Comparison of local equilibrium model and mass transfer model for prediction of PSA performance

Abstract

A PSA process for bulk gas separation was analyzed by a local equilibrium model and mass transfer model. The effects of feed now rate and purge-to-feed ratio on the product purity and recovery were investigated in the mass transfer model. The maximum recovery was found at a fixed purity. The recovery calculated from the local equilibrium model was compared to the simulation results from the mass transfer model. The recovery change with the feed composition and operating pressure was more distinct in the local equilibrium model.