RU2696697C2 - Control method of gas generator adsorption stage and gas generator using such method - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: chemistry.

SUBSTANCE: said gas generator has adsorbing material capable of selectively adsorbing the first gaseous component from the incoming gas stream containing the gas mixture and providing an outlet gas flow containing mainly the second gaseous component. Method includes stages: direction of incoming gas flow through inlet of gas generator; output gas flow rate measurement; determining concentration of said second gaseous component at outlet of said apparatus. Method further includes the steps of: A9) generator efficiency calculation; A10), comparison of measured flow rate of output gas with design capacity; A11) if the measured flow rate of the exhaust gas is less than the design capacity and if the set concentration is greater than or equal to the predetermined value, gas generator is maintained in the adsorption stage during a predetermined time interval Δs and after the specified time interval Δs, the gas generator is subjected to a regeneration cycle.

EFFECT: method of adjusting the stage of adsorption of a gas generator is disclosed.

25 cl, 2 tbl, 4 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to a method for controlling the adsorption stage of a gas generator, wherein said gas generator comprises adsorbent material capable of selectively adsorbing a first gaseous component from an inlet gas stream containing a gas mixture and thereby providing an outlet gas stream containing mainly a second gaseous component moreover, the specified method includes the following steps: supplying an incoming gas stream through the inlet of the gas generator; outlet gas flow measurement; determination of the concentration of the specified second gaseous component at the output of the specified apparatus (generator).

Methods for maintaining a relatively constant concentration of the gaseous component obtained by separating the gaseous mixture are known in the art.

One example can be found in patent document US4332370 (applicant is LINDE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT), which describes a cyclic adsorption process for separating a gaseous mixture. The method ensures that the level of residual concentration of the adsorbed component is maintained substantially constant by controlling the volumetric flow rate of the product discharged from the adsorber during the adsorption step.

One of the disadvantages of this method is a significant amount of energy used for adsorption. The fact is that with an increase in the duration of the adsorption stage, the performance of the system that implements the aforementioned process decreases. This is due to the need to process a larger volume of gas, and while one of the gaseous components is used after the adsorption process, the other gaseous component is trapped inside the adsorber, filling a larger volume of the apparatus and, in the end, saturates the adsorbent layer. This causes the device to consume more energy and, ultimately, to obtain a gaseous component with a lower concentration than necessary.

Another disadvantage is the low efficiency of the adsorption process, since the duration of the adsorption cycle does not meet the requirements for the achieved concentration of the gaseous component.

A possible undesirable situation identified is to obtain a lower concentration of the gaseous component than the required one, while the aforementioned patent document does not offer an immediate solution to the disadvantage, which may degrade the user process or parameters in the user network.

Considering the above-mentioned disadvantages and undesirable situations, the present invention is to provide a method for controlling the adsorption stage of the gas generator, during which the concentration of the gaseous component is maintained at the desired level, and at the same time, the energy consumption during the adsorption process is reduced.

Another objective of the present invention is to maintain improved energy efficiency when changing the consumed amount of the gaseous component.

Another objective of the invention is to provide a method that allows you to maintain a high level of energy efficiency during subsequent adsorption cycles.

Another objective of the present invention is to propose a method that ultimately reduces the operating costs of the entire system.

The present invention solves at least one of the above and / or other problems by providing a method for controlling the adsorption stage of a gas generator, said generator comprising at least one apparatus having an inlet and an outlet for passing a gas stream through the apparatus, an adsorbent material capable of selectively adsorb the first gaseous component from the gaseous mixture, and to provide an exhaust gas containing mainly the second gaseous component, and this method includes the following stages:

supplying a flow of incoming gas through the inlet of the gas generator;

measuring the flow rate of the exhaust gas using a flow meter installed at the exit of the specified apparatus;

determining (establishing) the concentration of said second gaseous component at the outlet of said apparatus;

wherein the method further includes the following steps:

Al) calculating the productivity of the apparatus, the indicated productivity being the maximum volume of the second gaseous component per unit time, which can be allotted at current operating parameters and for a given concentration of the second gaseous component;

A2) comparison of the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas with the calculated capacity;

A3) if the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas is lower than the calculated capacity and the established concentration is higher than or equal to a predetermined value, the apparatus is supported in the adsorption stage for a predetermined time interval Δs;

A4) the implementation of the regeneration cycle of the gas generator after the specified specified time interval ∆s.

In fact, by comparing the calculated capacity of the gas generator with the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas, as well as comparing the set concentration with a given concentration value, the method in accordance with the present invention gives an accurate idea of the operation mode of the apparatus at a certain point in time and maintains the desired concentration level of the second gaseous component at the output of the generator.

In addition, since the method takes into account the measured value of the outlet flow rate and the productivity of the gas generator, the saturation of the absorbent material is prevented, which allows the generator to work with high efficiency and maintain the required concentration of the second gaseous component during the entire adsorption process.

Tests have shown that the efficiency of the adsorption process decreases in the case of an extended duration of the adsorption cycle. Essentially, if the adsorption cycle is maintained for a relatively long period of time, a larger gas flow enters the gas generator, and an increasing number of oxygen molecules will be adsorbed by the adsorbent.

As a result, the oxygen front created in the adsorbent layer will move in the direction of the apparatus exit. Because of this, the concentration level of the second gaseous component at the outlet may vary. In this case, the performance of the gas generator decreases, and the reliability of the adsorption process decreases.

Since the method according to the present invention includes not only comparing the concentration of the second gaseous component at the outlet of the gas generator with a predetermined value, but also comparing the calculated capacity of the generator with the outlet flow rate before changing the time interval during which the adsorption stage is maintained in the generator, this ensures the desired the concentration of the second gaseous component, and optimal energy consumption is achieved during the entire functioning of the generator gas torus.

