Method for starting up an argon separation column of an apparatus for air separation by cryogenic distillation and unit for implementing the method
US12313336B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 24, 2021 |
| Grant date | May 27, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 5, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF25J2290/60
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A unit for producing argon by cryogenic distillation, suitable for connection to a double air separation column consisting of first and second columns interconnected thermally, comprises an argon separation column surmounted with a top condenser and a denitrogenation column, means for withdrawing an argon-rich and nitrogen-depleted product (LAR) at the bottom of the denitrogenation column, means for connecting the top of the argon separation column to the denitrogenation column, means for sending a top gas from the argon separation column to the atmosphere, means for withdrawing a nitrogen-rich fluid from the top of the denitrogenation column, an analyser for measuring the nitrogen content at the top of the argon separation column, and means for opening and closing the means for connecting the top of the argon separation column to the denitrogenation column depending on the nitrogen content detected by the analyser.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.