif.In addition, provision may be made to create a pressure difference - ' between the rehumidification path and the dry path, in order to favor - the passage of the treated dry air coming from the dry path, - in the outlet pipe. . In this way, it is avoided to wet the humidity rate measurement probe too strongly, which would have the consequence of rendering it inoperative. Preferably, the compressed air treatment step comprises the following operations: filtering of condensates present in compressed air; air drying to remove all traces of moisture in the air; - filtering of dust released during the drying operation; transformation of the carbon monoxide contained in the compressed air into carbon dioxide; - air filtering using an activated carbon filter.
De manière préférée, l'étape de traitement de l'air comprimé est suivie d'une étape d'analyse permanente de quantités de monoxyde de carbone et de dioxyde de carbone présentes dans l'air traité, puis d'une étape d'alerte lorsque les valeurs de ces quantités dépassent des valeurs maximales à respecter.Preferably, the compressed air treatment step is followed by a step of permanent analysis of the amounts of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide present in the treated air, then by an alert step. when the values of these quantities exceed the maximum values to be observed.
Enfin, après l'étape de réhumidification de l'air sec traité, l'air a un taux d'humidité compris entre environ 40 et 50%, et peut être prévu pour alimenter au moins une combinaison ventilée -.d'un opérateur effectuant des travaux=- de démantèlementFinally, after the rehumidification step of the treated dry air, the air has a humidity level of between approximately 40 and 50%, and can be provided to supply at least one ventilated combination - of an operator performing works = - dismantling
.. d'-installations nucléaires-... of nuclear installations.
L'invention a -également "pour objet une ' installation ••-- de production, d'air respirable comprenant :• des moyens de traitement d'air comprimé comportant des moyens de séchage de l'air ;The invention also "has for object" an installation •• - for producing breathing air comprising: • compressed air treatment means comprising air drying means;
- des moyens de réhumidification de l'air sec traité ;- means for rehumidifying the treated dry air;
Selon l'invention, les moyens de réhumidification de l' air- sec— traité comportent une voie de réhumidification et une voie sèche, ainsi que des moyens de répartition aptes à répartir de manière contrôlée l'air sec traité dans chacune des voies. D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront dans la description détaillée, non limitative, ci-dessous.According to the invention, the means for rehumidifying the treated dry air comprise a rehumidification channel and a dry channel, as well as distribution means capable of distributing the treated dry air in a controlled manner in each of the channels. Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear in the detailed, non-limiting description, below.
BRÈVE DESCRIPTION DES DESSINS La description sera faite au regard de l'unique figure annexée, représentant une vue schématique d'une installation de production d'air respirable selon un mode de réalisation préféré de 1' invention. EXPOSÉ DÉTAILLÉ D'UN MODE DE RÉALISATION PRÉFÉRÉBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The description will be made with reference to the single appended figure, representing a schematic view of an installation for producing breathing air according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
En référence à la figure unique, la présente invention concerne une installation 1 de production d'air respirable par l'être humain, susceptible d'être utilisée sur un site industriel où s'effectuent- des opérations générant une pollution de l'air ambiant, par des fumées, des poussières,.- des vapeurs,_ en. particulier dans un local, une pièce ou une structure- fûermée .With reference to the single figure, the present invention relates to an installation 1 for the production of breathable air by humans, capable of being used on an industrial site where operations are carried out which generate ambient air pollution. , by fumes, dust, .- vapors, _ en. particularly in a room, a room or a closed structure.
Préférentiellement, l'installation 1. de production d'air respirable trouve une application dans le domaine du démantèlement d'installations nucléaires, où les opérateurs effectuant des travaux sont contraints de porter des combinaisons ventilées, afin d' éviter .d'être en contact avec des zones contaminées. II est à noter que la description va être faite pour une installation 1 de production d'air respirable destinée à être raccordée à des combinaisons ventilées (non représentées) d'opérateurs effectuant des travaux de démantèlement d' installations nucléaires, mais que bien entendu, l'installation 1 et le procédé objets de l'invention s'appliquent également à d'autres domaines que celui du nucléaire.Preferably, the breathing air production installation 1. finds an application in the field of the dismantling of nuclear installations, where the operators carrying out work are forced to wear ventilated suits, in order to avoid being in contact. with contaminated areas. It should be noted that the description will be made for an installation 1 for producing breathing air intended to be connected to ventilated combinations (not shown) of operators carrying out dismantling work on nuclear installations, but that of course, installation 1 and the process which is the subject of the invention also applies to fields other than that of nuclear power.
A titre d'exemples, l'invention pourrait aussi trouver une application sur les chantiers de déflocage d' amiante qui génèrent des particules et poussières d'amiante susceptibles d'être cancérigènes, sur les chantiers où s'effectuent des opérations de mise en peinture, ou encore sur les sites sur lesquels sont réalisés des soudages ou découpages de pièces métalliques avec une forte émission de fumée.By way of examples, the invention could also find an application on asbestos deblocking sites which generate asbestos particles and dust liable to be carcinogenic, on sites where painting operations are carried out , or on sites where welding or cutting of metal parts is carried out with a high emission of smoke.
L'installation 1 est alimentée en air comprimé par des moyens de compression d'air (non représentés) permettant de comprimer l'air à une pression supérieure à 1 bar, et de préférence entre 4 et 15 bars. De plus, les moyens de compression d'air sont adaptés pour fournir un débit d'air comprimé compris entre 10 m3/h et 1000 m3/h par installation.The installation 1 is supplied with compressed air by air compression means (not shown) making it possible to compress the air at a pressure greater than 1 bar, and preferably between 4 and 15 bars. In addition, the air compression means are adapted to provide a compressed air flow of between 10 m 3 / h and 1000 m 3 / h per installation.