Another well-known fact is that gas generators are designed to operate in the most severe and harsh operating conditions when it comes to parameters such as temperature and pressure. And, if these parameters fluctuate, for example, due to changing seasons or the use of a generator in another geographical area, the generator becomes too large. Known generators will not be able to solve this problem, but the method in accordance with the present invention can effectively use the energy of the generator regardless of changes in the mentioned parameters.

Indeed, the tests showed that in the practical implementation of the method in accordance with the present invention, the generator consumes 40% less energy.

Another established fact is that in a typical production line, the required concentration and volume of the second gaseous component usually change, and the method in accordance with the present invention allows the apparatus to maintain the adsorption stage for a predetermined time interval, which is determined based on the desired concentration and the volume of the second gaseous component. In this regard, the current performance of the gas generator is adjusted to ensure lower energy consumption through an efficient workflow.

Preferably, after the specified predetermined time interval has elapsed, the apparatus is subjected to a regeneration cycle, during which the molecules of the first gaseous component are removed from the generator and the adsorbent layer is brought to its initial state with the given characteristics of the adsorbent.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method further includes the step of comparing the set concentration with a predetermined value, and if said concentration is lower than a predetermined value, the incoming gas stream is interrupted and the apparatus undergoes a regeneration cycle. As a result, the desired concentration of the second gaseous component is maintained at the desired level.

The inlet gas stream can be interrupted immediately after a comparison of the set concentration and the set concentration value shows a negative result, or in accordance with the method according to the present invention, the inlet gas stream is interrupted after the nominal predetermined cycle time ΔSo calculated from the start of the adsorption cycle.

The present invention further relates to a gas generator comprising:

at least one apparatus comprising an inlet and an outlet for passing a gas stream through the apparatus, and an adsorbent material capable of selectively adsorbing a first gaseous component from the gaseous mixture, thereby allowing an outlet gas stream containing substantially the second gaseous component to pass through said outlet;

- means for creating a flow of incoming gas at the entrance to the specified apparatus;

wherein said device (gas generator) further comprises:

- a flow meter located at the outlet of the apparatus, designed to measure the flow rate of the outgoing gas;

- means for determining the concentration of the specified second gaseous component, placed at the outlet of the apparatus;

- a controller unit connected to the flowmeter and means for determining the concentration of the second gaseous component, while the specified controller is configured to receive the measured values of the flow rate of the outgoing gas and the measured concentration;

said controller unit further comprises a processing unit provided with an algorithm for:

- calculating the productivity of the apparatus, and the indicated productivity is the maximum volume of the second gaseous component per unit time, which can be allotted at current operating parameters and for a given concentration of the second gaseous component;

- comparing the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas with the estimated capacity,

- comparing the established concentration of said second gaseous component with a predetermined concentration value; and besides,

said controller unit is programmed to maintain the inlet gas flow rate for a predetermined time interval ∆s if the measured concentration is equal to or exceeds a predetermined value and if said measured outlet gas flow rate is lower than the calculated capacity, and to perform a regeneration cycle in the apparatus after the specified predetermined time interval has elapsed Δs.

Thanks to the indicated capabilities of the controller, the user of such a device can get the best end result with reduced power consumption and the advantages of a user-friendly interface.

In addition, since the generator is controlled by the specified controller and the above specified sequence of operations (logic) is applied, operating costs are reduced, since the generator components are protected from operation in extreme conditions, which could lead to premature wear. When all unwanted parameter changes occur, the controller unit provides the necessary assistance at the most accurately calculated time in accordance with the design of the device so that its service life is increased.

To better disclose the characteristic features of the invention, below, as an example, some preferred embodiments are described in accordance with the present invention, in no way limiting the scope of the invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 is a diagram of a gas generator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 and 3 are diagrams of a gas generator in accordance with other embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 4 - graphical dependence of energy consumption on the flow rate of the output stream.

Figure 1 shows a gas generator 1, comprising an inlet pipe 2 and an outlet pipe 3 for allowing gas to flow through the generator. Said gas generator further comprises an adsorbent material (not shown) capable of selectively adsorbing a first gaseous component from an inlet gas stream containing a gaseous mixture, whereby the outlet gas stream contains mainly a second gaseous component.

In the context of the present invention, it should be understood that adsorption also includes absorption.

The object of the present invention is a method for controlling the adsorption stage of a gas generator, in which the incoming gas stream is directed through the inlet pipe 2 of the gas generator 1, and the flow rate of the exhaust gas in the outlet pipe 3 of the gas generator 1 is measured to determine the concentration of said second gaseous component in the outlet pipe of the apparatus four.

In addition, the method includes the stage at which the productivity of the generator is calculated, and the calculated value is compared with the measured flow rate of the output stream. If, according to the results of this comparison, the measured outlet flow rate will be less than the calculated capacity of the generator and if the found calculated concentration is greater than or equal to the specified concentration, the gas generator 1 is maintained in the adsorption stage for a predetermined time interval, ∆s.

In the context of the present invention, the performance of the generator should be understood as the maximum volume of the second gaseous component per unit time that can be produced by the gas generator 1 under existing operating conditions and at a given concentration of the second component.

In addition, the flow rate of the effluent should be understood as the measured volume of the first and second gaseous component per unit time.

Preferably, the aforementioned predetermined time interval Δs is calculated so that the specified predetermined concentration value can be maintained in the gas generator 1 and, accordingly, so that the adsorbent material does not become completely saturated. In this regard, in the gas generator 1, the adsorption stage is maintained as long as possible, in the absence of an undesirable decrease in the concentration level of the obtained second gaseous component and the consumption of the specified gas generator 1 more energy than is necessary to obtain the optimal result.

After the said predetermined time interval Δs has elapsed, the gas generator undergoes a regeneration cycle. When the regeneration cycle is carried out, the first gaseous component is removed from the adsorbing material of gas molecules, which gives the indicated adsorbent optimal adsorption ability and prepares the gas generator 1 for the next adsorption cycle.

