The air pre-cooling unit system is an important component of the liquid air separation plant. It is located between the air compressor and the molecular sieve adsorption system to reduce the temperature of the air entering the molecular sieve adsorption system. As well as the content of H2O(g) and CO2. It also allows for the efficient utilization of the cooling capacity of the air separation system.
Principle of Pre-cooling Unit
The air pre-cooling unit is located between the air compressor system and the molecular sieve adsorption system. Mainly used to reduce the temperature of the air in the air compressor and timely clean the sulfides in the air to purify the air. So that the air enters the molecular sieve adsorption system.
In the lower section of the packed air cooling tower (referred to as the air cooling tower), the hot air from the air compressor is cooled by spraying with normal temperature water. And the dust in the air and substances such as N02, S02, C12, and HF that can be dissolved in water and are toxic to molecular sieves are washed away. In the upper section of the air cooling tower, hot air cooled by dirty nitrogen is sprayed with cold water. To reduce the temperature of the air to 10~20℃.
Therefore, the air pre-cooling system is crucial for the operation of the entire air separation equipment. And the process design of the pre-cooling system must be done well to ensure the economy and scientific nature of the air separation equipment.
- Compressor: The compressor is one of the core components of the pre-cooling unit. Responsible for compressing low-temperature, low-pressure gas from the evaporator outlet into high-temperature, high-pressure gas. This helps to increase the pressure in the refrigeration cycle, allowing heat to be more effectively removed from the air.
- Condenser: The condenser is a component behind the compressor. Which used to cool and condense the high-temperature, high-pressure compressed gas, transforming it into liquid form. This process releases heat, usually dissipated through cooling water or air.
- Evaporator: The evaporator is one of the main components of the pre-cooling unit. Which used to cool compressed air or gaseous mixtures to near their dew point temperature. By utilizing the evaporation process of the refrigerant inside the evaporator, heat is absorbed and the temperature is lowered.
Selection of Pre-cooling Unit
When selecting the appropriate pre-cooling unit, various factors should be considered. But the most important is to choose the corresponding pre-cooling unit according to the supporting cryogenic air separation plant.
Determining the refrigeration requirements that the pre-cooling unit needs to meet. And considering the overall installation environment, including surrounding temperature, humidity, and altitude, are also necessary. From the customer’s perspective, energy and efficiency should also be evaluated. More efficient pre-cooling units can reduce energy consumption while achieving the same refrigeration effect, thereby reducing operating costs.
Finally, the reliability and after-sales guarantee of the pre-cooling unit should also be considered. Choose a reliable brand to ensure stable operation of the equipment.
In conclusion, every configuration in the liquid air separation plant is crucial. Whether it is the self-cleaning air filter, air compressor, pre-cooling system, cold box, or backup system. Any problem in any link will affect the end use of the gas by the customer! So the selection of each link needs to consider quality and technology comprehensively!
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