Par exemple, les - moyens de compression d' air peuvent prendre la forme de compresseurs lubrifiés à vis ou à pistons, ou encore la forme de compresseurs à vis sèches.For example, the air compression means may take the form of screw or piston lubricated compressors, or else the form of dry screw compressors.
L'air comprimé- - sortant des moyens de compression est habituellement chargé d'une multitude d'impuretés, qu'il est nécessaire d'extraire avant de diriger cet air vers les différentes combinaisons ventilées des opérateurs travaillant sur le site."The compressed air - leaving the compression means is usually charged with a multitude of impurities, which it is necessary to extract before directing this air towards the various ventilated combinations of the operators working on the site. "
.Les- -espèces néfastes, les plus concernées sont le - monoxyde de carbone (CO) et le dioxyde de carbone (C02) , qui lorsqu'elles sont présentes en quantités trop importantes à l'intérieur d'une combinaison ventilée, peuvent engendrer des conséquences catastrophiques pour un opérateur portant cette combinaison..- The harmful species, the most concerned are - carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (C0 2 ), which when present in too large quantities inside a ventilated combination, can generate catastrophic consequences for an operator wearing this combination.
Les origines de la présence de telles espèces dans l'air comprimé sortant des moyens de compression sont diverses et variées. A titre d'exemple, il peut s'agir du caractère défectueux d'un filtre séparateur d'un compresseur lubrifié, de la rupture du circuit de refroidissement d'un compresseur à vis sèches, ou encore de la simple présence de ces gaz dans l'atmosphère se situant à proximité de l'aspiration des moyens de compression.The origins of the presence of such species in the compressed air leaving the compression means are diverse and varied. For example, it may be the defective nature of a separator filter of a lubricated compressor, the breakdown of the cooling circuit of a dry screw compressor, or the simple presence of these gases in the atmosphere being located near the suction of the compression means.
Par ailleurs, une norme européenne référencée NE EN 12021 indique les valeurs maximales en CO et C02 -que peut comporter l'air destiné à être. respiré.In addition, a European standard referenced NE EN 12021 indicates the maximum values of CO and C0 2 -that the air intended to be can contain. breathed.
En ce qui concerne le C02, la valeur maximale admissible imposée par- cette- norme est de 500 ppm. (parteicul-es par million) -, -icet.te faible valeur étant adoptée • pour que l'air produit ;lse.. rapproche au maximum de l'air naturel, contenant-""gëhéralement aux alentours- de 400 ppm- de C02. . . .For C0 2 , the maximum allowable value imposed by this standard is 500 ppm. (parteicul-es per million) -, -icet.te low value being adopted • so that the air produced; lse .. as close as possible to natural air, containing- "" generally around- 400 ppm- C0 2 . . . .
De la même manière, pour le CO, la valeur maximale imposée par cette norme- est de 15 ppm, ce gaz étant connu pour être extrêmement nocif. Pour éliminer autant que possible les espèces néfastes contenues dans l'air comprimé fourni à l'installation 1, - celle-ci- . comporte tout d'abord des moyens ..-de traitement. 2 d'air comprimé, permettant notamment d'effectuer un séchage de l'air à redistribuer. De plus, en raison de la possibilité d'assèchement des voies respiratoires d'un être humain respirant l'air sec traité sortant des moyens de traitement 2, l'installation 1 dispose de moyens de réhumidification 4 de l'air sec traité, connectés aux moyens de traitement 2.In the same way, for CO, the maximum value imposed by this standard is 15 ppm, this gas being known to be extremely harmful. To eliminate as much as possible the harmful species contained in the compressed air supplied to the installation 1, - this one. first of all comprises means of treatment. 2 of compressed air, in particular allowing drying of the air to be redistributed. In addition, due to the possibility of drying of the respiratory tract of a human being breathing the treated dry air leaving the treatment means 2, the installation 1 has rehumidification means 4 of the treated dry air, connected processing means 2.
Les différents éléments constituant les moyens de traitement 2 vont à présent être décrits, dans un ordre correspondant à celui dans lequel l'air comprimé rencontre ces éléments, lors de son passage dans l'installation 1.The different elements constituting the processing means 2 will now be described, in an order corresponding to that in which the compressed air meets these elements, when it passes through the installation 1.
Les moyens de traitement 2 comprennent tout d'abord un filtre déshuileur 6 à 0,01 ppm, qui a pour rôle essentiel de piéger les condensats se trouvant dans l'air comprimé. Le filtre 6 est équipé d'une électrovanne de purge automatique 8, destinée à évacuer les différentes -espèces filtrées. Le filtre 6 est d'une part -.raccordé- à une canalisation 9 permettant -de communiquer-., avec ,les moyens de compression d'air (non représentes) , et d'autre part avec une canalisation 10 communiquant également avec des moyens de séchage du • type sécheur à adsorption 11. ... . .... The processing means 2 firstly comprise an oil separator filter 6 at 0.01 ppm, which has the essential role of trapping the condensates present in the compressed air. The filter 6 is equipped with an automatic purge valve 8, intended to evacuate the different -species filtered. The filter 6 is on the one hand - connected to a pipe 9 allowing - to communicate - with the air compression means (not shown), and on the other hand with a pipe 10 also communicating with • means of drying adsorption dryer Type 11.. . . . ....
-Le sécheur à adsorption 11, avec un point de rosée à -73°C sous pression, a pour but d'éliminer toute trace d'humidité dans l'air comprimé. Notons que le5 sécheur. - 11 comprend un tamis moléculaire - (non représenté.).'-piégeant la quasi-totalité du C02- -contenu-The adsorption dryer 11, with a dew point at -73 ° C under pressure, aims to remove all traces of moisture in the compressed air. Note that the 5 dryer. - 11 includes a molecular sieve - (not shown.) .'- trapping almost all of the C0 2 - -content
-dans l'air comprimé.-in compressed air.