In the context of the present invention, the adsorption cycle should be understood as the time interval during which the adsorbent material located in the gas generator 1 is used to separate the gas mixture entering the gas generator through the inlet pipe 2 and, accordingly, adsorbs the first gaseous component and allows passage through an outlet pipe 3 of gas containing mainly a second gaseous component.

Preferably, said predetermined time interval Δs includes a start point corresponding to the start time of the adsorption cycle in the gas generator 1, and an end point as the end time of the adsorption cycle in the gas generator 1.

In another embodiment in accordance with the present invention, said predetermined time interval Δs has a starting point at a current point in time and an ending point in perspective, determined based on a calculated productivity, a measured flow rate in the outlet pipe and a predetermined concentration value of said second gaseous component. Such a final point in time can be determined approximately based on the typical operational properties of the absorbent material.

In another embodiment, in accordance with the present invention, the method further includes the step of comparing the set concentration with the set value, and if the specified concentration is lower than the set value, the flow of incoming gas is interrupted and a regeneration cycle is carried out in the generator.

The inlet gas stream may be interrupted immediately if the comparison shows that a predetermined concentration is not achieved, or the method may allow for a tolerance of, for example, about 5 seconds or more before the inlet gas stream is interrupted. Preferably, the method includes the step of interrupting the flow of incoming gas after a nominal predetermined duration of the cycle time ΔS ₀ . The indicated nominal predetermined cycle time ΔS ₀ is the calculated minimum time interval in which, under commonly practiced operating conditions, the generator 1 can generate a second gaseous component with a relatively high concentration.

Indicated nominal preset cycle time, ∆S₀, has as the starting point the start point in the gas generator 1 adsorption cycle, and the end point is the time the gas generator ends 1 adsorption cycle.

Preferably, the performance of the generator is determined from the following relationship:

Q cap = specific productivity x generator volume x Kpc x Ktc,

where Kpc is the correction factor for determining the performance, taking into account the influence of pressure, and Ktc is the correction temperature coefficient for determining the performance.

In the context of the present invention, the indicated specific productivity should be understood as the productivity of the gas generator 1, referred to a cubic meter of absorbent material in nominal pressure and temperature conditions, for example, at a pressure of about 7 bar and a temperature of about 20 ° C, which are not parameters limiting the invention .

Kpc and Ktc are two correction factors that depend on a given concentration value of the second gaseous component and the actual temperature or pressure, respectively, measured near the generator.

Preferably, said temperature is measured with a temperature sensor T, and pressure is measured with a pressure sensor P.

Preferably, the method in accordance with the present invention further includes the step of comparing a time interval during which the generator is in the adsorption step, Δt _l , with a minimum predetermined time interval Δt ₂ .

In this case, ∆t _l is a countdown, which preferably begins when the adsorption cycle begins in gas generator 1, and is defined as ∆t _l = tc - ti, where tc is the current time and ti is the initial time.

Preferably, the method includes the step of resetting the timing in the event of the start of the adsorption cycle in gas generator 1. More specifically, the method preferably includes the step of resetting the values of tc and ti if the adsorption cycle begins in generator 1.

The parameter Δt ₂ is a countdown, which preferably begins with the start of the adsorption cycle in the gas generator 1 and is defined as Δt ₂ = td - ti, where td is the minimum time during which the adsorption cycle is maintained in the gas generator, regardless of the values of other parameters, and ti is the initial time, i.e. the point in time when the adsorption cycle begins in gas generator 1.

Preferably, the method includes the step of resetting the time taken along with the start of the adsorption cycle 1 in the gas generator. More specifically, the method preferably includes a step of resetting the value of ti when an adsorption cycle begins in the gas generator 1, and the value of td is preferably kept constant.

After the step of comparing Δt _l with Δt _{2, the} method includes the stage of or maintaining the gas generator 1 in the adsorption stage for a predetermined time interval if Δt _l > Δt ₂ and if the set concentration is greater than or equal to the specified set value and if the measured flow rate the output stream is lower than the design capacity; or maintaining the gas generator 1 in an adsorption step for a nominal predetermined cycle time ΔS ₀ ; and then the gas generator 1 undergoes a regeneration cycle if Δt _l <= Δt ₂ or if the concentration found is below a predetermined value and if the measured outlet flow rate is lower than the calculated capacity of the gas generator.

Preferably, but not by way of limitation, the first gaseous component is oxygen and the second gaseous component is nitrogen.

The method in accordance with the present invention also includes the step of supplying an incoming gas stream through the inlet 5 of at least one apparatus 4, which is part of a generator 1.

Preferably, the method further alternatively includes directing the flow of incoming gas through the inlet 5 of at least two devices 4 (FIG. 2) or through the inlet of at least four devices 4 (FIG. 3) or more.

Since the method includes an alternative stage, in which the flow of incoming gas is directed through the inlet 5 of two devices 4 or four devices 4 or more, the efficiency of the adsorption process increases due to the fact that, as soon as a regeneration cycle is carried out in one device 4, for the working process another apparatus 4 should be used, i.e. the process of obtaining a second gaseous component discharged through the outlet pipe 3 of the gas generator 1 is not interrupted.

In another embodiment, in which the regeneration cycle is carried out in one apparatus 4, the flow of gas exiting from one apparatus 4 is directed to the input 5 of at least another apparatus 4. In this case, the apparatus 4, which is in the regeneration stage, will receive at the output 6 a gaseous mixture, which will contain a relatively high concentration of the second gaseous component, while the specified gaseous mixture will displace the gaseous contents of the regenerated apparatus in the direction of the apparatus inlet, and then into the external environment Through the valve 11 or a gas valve or similar device located near the inlet 5 of the apparatus 4. This allows the regeneration of the indicated apparatus 4 in a short period of time and it is better to prepare it for the next adsorption cycle.

