Development of a distillation column for a dual-mode LOX-LIN plant at BARC Chakravarty Abhilash1,*, Chakravarty Anindya1,2, Goyal Mukesh1, Sugadan V.1 1Cryo-Technology Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai - 85, India 2Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai - 94, India *E-mail ID: abhilashc@barc.gov.in
Online published on 4 December, 2023. A dual-mode air separation plant producing either liquid oxygen (LOX) or liquid nitrogen (LIN) using a common single distillation (rectification) column for both the LOX and LIN modes, is conceptualized by BARC. The present work describes the sizing & optimization of a packed bed distillation column for LOX & LIN modes of operation. The basic calculation of the number of theoretical stages is a precursor to a more detailed analysis of a packed bed column using the HETP & HTU-NTU methods employing correlations for mass transfer coefficients. The results from the cryogenic process calculations act as inputs for the design of the column. A single, optimized column catering to all possible modes of operation provides flexibility and compactness, increases plant availability and at the same time reduces capital cost. Top Keywords Dual-mode air separation plant, Rectification, Packed bed, HETP, HTU, NTU. Top |