Raccordé directement au sécheur à adsorption 11 par l'intermédiaire d'une canalisationDirectly connected to the adsorption dryer 11 via a pipe
12, les moyens de traitement 2 disposent d'un filtre 13 à particules 1 micron, dont la principale fonction est d'arrêter les poussières dégagées par le sécheur 11.12, the processing means 2 have a filter 13 with 1 micron particles, the main function of which is to stop the dust generated by the dryer 11.
De plus, on peut également noter la présence d'un catalyseur 14 de CO-C02 relié au filtre 13 à l'aide d'une canalisation 15, ce catalyseur étant apte à retenir le CO par l'intermédiaire de l'hopcalite (mélange d'oxydes métalliques), et à catalyser la transformation du monoxyde de carbone en dioxyde de carbone. Précisons que le sécheur à adsorption 11 est placé en. amont du catalyseur 14, l'humidité contenue dans l'air étant fortement préjudiciable au bon fonctionnement du catalyseur CO-C02.In addition, we can also note the presence of a CO-C0 2 catalyst 14 connected to the filter 13 by means of a pipe 15, this catalyst being capable of retaining the CO by means of hopcalite ( mixture of metal oxides), and to catalyze the transformation of carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. Note that the adsorption dryer 11 is placed in. upstream of the catalyst 14, the humidity contained in the air being highly detrimental to the proper functioning of the catalyst CO-C0 2 .
Enfin, les moyens de traitement 2 s'achèvent par un filtre à charbon actif 16, destiné à enlever toute trace de goût et d'odeur de l'air traité, et relié au catalyseur 14 au moyen d'une canalisation 17. Le filtre à charbon actif 16 est également relié 'à- une canalisation- de -sortie^ 0 des moyens de- traitement 2. . . . . - ^présent, les moyens de réhumidificâTtion 4 de l'air traité vont être •- décrits, toujours en référence à l'unique figure.Finally, the treatment means 2 are completed by an active carbon filter 16, intended to remove any trace of taste and odor from the treated air, and connected to the catalyst 14 by means of a pipe 17. The filter activated charcoal 16 is also connected to- a- outlet-pipe ^ 0 of the treatment means 2.. . . . - ^ present, the rehumidificâTtion means 4 of the treated air will be • - described, always with reference to the single figure.
Les moyens de réhumidification - 4 comprennent une canalisation d'entrée 18, raccordée à la canalisation de sortie 20 des moyens de traitement 2 par une canalisation 19.The rehumidification means - 4 comprise an inlet pipe 18, connected to the outlet pipe 20 of the treatment means 2 by a pipe 19.
--A.-v.un point P. situé -sur- la -.canalisation d'entrée 18,- celle-ci se divise en deux- pour -former deux voies parallèles 22 et 24, qui se rejoignent à un point Q où elles se raccordent sur une canalisation de sortie 26 des moyens de réhumidification 4. Parmi les deux voies 22 et 24, on note tout d'abord une voie sèche 22, constituée d'une canalisation principale d'air sec 28 sur laquelle est monté, à proximité du point Q, un clapet anti-retour 30 avec une perte de charge connue. Préférentiellement , cette perte de charge sera de l'ordre de 300 mbar.--A.-v. A point P. located -on- the -.channel of entry 18, - this divides in two - to form two parallel channels 22 and 24, which meet at a point Q where they are connected to an outlet pipe 26 of the rehumidification means 4. Among the two channels 22 and 24, we first note a dry channel 22, consisting of a main dry air line 28 on which is mounted, near point Q, a non-return valve 30 with a loss of known charge. Preferably, this pressure drop will be of the order of 300 mbar.
L'autre voie située entre les points P et Q est une voie de rëhumidification 24. Cette voie 24 comprend successivement entre les points P et Q, une canalisation de dérivation d'air sec 32, un réservoir d'eau 34, ainsi qu'une canalisation d'air saturé en humidité 36. Notons que la canalisation de dérivation d'air sec 32 communique avec une partie du réservoir 34 remplie d'-eau, tandis que la canalisation d'air saturé en humidité 36 communique avec, une partie du réservoir 34 ne comprenant pas d'eau. En d'autres termes, un niveau d'eau 37 à l' intérieur., du-.-réservoir 34 est de préférence maintenu . de—sorte; que ^-i' eau se situant dans, le réservoir 34 soit to.uj,-o,ùrs~ en. contact avec la canalisation de dérivâtion-,d*air sec 32, mais jamais en contact avec la canalisa ion -d'air saturé en humidité 36.The other channel located between points P and Q is a rehumidification channel 24. This channel 24 successively comprises between points P and Q, a dry air bypass line 32, a water tank 34, as well as a humidity saturated air line 36. Note that the dry air bypass line 32 communicates with a part of the tank 34 filled with water, while the humidity saturated air line 36 communicates with, a part of the reservoir 34 not comprising water. In other words, a water level 37 inside., Of the reservoir 34 is preferably maintained. of-way; that ^ -i 'water being in, the reservoir 34 is to.uj, -o, ùrs ~ en. contact with the bypass line, with dry air 32, but never in contact with the line with air saturated with humidity 36.
Il -est précisé qu'une vanne régulatrice 38 est montée sur la canalisation de dérivation d'air sec 32, tandis qu'un clapet anti-retour 40 est monté sur la canalisation d'air saturé "en humidité 36, à proximité ' du - po-intr .Q s- a.It is specified that a regulating valve 38 is mounted on the dry air bypass line 32, while a non-return valve 40 is mounted on the humidity saturated air line 36, close to the - po-intr .Q s- a.