Another possible stage, carried out according to the method corresponding to the present invention, is to compare the flow rate at the outlet with the estimated capacity and maintaining the flow rate of the inlet stream for a given time interval, if the flow rate of the outlet stream exceeds the first threshold value relative to the calculated capacity of the gas generator. In this regard, the optimal functioning of the gas generator 1 is carried out, which further reduces energy consumption. Preferably, but not by way of limitation, the method uses at least one threshold value, and further the method includes at least one of the following steps:

- maintaining the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined nominal time interval ΔSo, if the measured flow rate of the outlet stream exceeds the first threshold value when comparing with the calculated capacity; or

- maintaining the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined first time interval ΔS ₁ if the measured flow rate of the outgoing stream is less than the specified first threshold value when compared with the calculated capacity.

Preferably, but not by way of limitation, the method uses one or more of the set thresholds, and the method further includes at least one of the following steps:

- maintaining the flow rate of the inlet gas for a predetermined nominal time interval ΔSo if the measured flow rate of the outlet stream exceeds the first threshold value with respect to the calculated capacity; or

- maintaining the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined first time interval, ΔS ₁ , if the measured flow rate of the outgoing stream is less than the specified first threshold value when compared with the estimated capacity; or

- maintaining the flow rate of the inlet gas for a predetermined second time interval ΔS ₂ if the measured flow rate of the outlet stream is below the second threshold value when compared with the design capacity; or

- maintaining the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined third time interval ΔS ₃ if the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas is less than the third threshold value when compared with the design capacity.

Thanks to the application of the algorithm described above (sequence of operations), the efficiency of the system increases even more.

Preferably, two or more of the above time intervals have a different duration compared to each other.

Preferably, but not by way of limitation, the specified nominal time interval ΔSo can be selected in the range from 15 to 65 seconds, or from 20 to 65 seconds, or from 20 to 45 seconds.

Preferably, but not by way of limitation, said predefined first time interval ΔS ₁ may be selected in the range of 45 to 85 seconds or 45 to 60 seconds.

Preferably, but not by way of limitation, said predetermined second time interval ΔS ₂ can be selected in the range from 60 to 120 seconds or from 60 to 80 seconds.

Preferably, but not by way of limitation, said predetermined third time interval ΔS ₃ can be selected in the range from 80 to 300 seconds or from 80 to 180 seconds.

In the context of the present invention, it should be understood that the above time intervals are only examples, and other values of these intervals can also be used.

Preferably, but not by way of limitation, the first threshold value can be selected about 80% more than the design capacity, said second threshold value can be selected about 60% more, and the third threshold value can be selected about 40% more.

In the context of the present invention, it should be understood that the above thresholds are only examples and other thresholds may be used.

In another embodiment in accordance with the present invention, the method further comprises at least one of the following steps:

maintaining the flow rate of the inlet gas for a predetermined nominal time interval Δp ₀ if the measured flow rate of the outlet stream is greater than or equal to the first threshold value when compared with the design capacity; or

maintaining the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined first time interval Δp ₁ if the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas stream is less than the specified first threshold value when compared with the design capacity; or

maintaining the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined second time interval Δp ₂ if the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas stream is less than the second threshold value when compared with the design capacity; or

maintaining the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined third time interval Δp ₃ if the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas stream is less than the third threshold value when compared with the design capacity; or

maintaining the flow rate of the inlet gas for a predetermined fourth time interval Δp ₄ , the interval if the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas stream is less than the fourth threshold value when compared with the calculated capacity; or

maintaining the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined fifth time interval Δp ₅ , if the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas stream is less than the fifth threshold value when compared with the calculated capacity; or

maintaining the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined sixth time interval Δp ₆ , if the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas stream is less than the sixth threshold value when compared with the design capacity; or

maintaining the flow rate of the inlet gas for a predetermined seventh time interval Δp ₇ , the interval if the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas stream is less than the seventh threshold value when compared with the calculated capacity; or

maintaining the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined eighth time interval Δp ₈ , if the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas stream is less than the eighth threshold value when compared with the calculated capacity; or

maintaining the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined ninth time interval Δp ₉ if the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas stream is less than the ninth threshold value when compared with the calculated capacity.

Preferably, two or more of the above time intervals have different durations compared to each other.

Preferably two or more time intervals: ΔS ₀ , ΔS ₁ , ΔS ₂ , ΔS ₃ and Δp ₁ , Δp ₂ , Δp ₃ , Δp ₄ , Δp ₅ , Δp ₆ , Δp ₇ , Δp ₈ , Δp ₉ and Δp ₁₀ have different time durations in comparison with each other so that, depending on the flow rate of the outlet stream and the design capacity, the adsorbent material will provide the generator with the ability to operate under optimal conditions for various time intervals, depending on the threshold value reached or not reached.

Preferably, but not by way of limitation, said predetermined nominal time interval Δp ₀ may be selected in the range of 15 to 50 seconds; the specified predefined first time interval Δp ₁ can be selected in the range from 30 to 60 seconds; a predetermined second time interval Δp ₂ can be selected in the range from 40 to 70 seconds; the specified predetermined third time interval Δp ₃ can be selected in the range from 50 to 80 seconds; the specified pre-selected fourth time interval Δp ₄ can be selected in the range from 60 to 90 seconds; said predefined fifth time interval Δp ₅ may be selected in the range from 70 to 100 seconds; the specified pre-selected sixth time interval Δp ₆ can be selected in the range from 80 to 130 seconds; the specified predetermined seventh time interval Δp ₇ can be selected in the range from 90 to 150 seconds; the specified predefined eighth time interval Δp ₈ can be selected in the range from 100 to 200 seconds; and said predefined ninth time interval Δp ₉ can be selected in the range from 110 to 300 seconds.

In the context of the present invention, it should be understood that the above time intervals are only examples, and other values of the intervals can be used.

Preferably, said thresholds and time intervals are calculated based on the type and size of the generator 1, as well as the type and volume of the absorbent material.

Preferably, but not by way of limitation, said first threshold value can be selected about 90% more than the design capacity, said second threshold value can be selected about 80% more, said third threshold value can be selected about 70% more, said the fourth threshold value can be selected about 60% more, the specified fifth threshold value can be selected about 50% more, the specified sixth threshold value can be selected about 40% more e, said seventh threshold value can be selected about 30% more, said eighth threshold value can be selected about 20% more, and said ninth threshold value can be selected about 10% more.

In the context of the present invention, it should be understood that the above threshold values are only examples, and other values can be used.

Thanks to the inclusion of the mentioned stages in the method, the process of obtaining the second gaseous component is precisely and quickly adapted to the required flow rate in the outlet pipe 3 and the undesirable use of a gas generator 1 having insufficient or too large dimensions for the required performance is eliminated. As a result, the gas generator will operate with optimal parameters in the entire operating range. Another recognized advantage is the reduced inlet gas flow rate.

In the context of the present invention, it should be understood that the number of intervals can vary, for example, from two to twenty or even more, depending on the performance of the gas generator and the desired end results.

In another embodiment in accordance with the present invention, the method can be carried out continuously, while cycle times are obtained continuously by interpolation between certain predetermined points (points in time). For this reason, greater energy consumption can be recorded (FIG. 4).

In yet another embodiment in accordance with the invention, the method may further include the step of maintaining in one apparatus 4 a regeneration cycle in a time interval that depends on the size of the interval during which the adsorption cycle is maintained in said apparatus and / or on a predetermined concentration of the second gaseous component .

As an example, not limiting the invention, in the case where the time interval during which the adsorption cycle is maintained in the apparatus 4 is increased, preferably the interval during which the regeneration cycle is maintained in the apparatus 4 is also increased.

Typically, but not by way of limitation, the nominal time interval during which the regeneration cycle is maintained in apparatus 4 may be approximately 30 seconds, and such a time interval may be increased to approximately 60 seconds or more.

Preferably, the regeneration cycle can be carried out using an installed flow control valve or an installed throttle, such as a nozzle or throttle opening, or with a valve that can be opened and closed, or said regeneration cycle can be carried out using a flow regulator that can regulate the volume of gas removed through it.

Since during the regeneration cycle both the first gaseous component and the second gaseous component are removed from apparatus 4, by extending the time interval during which the regeneration cycle is maintained, a larger volume of gas containing a high concentration of the second gaseous component can be removed from said apparatus 4 . However, if a flow regulator or valve, which can be opened and closed, is used to regulate the mentioned time interval and, therefore, the total volume of the regeneration gas, this volume is reduced to a minimum, and apparatus 4 is effectively prepared for the next adsorption cycle.

The object of the present invention, in addition, is a gas generator 1 containing at least one device 4 (Fig. 1), and the specified device 4 has an input 5 and an output 6. The gas generator allows the gas mixture to pass through the specified input 5, using an absorbent material (not shown) captures the first gaseous component and allows the flow of gas containing mainly the second gaseous component to pass through outlet 6.

The gas generator 1, in addition, is equipped with a flow meter 7 installed at the outlet 6 of the apparatus and designed to measure the volume of the first and second gaseous component coming out of the apparatus 4 per unit time.

The gas generator 1 further comprises a module 8 for determining the concentration of the second gaseous component, while this module is also located at the output 6 of the apparatus 4.

Preferably, but not by way of limitation, module 8 measures the concentration of the first gaseous component in the effluent gas stream and determines the concentration of the second gaseous component by subtracting the measured concentration from 100.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, said first gaseous component is oxygen and a second gaseous component is nitrogen.

Preferably, but not by way of limitation, module 8 is an oxygen sensor that detects the amount of oxygen contained in the gas at the outlet 6 of apparatus 4. The oxygen sensor can measure the oxygen concentration in the outlet gas stream continuously or at a specific sampling frequency.

Preferably, said module 8 is included in the gas generator 1. The gas generator 1 further comprises a controller unit 9, connected by wire or wireless connection to the flowmeter 7 and the module 8 for determining the concentration of the second gaseous component, said controller being configured to receive the measured values of the output stream gas and measured concentration.

The controller unit 9 may further comprise a memory unit for storing the received measured concentration values or may send these measured values via wired or wireless communication to an external electronic module. Said wireless communication may be implemented via a radio signal or a Wi-Fi signal. Preferably, for communication, the gas generator 1 comprises a wireless receiver (not shown).

For clarity, wire connections are not shown in the figures.

In addition, said controller may receive measurement data immediately, as measurements are taken, or within a certain time interval. It can also accept all measurement results or can take only one measurement after a certain time interval. In addition, these measurements can be performed continuously or at a specific sampling frequency.

Preferably, said controller unit 9 further comprises a data processing unit provided with an algorithm for calculating the productivity of the apparatus 4, comparing the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas stream with the calculated capacity, and comparing the found concentration of said second gaseous component with a predetermined value.

The indicated productivity of the apparatus 4 should be understood as the maximum volume of the second gaseous component per unit of time, which can be implemented at output 6, at current operating parameters and a given concentration value of the second gaseous component.

In another preferred embodiment, the time slots and thresholds described herein are stored in a memory unit. Preferably, such time intervals and threshold values are determined before the operation of said gas generator 1.

Preferably, the controller unit 9 is also programmed to maintain an inlet gas flow rate for a predetermined time interval Δs if the indicated measured concentration is equal to or exceeds a predetermined value, and if said measured outlet gas flow rate is less than the design capacity of the gas generator.