-Gomme mentionné- ei--dessus, les -voies sèche 22 et de réhumidification 24 se rejoignent au point Q, par l'intermédiaire des canalisations principale d'air sec 28 et d'air saturé en humidité 36. Ces canalisations 28 et 36 sont raccordées à la canalisation de sortie 26, sur laquelle est montée une sonde 42 de mesure du taux d'humidité de l'air traité. La sonde 42 est reliée à des moyens de pilotage 48, sensibles au signal délivré par la sonde 42, et aptes à piloter la vanne régulatrice 38 montée sur la canalisation de dérivation d'air sec 32.-As mentioned above, the dry channels 22 and the rehumidification channels meet at point Q, via the main dry air lines 28 and air saturated with humidity 36. These pipes 28 and 36 are connected to the outlet pipe 26, on which is mounted a probe 42 for measuring the humidity of the treated air. The probe 42 is connected to control means 48, sensitive to the signal delivered by the probe 42, and capable of controlling the regulating valve 38 mounted on the dry air bypass pipe 32.
L'installation 1 de production d'air respirable fonctionne de la manière suivante. L'air comprimé . provenant des moyens de compression entre dans l'installation 1 par la canalisation 9, comme cela est représenté par la flèche A, puis subit tout d'abord un traitement en empruntant successivement les éléments suivants : la canalisation 9, le filtre déshuileur 6, la canalisation 10, le sécheur 11, _la .canalisation 12., le filtre à particules 13, la -.canalisation 15, le catalyseur 14, la canalisation .1-7, le filtre à charbon actif- 16-; - et -la canalisation.: 20.. Dans cette canalisation 20, l'air circulantThe breathing air production installation 1 operates in the following manner. Compressed air. coming from the compression means enters the installation 1 through the line 9, as represented by the arrow A, then first undergoes treatment by successively borrowing the following elements: the line 9, the oil separator filter 6, the line 10, the dryer 11, the line 12., the particle filter 13, the line 15, the catalyst 14, the line. 1-7, the activated carbon filter 16; - and -the pipe .: 20 .. In this pipe 20, the circulating air
- à -l'intérieur est sec et- traité, et est acheminé vers les moyens de réhumidification 4 à l'aide' de la canalisation^ 19, raccordée à la canalisation d'entrée- inside - is dry and - treated, and is routed to the rehumidification means 4 using 'the pipe ^ 19, connected to the inlet pipe
18. Lorsque l'air sec traité arrive au point P, il se- répartit d'une part dans la canalisation principale :d' air sec 28,- et. :d'autre parte- . dans- - la canalisation de dérivation d^ai-r- sec 32. La présence de moyens de répartition, constitués dans le mode de réalisation décrit par la vanne régulatrice 38, permet de totalement contrôler le rapport entre la quantité d'air traité passant par la canalisation principale d'air sec 28, et la quantité d'air traité circulant dans la canalisation de dérivation d'air sec 32.18. When the treated dry air arrives at point P, it is distributed on the one hand in the main pipe: dry air 28, - and. : on the other hand. in- - the branch line of ai-r- sec 32. The presence of distribution means, constituted in the embodiment described by the regulating valve 38, allows to fully control the ratio between the quantity of treated air passing through the main dry air pipe 28, and the quantity of treated air circulating in the dry air bypass pipe 32.
L'air circulant dans la canalisation principale d'air sec 28 ne subit aucun traitement spécifique, et est uniquement conduit jusqu'au point Q où il se mélange avec l'air traité provenant de la voie de réhumidification 24. En revanche, l'air circulant dans la canalisation de dérivation d'air sec 32 transite par le réservoir d'eau 34 où il se charge en humidité jusqu'à saturation, puis rejoint le point Q par l'intermédiaire de la canalisation d'air saturé en humidité 36. Notons que le clapet anti-retour 40 est prévu pour que l'air sec provenant de la canalisation principale d'air sec 28 ne pénètre pas à l'intérieur du réservoir„d' eau 34.The air circulating in the main dry air duct 28 does not undergo any specific treatment, and is only led to point Q where it mixes with the treated air coming from the rehumidification channel 24. On the other hand, the air circulating in the dry air bypass line 32 passes through the water tank 34 where it is charged with humidity until saturation, then joins point Q via the line of air saturated with humidity 36 Note that the non-return valve 40 is provided so that the dry air coming from the main dry air pipe 28 does not penetrate inside the water tank 34.
Ainsi, la canalisation de sortie- r26.- contient un mélange- .d.' air -sec - et d'air • saturé.:- en humidité,, ce mélange étant adapté pour obteni .un.,.,tau d'humidité- - prédéterminé de* l'air produit. - par l'installation 1. En --effet, - pour obtenir les proportions: désirées d'air-- sec et d'air saturé en humidité conduisant au taux d'humidité prédéterminé, la sonde 42 contrôle en permanence, par l'intermédiaire des moyens de pilotage 48, l'ouverture de la vanne régulatrice- 38, -et -autorise- par conséquente 1er passage d'une.--quantité—limitée . et -variable d'air sec ..provenant de. la- canalisation d'entrée 18-. De -ce -fait-,- -plus • le taux d'humidité souhaité est élevé, plus l'ouverture commandée de la vanne régulatrice 38 est importante. Notons également que la sonde 42 permet aussi de contrôler la température de l'air délivré.Thus, the outlet line - r 26.- contains a mixture - .d. ' air -sec - and air • saturated.: - in humidity ,, this mixture being adapted to obtain .un.,., tau of humidity- - predetermined of * the air produced. - by the installation 1. In fact - to obtain the desired proportions of dry air and of air saturated with humidity leading to the predetermined humidity level, the probe 42 constantly checks, by means of the through the piloting means 48, the opening of the regulating valve 38, and consequently authorizes the first passage of a limited quantity. and -variable of dry air .. coming from. the inlet pipe 18-. As a result, the more the desired humidity level, the greater the controlled opening of the regulating valve 38. Note also that the probe 42 also makes it possible to control the temperature of the air delivered.
Précisons que la régulation permanente de la vanne 38 trouve également un intérêt lorsque le débit d'air de l'installation 1 varie, ce cas étant notamment rencontré lorsque le nombre d'opérateurs respirant l'air produit par l'installation 1 augmente ou diminue. Dans une telle situation, un changement du débit d'air à l'intérieur de l'installation 1 peut provoquer un changement de la répartition de l'air sec traité entre les canalisations 28 et 32, ceci pouvant avoir pour conséquence de modifier le taux d'humidité de l'air produit circulant dans la canalisation de sortie 26. Cependant, la sonde 42 mesurant de façon constante le taux d'humidité en sortie de l'installation 1, elle permet donc de réajuster en temps réel l'ouverture de la-vanne régulatrice 38, de sorte-=-que l'air produit- puisse, conserver le même taux d'humidité que celui de-~lLair~-~.produit lorsque le nombre de combinaisons ventilées- raccordées à l' installation -1 est différent.Note that the permanent regulation of valve 38 is also of interest when the air flow of installation 1 varies, this case being encountered in particular when the number of operators breathing the air produced by installation 1 increases or decreases . In such a situation, a change in the air flow rate inside the installation 1 can cause a change in the distribution of the treated dry air between the pipes 28 and 32, which could have the consequence of modifying the rate humidity of the product air flowing in the outlet pipe 26. However, the probe 42 constantly measuring the humidity rate at the outlet of the installation 1, it therefore makes it possible to readjust the opening of the the regulating valve 38, so - = - that the air produced - can, keep the same humidity as that of - ~ lLair ~ - ~. produced when the number of ventilated combinations - connected to the installation - 1 is different.
Avec une telle installation 1, on est donc en mesure d' obtenir— -un- air- traité dont le taux d'humidité est constant, quel que soit le débit de l'installation 1, ce taux d'humidité de l'air étant de préférence compris entre 4:0 et '50%.With such an installation 1, we are therefore able to obtain - treated air whose humidity is constant, whatever the flow rate of installation 1, this air humidity preferably being between 4: 0 and 50%.
Le clapet anti≈ etour .30 avec- -perte:-.-, de . charge connue a essentiellement -pour rôle de- créer -une- différence de pression entre la canalisation principale d'air sec 28, et la canalisation d'air saturé en humidité 36. Une telle différence de pression permet de privilégier le passage de l'air sec provenant de la canalisation principale d'air sec 28, dans la canalisation de sortie 26. En réalisant cet agencement particulier, on évite ainsi que seul l'air provenant de la canalisation d'air saturé en humidité 36 rejoigne la canalisation de sortie 26, ceci pouvant avoir pour effet de mouiller trop fortement la sonde 42, et de la rendre alors inopérante .The check valve .30 with- -loss: -.-, of. known load essentially has - for the role of - creating - a pressure difference between the main dry air duct 28, and the duct of saturated air 36. Such a difference in pressure allows favor the passage of dry air from the main dry air pipe 28, into the outlet pipe 26. By making this particular arrangement, it is thus avoided that only the air coming from the air pipe saturated with moisture 36 joins the outlet pipe 26, this may have the effect of wetting the probe 42 too strongly, and then rendering it inoperative.
L'air traité et réhumidifié circulant à l'intérieur de la canalisation de sortie 26 peut donc sortir de l'installation 1 (flèche B) avec un taux d'humidité contrôlé, et être redistribué vers les combinaisons ventilées des opérateurs.The treated and rehumidified air circulating inside the outlet pipe 26 can therefore leave the installation 1 (arrow B) with a controlled humidity rate, and be redistributed towards the ventilated combinations of the operators.
Selon un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention, l'installation 1 comprend des moyens d' analyse ..44 des quantités de CO et de C02 contenues dans 1 ' air -; .sortant des moyens de traitement 2. Les moy-ena≈εL analyse 44 communiquent avec les moyens de trait-emë.nt.-2 par l'intermédiaire d'une canalisation 46, directement raccordée à la canalisation de sortie 20 des -moyens de traitement 2.According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the installation 1 comprises means of analysis ..44 of the quantities of CO and C0 2 contained in the air -; .outgoing processing means 2. The moy-ena≈εL analyze 44 communicate with the line means-emë.nt.-2 via a pipe 46, directly connected to the outlet pipe 20 of the means treatment 2.
Les moyens d'analyse 44 vérifient en permanence que les quantités de CO et de C02 dans l'air traité ne dépassent pas . des valeurs maximales, de préférence constituées par les valeurs indiquées dans l -norme ^européenne mentionnée précédemment.The analysis means 44 constantly check that the quantities of CO and C0 2 in the treated air do not exceed. maximum values, preferably constituted by the values indicated in the European standard mentioned above.
Dans le cas où. -.un- dépassements d' au -..moinsIn the case where. -.one- overspending of - .. minus
-l -une--:-des—valeurs maximales est - détecté par les moyens d'analyse 44, les moyens de pilotage 48 sont susceptibles de commander une ou plusieurs actions informant du dysfonctionnement décelé. A titre d'exemple, les moyens de pilotage 48 peuvent alors commander le déclenchement d'une alarme sonore et/ou visuelle pouvant se situer sur le lieu d'intervention des opérateurs, un arrêt de la production d'air de l'installation 1, ou encore un changement de source d'air comprimé, en basculant par exemple sur un compresseur de secours.-l -one -: - maximum values is - detected by the analysis means 44, the control means 48 are capable of controlling one or more actions informing of the detected malfunction. By way of example, the control means 48 can then command the triggering of an audible and / or visual alarm which may be located at the place of intervention of the operators, a stopping of the production of air from the installation 1 , or a change of compressed air source, for example by switching to a backup compressor.