In another preferred embodiment, in accordance with the present invention, the controller unit 9 is further programmed to maintain the inlet gas flow rate at the inlet 5 of the apparatus 4 for a predetermined nominal cycle time interval, Δs ₀ , and to interrupt the inlet gas flow after said predetermined nominal time period has elapsed. the cycle interval, ∆s ₀ , in case the indicated measured concentration is less than the specified value. To prepare the apparatus 4 for another adsorption cycle, the controller unit 9 is additionally programmed to apply the regeneration cycle to the specified apparatus 4 after the specified predetermined time interval ∆s or a predetermined nominal duration of the cycle time, ∆s ₀ , respectively.

To increase the efficiency of the adsorption process, the gas generator 1 in accordance with the present invention preferably comprises at least two apparatus 4, each of which has an inlet 5 and an outlet 6 for allowing gas to pass through the generator and contains adsorbent material (not shown) capable of selectively adsorbing from the gaseous mixture, the first gaseous component, as a result, through the outlet 6 passes a gas stream containing mainly the second gaseous component.

In a preferred embodiment in accordance with the present invention, each of said apparatuses 4 comprises a flowmeter 7 and a module 8 for determining the concentration of the second gaseous component, located downstream of 6 of each apparatus.

In another embodiment in accordance with the present invention, the outputs 6 of all devices are connected to form a common output, and said common output is further provided with a flow meter 7 and module 8 for determining the concentration of the second gaseous component.

Preferably, said controller unit 9 is furthermore programmed to selectively supply an incoming gas stream to an input 5 of one of the at least two devices 4.

In another preferred embodiment, the apparatus 4 is further provided with a valve 10 installed in front of the inlet 5 to allow the passage of the incoming gas flow into the adsorbent material located in the specified apparatus 4. Preferably, each of the above-mentioned devices 4 contains a valve 10 allowing the passage of the incoming flow gas into the absorbent material.

Preferably, said controller unit 9 is programmed to open and close each of said valves 10 whenever the incoming gas stream is to come into contact with absorbent material in one of said apparatus 4.

Preferably, but not by way of limitation, the controller unit 9 is programmed to open said valves 10 so that only one device 4 will be in the adsorption step at a time.

Preferably, the controller unit 9 opens the exhaust valve 12 simultaneously with the valve 10 of each respective apparatus.

The controller unit 9 preferably recalculates the specific productivity of the generator 1 based on the temperature and pressure measurements made by the temperature sensor T and pressure sensor P.

The gas generator 1 in accordance with the present invention, in addition, a branch 11 can be provided that allows each of the at least two devices 4 to release gas into the external environment.

Preferably, said connecting element 11 installed in the branch may be a valve, or a gas valve, or the like.

Preferably, the controller unit 9 is also programmed to start a regeneration cycle in one of the at least two adsorption apparatuses 4 and selectively direct the flow of incoming gas through one of the at least two other apparatuses 4 in which the regeneration is performed (Fig. 3). Preferably this is done using a valve 10 installed at the inlet of the apparatus 4.

In another embodiment in accordance with the present invention, the controller unit 9 is further programmed to measure a time interval Δt _l , during which one of the at least two devices 4 is in the adsorption stage, and compare the measured time interval with a minimum predetermined time interval, Δ t ₂ , and:

if ∆t _l > ∆t ₂ and if the measured concentration is equal to or exceeds a predetermined value and the said measured flow rate of the outgoing gas stream is less than the calculated capacity, then the controller unit 9 maintains the flow rate of the incoming gas for the specified predetermined time interval, ∆s; or

if Δt _l <= Δt ₂ , and if the measured concentration is equal to or exceeds a predetermined value and the said measured outlet flow rate is less than the calculated capacity, then the controller unit 9 maintains the inlet gas flow rate for the specified predetermined nominal cycle time interval, Δs ₀ .

Preferably, but not by way of limitation, each of the at least two apparatus 4 comprises an absorbent material comprising carbon molecular sieves.

In another preferred embodiment, the inlet gas stream may come from the output of the compressor unit 12 ', and the outlet gas stream may be directed to the user network 13.

Preferably, but not by way of limitation, the exhaust gas stream reaches a nitrogen receiver (not shown) before it is routed to said user network 13.

In another embodiment in accordance with the present invention, the concentration of said second gaseous component is determined downstream of said nitrogen receiver and in front of the user network 13.

If the concentration found is below a predetermined value, the nitrogen receiver is preferably subjected to a purge cycle. During such a purge cycle, the gaseous mixture contained in the nitrogen receiver is vented to the external environment. Preferably, said purging cycle is carried out by opening a valve mounted at the outlet of the nitrogen receiver.

In another preferred embodiment in accordance with the present invention, the gas generator 1 further comprises a user interface (not shown), preferably connected to the controller unit 9.

Using the specified user interface, the user of the gas generator 1 in accordance with the present invention can select various parameters so that the outlet gas flow rate meets the requirements of the user network, and, in particular, a parameter from the group including said predetermined concentration value of the second gaseous component, energy consumption in a gas generator, the use of a compressor unit or other generator of an incoming gas stream, type of absorbent material used, quantities used devices, or any combination of these parameters.

The specified user interface may be in the form of a touch screen with various selections, or in the form of potentiometers allowing the user to make different selections, or in the form of hand-operated connecting elements, such as valves or lever switches, allowing the user to complete the gas generator 1 in accordance with his requirements.

The specified user interface may be an integral part of the gas generator 1 or may form part of an external electronic module connected to the specified generator 1 via wired or wireless communication.

The object of the present invention, in addition, is a controller unit, comprising: means 7 for measuring the flow rate of the exhaust gas at the outlet 6 of the regenerated apparatus 4, means for determining the concentration 8 of the second gaseous component at the outlet 6 of the regenerated apparatus 4, a processing unit for comparing the measurement data with the given values and regulation of the time interval during which the gas flow is directed through the input 5 of the said apparatus 4, while the said controller is configured to use in a gas generator in accordance with the present invention.