De plus, notons que les moyens de pilotage 48 comprennent de préférence un onduleur embarqué (non représenté) permettant de réaliser au moins l'une des commandes citées ci-dessus, lors d'une baisse de la tension d'alimentation de l'installation 1.In addition, it should be noted that the control means 48 preferably comprise an onboard inverter (not shown) making it possible to carry out at least one of the commands mentioned above, during a drop in the supply voltage of the installation. 1.
Pour sécuriser encore davantage l'installation 1, on peut prévoir une réserve d'air traité 50, de préférence de capacité d'environ 1000 litres, . _ alimentée en . air traité au moyen -d'une canalisation 52 communiquant avec la canalisation- 19 de- l'installation 1.To further secure the installation 1, provision may be made for a supply of treated air 50, preferably with a capacity of approximately 1000 liters. _ supplied with. air treated by means of a pipe 52 communicating with the pipe 19 of the installation 1.
. r . La réserve .d'air..50 communique_:,;;:ave.α. la. canalisation- de sortie 26-, de; préférence entrëSie point Q et la sonde 42, à l'aide d'une canalisation -54 sur laquelle est montée u - -électrovanne 56, maintenue fermée lors d'un - fonctionnement - normal- de l'installation 1. En revanche, lorsque les moyens d'analyse. r . The air reserve .50 communicates _:, ;;: ave.α. the. pipe- outlet 26-, of; preferably input point Q and the probe 42, using a pipe -54 on which is mounted a - solenoid valve 56, kept closed during - normal - operation of the installation 1. On the other hand, when the means of analysis
44 détectent un dysfonctionnement de l'installation 1, ils sont également- en..mesure _de commander..-!a fermeture d'une, électrova-nne 58 montée sur la - canalisation d'entrée 18, et donc de couper l'arrivée de l'air provenant des moyens de traitement 2. De plus, en commandant l'ouverture de l' électrovanne 56, les moyens de pilotage 48 autorisent le passage de l'air stocké dans la réserve 50 à travers la canalisation 54, en direction de la canalisation 26 entre le point Q et la sonde 42. Le basculement vers la réserve d'air traité 5 50 permet alors aux opérateurs en activité de disposer d'une quantité d'air suffisante dans leurs combinaisons ventilées, afin de quitter le site de travail en toute sécurité.44 detect a malfunction of the installation 1, they are also in measure to order closing of an electrovalve 58 mounted on the inlet pipe 18 and therefore cutting the air coming from the treatment means 2. In addition, by controlling the opening of the solenoid valve 56, the means control 48 allow the passage of the air stored in the reserve 50 through the pipe 54, in the direction of the pipe 26 between the point Q and the probe 42. The tilting towards the treated air reserve 5 50 then allows the operators in activity to have a sufficient amount of air in their ventilated suits, in order to leave the work site safely.
Sur la réserve d'air 50, on peut égalementOn the air reserve 50, it is also possible
1.0 prévoir une alarme supplémentaire du type alarme pneumatique 58 alimentée par la réserve d'air 50, cette alarme 58 étant particulièrement intéressante dans la mesure où elle est susceptible de fonctionner même lors d'une rupture de l'alimentation électrique et d'une1.0 provide an additional alarm of the pneumatic alarm 58 type supplied by the air reserve 50, this alarm 58 being particularly advantageous insofar as it is capable of operating even during a break in the electrical supply and a
15 défaillance de l'onduleur. -15 UPS failure. -
L'invention se rapporte également à un procédé de production d'ai -r respirable apte à être mis .. en œuvre par une installation- 1 telle que celle -qui. vient d'être décrite.The invention also relates to a method for producing am - Breathing r .. capable of being implemented by an installation-1 such as that -which. has just been described.
20 Le procédé - '^comprend successivement les étapes de traitement • -d'air comprimé et de réhumidification de l'air sec, traité. Dans l'étape de réhumidification de -l'air. -sec traité, on contrôle la répartition de l'air sec traité entre une voie sèche 22The process - ' ^ successively comprises the stages of treatment • of compressed air and rehumidification of the dry, treated air. In the air re-humidification stage. -dry treated, we control the distribution of the dry air treated between a dry process 22
25 et une voie de réhumidification 24, afin d'obtenir un mélange d'air traité à un. taux, d'humidité prédéterminé.25 and a rehumidification channel 24, in order to obtain a mixture of air treated with one. rate, predetermined humidity.
Bien --- -entendu, . _. • diverses modifications peuvent .- être apportées :- -'par - l'homme du -métier à l'installation 1 de production d'air et au procédé quiOf course, . _. • various modifications can be made: - by the person skilled in the art to installation 1 of air production and to the process which
30 viennent d'être décrits, uniquement à titre d'exemples non limitatifs. 30 have just been described, only by way of nonlimiting examples.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Procédé de production d'air respirable comprenant les étapes suivantes :1. A method of producing breathable air comprising the following steps:
- traitement d'air comprimé comportant une opération de séchage de l'air ;- compressed air treatment including an air drying operation;
- réhumidification de l'air sec traité ; caractérisé en ce que l'étape de réhumidification de l'air sec traité comporte une opération de répartition contrôlée de l'air sec traité d'une part dans une voie -de réhumidification (24) , et d'autre part dans une voie sèche (22) .- rehumidification of the treated dry air; characterized in that the rehumidification step of the treated dry air comprises a controlled distribution operation of the treated dry air on the one hand in a rehumidification path (24), and on the other hand in a dry path (22).
2. Procédé selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce qu'on contrôle la répartition d'air sec traité par l'intermédiaire d'une vanne régulatrice (38) montée sur la voie de réhumidification (24) et commandée par des moyens de pilotage (48) sensibles au signal -délivré par une sonde (42) de mesure du taux2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the distribution of treated dry air is controlled by means of a regulating valve (38) mounted on the rehumidification channel (24) and controlled by control means (48) sensitive to the signal -delivered by a probe (42) for measuring the rate
-d'-humidité, ladite sonde (42) étant montée- sur une canalisation de sortie (26) , raccordée d'une part à la voie fde réhumidification (24)-,- et d'autre part à la-of humidity, said probe (42) being mounted on an outlet pipe (26), connected on the one hand to the rewetting channel (24) -, - and on the other hand to the
-•vole sèche (22).- • flies dry (22).
3. Procédé selon la revendication 2, -caractérisé en ce que l'on crée une différence de pression entre la voie de réhumidification (24) et la voie sèche (22), afin de favoriser le passage de l'air seσ"i-traité -provenant de' la voie sèche (22), dans la canalisâtion de sortie- (-26-)--.3. Method according to claim 2, -characterized in that a pressure difference is created between the rehumidification path (24) and the dry path (22), in order to promote the passage of air seσ "i- treated -from 'the dry route (22), in the outlet pipe- (-26 -) -.
4. - Procédé, -selon- l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'étape de traitement d'air comprimé comporte les opérations suivantes : - filtrage de condensats se trouvant dans l'air comprimé ; séchage de l'air afin d'éliminer toute trace d'humidité dans l'air ; - filtrage de poussières dégagées lors de l'opération de séchage ; transformation du monoxyde de carbone contenu dans l'air comprimé en dioxyde de carbone ;4. - Method, according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the compressed air treatment step comprises the following operations: - filtering of condensates in the compressed air; air drying to remove all traces of moisture in the air; - filtering of dust released during the drying operation; transformation of the carbon monoxide contained in the compressed air into carbon dioxide;
- filtrage de l'air à l'aide d'un filtre à charbon actif (16) .- air filtering using an activated carbon filter (16).
5. Procédé selon 1 ' une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'étape de traitement de l'air comprimé est suivie d'une étape d'analyse permanente de quantités de monoxyde de carbone et de dioxyde de carbone présentes dans l'air traité, puis d'une étape d'alerte lorsque les valeurs de ces quantités dépassent des - valeurs maximales à respecter.5. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the step of treating the compressed air is followed by a step of permanent analysis of the quantities of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide present in the treated air, then an alert step when the values of these quantities exceed - maximum values to be observed.
..
6. Procédé., selon l'une quelconque, des revendications précédentes, -caractérisé en ce. qu'après l'étape de réhumidification de l'air sec traité, l'air a un taux d'humidité compris-entre environ 40 et 50%.6. Method. According to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that. that after the rehumidification stage of the treated dry air, the air has a humidity level of between about 40 and 50%.
7. Procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'air traité réhumidifié est prévu pour alimenter au moins une combinaison ventilée d'un opérateur ^effectuant des - travaux de -démantèlement d' installations nucléaires .7. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rehumidified treated air is intended to supply at least one ventilated combination of an operator ^ carrying out - dismantling works of nuclear installations.
8. Installation -• (1) de- production d'air respirable comprenant : des moyens de traitement (2) d'air comprimé comportant des moyens de séchage de l'air8. Installation - • (1) of breathing air production including: compressed air treatment means (2) comprising air drying means
(11);(11);
- des moyens de réhumidification (4) de l'air sec traité ; caractérisée en ce que les moyens de rëhumidification (4) de l'air sec traité, comportent une voie de réhumidification (24) et une voie sèche (22) , ainsi que des moyens de répartition (38) aptes à répartir de manière contrôlée l'air sec traité dans chacune desdites, voies (22,24).- rehumidification means (4) of the treated dry air; characterized in that the rehumidification means (4) of the treated dry air comprise a rehumidification path (24) and a dry path (22), as well as distribution means (38) capable of distributing in a controlled manner l dry air treated in each of said channels (22,24).
9. Installation (1) selon la revendication 8, caractérisée en ce que les moyens de réhumidification (4) de l'air sec traité comportent également :9. Installation (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the rehumidification means (4) of the treated dry air also comprise:
- une canalisation d^ entrée (18) contenant de l'air - sec traité raccordée d'une part à une canalisation principale „.d air sec (28) constituant -la voie sèche (22), et diaut.r.e . part., à une canalisation de dérivation d'air sec -(3.2)- appartenant à la voie de réhumidification (24)- - ;•> - • - • - An inlet pipe (18) containing treated dry air - connected on the one hand to a main pipe „.d dry air (28) constituting -the dry route (22), and diaut.re. part., to a dry air bypass line - (3.2) - belonging to the rehumidification channel (24) - -; •> - • - •
- une canalisation de sortie (26) raccordée d'une -part à une canalisation d'air saturé en humidité (36) appartenant à la voie de réhumidification (24) , et d'autre part à ladite canalisation principale d'air sec- an outlet pipe (26) connected on the one hand to a pipe of air saturated with humidity (36) belonging to the rehumidification channel (24), and on the other hand to said main dry air pipe
(28) •;(28) • ;
-un. réservoir: _d' eau (34) appartenante -à- la voie de réhumidification--- -.(24) , communiquant -d'une part avec ladite canalisation de dérivation d'air sec (32), et d'autre part avec ladite canalisation d'air saturé en humidité (36) . -a. tank: _of water (34) belonging to the rehumidification channel --- -. (24), communicating -on the one hand with said dry air bypass pipe (32), and on the other hand with said air line saturated with humidity (36).