Example 1 (non-limiting) of the pressure-correcting correction factor Kpc for productivity, preferably obtained by interpolation, in accordance with the following table:

Krs Pressure bar For the first given
concentration values
magnitude For the second given
concentration values four 0.56 0.52 4,5 0.63 0.60 five 0.71 0.67 5.5 0.77 0.75 6 0.85 0.83 6.5 0.93 0.91 7 1.00 1.00 7.5 1,07 1,04 eight 1.13 1.09 8.5 1.19 1,11 9 1.25 1.13 9.5 1.30 1.15 ten 1.35 1.16 10.5 1.40 1.17 eleven 1.45 1.18 11.5 1,50 1.20 12 1,54 1.21 12.5 1,58 1.23 13 1,61 1.25

Said first predetermined concentration value refers to a predetermined concentration value of the second gaseous component, which may preferably be selected in the range from 95 to 99.5%.

The specified second predetermined concentration value refers to the predetermined value of the second gaseous component, which can preferably be selected in the range from 99.5 to 99.999%.

Example 2 (non-limiting) correction temperature coefficient Ktc for calculating productivity, preferably obtained by interpolation, in accordance with the following table:

Ktc Temperature, ^о С For the first given
concentration values
magnitude For the second given
concentration values five 1.00 1,02 ten 1.00 1,02 15 1.00 1.00 20 1.00 1.00 25 0.98 0.96 thirty 0.95 0.93 35 0.92 0.88 40 0.88 0.83 45 0.83 0.78 50 0.78 0.72 55 0.72 0.67 60 0.66 0.62

Moreover, said first predetermined concentration value refers to a predetermined concentration value of the second gaseous component, which can preferably be selected in the range from 95 to 99.5%.

The specified second predetermined concentration value refers to the predetermined value of the second gaseous component, which can preferably be selected in the range from 99.5 to 99.999%.

The present invention is in no way limited to the embodiments described by way of example and illustrated in the drawings, but the proposed gas generator can be implemented in all kinds of variants without going beyond the scope of the invention.

Claims (66)

1. A method of controlling the adsorption stage of a gas generator, characterized in that said gas generator comprises at least one apparatus having an inlet and an outlet for passing a gas stream through the apparatus, and an adsorbent material capable of selectively adsorbing a first gaseous component from the gas mixture and providing the flow of the exhaust gas containing mainly the second gaseous component, while this method includes the stages in which: - direct the flow of incoming gas through the inlet of the specified apparatus; - measure the volume of the second gaseous component per unit time using a flow meter installed at the output of the specified apparatus; - determine the concentration of the specified second gaseous component at the outlet of the specified apparatus; moreover, the method further includes the stages in which: A1) calculate the productivity of the apparatus, and the specified productivity is the maximum volume of the second gaseous component per unit time, which can be allocated at current operating parameters and for a given concentration of the second gaseous component; A2) compare the measured volume of the second gaseous component with the calculated capacity; A3) if the measured volume of the second gaseous component is lower than the calculated capacity and the established concentration is higher than or equal to a predetermined value, this apparatus is maintained in the adsorption step for a predetermined time interval Δs; A4) carry out the regeneration cycle of the apparatus after the specified predefined time interval ∆s. 2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of comparing the set concentration with a predetermined value, and if the indicated concentration is less than the specified set value, the flow of incoming gas is interrupted, and the apparatus is subjected to a regeneration cycle. 3. The method according to claim 2, further comprising a stage at which the incoming gas flow is interrupted after a predetermined nominal cycle time Δs ₀ . 4. The method according to claim 1, in which the performance of the generator is determined by the following formula: Qcap = specific productivity x generator volume x Kpc x Ktc, where Kpc is the correction factor for determining the performance, taking into account the pressure, and Ktc is the correction temperature coefficient for determining the performance. 5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, which further includes the stage of comparing the length of time Δt _l , during which the apparatus is in the adsorption stage, with a minimum specified time interval Δt ₂ . 6. The method according to PP.2 and 5, which includes one of the following stages: - if Δt _l > Δt ₂ and the measured outlet flow rate is less than the specified design capacity, and the specified concentration is greater than or equal to the specified set value, then the apparatus is supported in the adsorption step for the specified predetermined time interval Δs; or - if Δtl <= Δt2 or if the set concentration is less than the specified set value and the measured flow rate of the output stream is less than the calculated capacity, then the apparatus is supported in the adsorption stage for a predetermined nominal cycle time Δs ₀ , and then the apparatus is subjected to a regeneration cycle. 7. The method according to claim 1, in which the first gaseous component is oxygen, and the second gaseous component is nitrogen. 8. The method according to claim 1, in which additionally direct the flow of incoming gas through the inlet of at least one apparatus, which is part of the specified generator. 9. The method of claim 8, in which additionally, as an alternative, direct the flow of incoming gas through the inlet of at least two devices. 10. The method according to claim 9, in which additionally direct the flow of exhaust gas from one apparatus to the input of at least another apparatus during the regeneration cycle. 11. The method according to claim 1, in which the flow rate of the outgoing stream is compared with the design capacity and the flow rate of the incoming stream is maintained for a predetermined time interval if the flow rate of the outgoing stream exceeds a first threshold value with respect to the specified design capacity. 12. The method according to claim 11, which further includes at least one of the following stages, in which: - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined nominal time interval Δs ₀ if the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas stream exceeds the first threshold value with respect to the specified design capacity; or - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined first time interval Δs ₁ if the measured flow rate of the outgoing gas is less than the specified first threshold value when compared with the calculated capacity. 13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, which further includes at least one of the following stages, in which: - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined nominal time interval Δs ₀ if the measured flow rate of the output stream is greater than the first threshold value when comparing with the calculated capacity; or - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined first time interval Δs ₁ if the measured flow rate of the output stream is less than the specified first threshold value when compared with the estimated capacity; or - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined second time interval Δs ₂ if the measured flow rate of the outgoing stream is less than the second threshold value when compared with the calculated capacity; or - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined third time interval Δs ₃ if the measured flow rate of the outgoing stream is less than the third threshold value when compared with the estimated capacity. 14. The method according to claim 11 or 12, which further comprises at least one of the following stages, in which: - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined nominal time interval Δp ₀ if the measured flow rate of the output stream is greater than or equal to the first threshold value when compared with the estimated capacity; or - maintain the flow rate of the inlet gas for a predetermined first time interval Δp ₁ if the measured flow rate of the outlet stream is less than the specified first threshold value when compared with the estimated capacity; or - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined second time interval Δp ₂ if the measured flow rate of the output stream is less than the second threshold value when compared with the estimated capacity; or - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined third time interval Δp ₃ if the measured flow rate of the output stream is less than the third threshold value when compared with the estimated capacity; or - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined fourth time interval Δp ₄ if the measured flow rate of the output stream is less than the fourth threshold value when compared with the calculated capacity; or - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined fifth time interval Δp ₅ if the measured flow rate of the outgoing stream is less than the fifth threshold value when compared with the calculated capacity; or - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined sixth time interval Δp ₆ if the measured flow rate of the output stream is less than the sixth threshold value when compared with the estimated capacity; or - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined seventh time interval Δp ₇ if the measured flow rate of the output stream is less than the seventh threshold value when compared with the estimated capacity; or - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined eighth time interval Δp ₈ if the measured flow rate of the output stream is less than the eighth threshold value when compared with the estimated capacity; or - maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined ninth time interval Δp ₉ if the measured flow rate of the output stream is less than the ninth threshold value when compared with the estimated capacity. 15. The method according to claims 12-14, wherein two or more timeslots have different durations compared to each other. 16. A gas generator containing: at least one apparatus having an inlet and an outlet for passing a gas stream through the apparatus, and an adsorbent material capable of selectively adsorbing a first gaseous component from the gaseous mixture, thereby allowing an outlet gas stream containing substantially the second gaseous component to pass through said outlet; - means for creating a flow of incoming gas at the entrance to the specified apparatus; wherein said device further comprises: - a flow meter located at the outlet of the apparatus, designed to measure the volume of the second gaseous component; - means for determining the concentration of the specified second gaseous component, placed at the outlet of the apparatus; - a controller unit connected to the flowmeter and means for determining the concentration of the second gaseous component, while the specified controller is configured to receive measured values of the volume of the second gaseous component and the measured concentration; said controller unit further comprises a processing unit provided with an algorithm for: - calculating the productivity of the apparatus, the indicated productivity being the maximum volume of the second gaseous component per unit of time, which can be allotted at current operating parameters and a given concentration value of the second gaseous component; - comparing the measured volume of the second gaseous component with the estimated capacity of the apparatus, - comparing the established concentration of said second gaseous component with a predetermined value; and said controller unit is programmed to maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined time interval Δs if the measured concentration is equal to or exceeds a predetermined value and if the said measured volume of the second gaseous component is less than the calculated capacity, and for the implementation of the regeneration cycle in the apparatus after the specified previously given time interval Δs. 17. The gas generator according to clause 16, in which the controller unit is additionally programmed to maintain the flow rate of the incoming gas for a predetermined nominal time interval of the cycle ∆s _o and to interrupt the flow of incoming gas after the specified predefined nominal time interval of the cycle ∆s _o in in case the indicated measured concentration is less than a predetermined value. 18. The gas generator according to 17, in which the controller unit is additionally programmed to carry out a regeneration cycle in said apparatus. 19. The gas generator according to clause 16, further comprising at least two apparatuses, each of which apparatus has an inlet and outlet for passing a gas stream and an adsorbent material capable of selectively adsorbing the first gaseous component from the gaseous mixture, as a result of which passes through said outlet a gas stream containing mainly a second gaseous component. 20. The gas generator according to claim 19, which is additionally programmable for the selective passage of the specified stream of incoming gas through the inlet of any of the at least two devices. 21. The gas generator according to clause 16, which further comprises a tap, which allows each of these at least two devices to release gas into the external environment. 22. The gas generator according to claim 19, in which the controller unit is further programmed to start a regeneration cycle in one of the at least two adsorption apparatuses and for selectively directing the flow of incoming gas through the other of the at least two other apparatuses in which regeneration. 23. The gas generator according to clause 16, in which the controller unit is additionally programmed to measure the time interval ∆t _l , during which one of the at least two devices is in the adsorption stage, and to compare the measured time interval with the minimum specified time interval Δt ₂ , and - if Δt _l > Δt ₂ and the measured concentration is equal to or exceeds a predetermined value and the said measured outlet flow rate is less than the calculated capacity, then the controller unit maintains the inlet gas flow rate for the specified predetermined time interval Δs; or - if Δt _l <= Δt ₂ and the measured concentration is equal to or exceeds a predetermined value and the aforementioned measured outlet flow rate is less than the calculated capacity, then the controller unit maintains the inlet gas flow rate for the specified predetermined nominal cycle time interval Δs ₀ . 24. The gas generator according to claim 19, in which each of the at least two devices contains an absorbent material containing carbon molecular sieves. 25. A controller unit containing means for measuring the volume of the second gaseous component at the outlet of the apparatus in which the regeneration is performed, means for determining the concentration of the second gaseous component at the outlet of the apparatus in which the regeneration is carried out, a processing unit for comparing measurement data with predetermined values and adjusting the time the interval during which the gas flow is directed through the inlet of the apparatus, while the specified controller is configured to be used in generator according to any one of paragraphs.15-23.

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