10. Installation (1) selon la revendication 9, caractérisée en ce que les moyens de répartition de l'air sec traité sont constitués d'une vanne régulatrice (38) montée sur ladite canalisation de dérivation d'air sec (32), ladite vanne de régulation étant commandée par des moyens de pilotage (48) , sensibles au signal délivré par une sonde (42) de mesure du taux d'humidité, montée sur ladite canalisation de sortie (26) . 10. Installation (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the means for distributing the treated dry air consist of a regulating valve (38) mounted on said dry air bypass pipe (32), said control valve being controlled by control means (48), sensitive to the signal delivered by a probe (42) for measuring the humidity level, mounted on said outlet pipe (26).
11. Installation (1) selon la revendication11. Installation (1) according to claim
9 ou la revendication 10, caractérisée en ce que les moyens de réhumidification (4) de l'air sec traité comportent de plus un clapet anti-retour (30) à perte de charge connue, monté sur ladite canalisation principale d'air sec (28).9 or claim 10, characterized in that the rehumidification means (4) of the treated dry air further comprises a non-return valve (30) with known pressure drop, mounted on said main dry air pipe ( 28).
12. Installation (1) selon la revendication 11, caractérisée en ce que le clapet anti-retour (30) à perte de charge connue engendre -une baisse-" de pression ..dans. la canalisation principale d'air sec (28) d'environ 300 mbar.12. Installation (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that the non-return valve (30) with known pressure drop generates -a drop- "pressure .. in. The main dry air duct (28) about 300 mbar.
13. Installation (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 9 à 12, caractérisée en. 'Ce que les13. Installation (1) according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in. 'What the
- moyens de réhumidification (4) de l'air sec traité comportent de plus un clapet anti-retour (40) monté sur ladite canalisation d'air saturé en humidité (36) .- Rehumidification means (4) of the treated dry air further comprise a non-return valve (40) mounted on said air line saturated with humidity (36).
14. Installation (1) selon l'une quelconque des .-revendications 8- à 13,-- caractérisée --en ce, que les moyens de traitement (2) d'-air comprimé comportent :14. Installation (1) according to any one of.-Claims 8- to 13, - characterized --en, that the treatment means (2) of compressed air comprise:
- un filtre déshuileur (6) à 0,01 ppm ; - un sécheur par adsorption (11) avec un point de rosée à -73 °C ; - un filtre (13) à particules 1 micron ;- an oil separator filter (6) at 0.01 ppm; - an adsorption dryer (11) with a dew point at -73 ° C; - a filter (13) with 1 micron particles;
- un catalyseur (14) apte à transformer le monoxyde de carbone en dioxyde de carbone ;- a catalyst (14) capable of transforming carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide;
- un filtre (16) à charbon actif. - an activated carbon filter (16).
15. Installation (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 8 à 14, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comporte de plus, en sortie des moyens de traitement (2) de l'air comprimé, des moyens d'analyse (44) aptes à contrôler de manière permanente les quantités de monoxyde de carbone . et de dioxyde de carbone présentes dans l'air traité.15. Installation (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 14, characterized in that it further comprises, at the outlet of the treatment means (2) of the compressed air, analysis means (44) able to permanently control the amounts of carbon monoxide. and carbon dioxide present in the treated air.
16. Installation (1) selon la revendication 15, caractérisée en ce que les moyens d'analyse (44) communiquent avec les moyens de pilotage (48) aptes à commander un déclenchement d'une alarme sonore et/ou visuelle, et/ou un . basculement vers une réserve d'air traité (50), et/ou un changement de source-' -d'air comprimé ..16. Installation (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that the analysis means (44) communicate with the control means (48) capable of controlling the triggering of an audible and / or visual alarm, and / or a . switching to a reserve of treated air (50), and / or a change of compressed air source.
17. Installation (1) selon l^une';---quelconque des revendications 8 à 16-, caractérisée ëή-Vce qu'elle est apte délivrer de— l' air - respirable à un taux de d'humidité compris entre--environ 40 et 50%.,17. Installation (1) according to ^ '; --- one of claims 8 to 16., characterized ëή-Vce it is capable of outputting de-air - breathing at a rate of moisture including Entre -about 40 and 50%.,
18. Installation selon l'une quelconque des revendications 8 à 17, caractérisée en ce qu'elle est reliée à au moins une combinaison ventilée d'un opérateur effectuant- des travaux de démantèlement -d'installations nucléaires. 18. Installation according to any one of claims 8 to 17, characterized in that it is connected to at least one ventilated combination of an operator performing- dismantling work -d'nuclear installations.
EP03717374A 2002-02-07 2003-02-05 Method and installation for producing breathable air Expired - Lifetime EP1471975B1 (en)

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FR0201485 2002-02-07
FR0201485A FR2835438B1 (en) 2002-02-07 2002-02-07 PROCESS AND PLANT FOR THE PRODUCTION OF BREATHABLE AIR
PCT/FR2003/000353 WO2003066167A2 (en) 2002-02-07 2003-02-05 Method and installation for producing breathable air

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EP1471975B1 EP1471975B1 (en) 2005-08-24

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AT (1) ATE302636T1 (en)
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ATE302636T1 (en) 2005-09-15
US20060060082A1 (en) 2006-03-23
DE60301390D1 (en) 2005-09-29
RU2301693C2 (en) 2007-06-27
RU2004126841A (en) 2005-07-10
WO2003066167A2 (en) 2003-08-14
EP1471975B1 (en) 2005-08-24
JP2005516700A (en) 2005-06-09
FR2835438B1 (en) 2004-04-23
WO2003066167A3 (en) 2004-03-25
DE60301390T2 (en) 2006-06-08
FR2835438A1 (en) 2003-08-08
US7309376B2 (en) 2007-12-18

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