Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A pressure swing adsorption apparatus including a compressor for pumping a flow of a gaseous mixture through an adsorption medium utilizes a capacity control system by which the operating capacity of the compressor can be preselected. The capacity control system is disposed upstream, i.e. on the suction side of, the compressor for limiting, when desired, the feed stream drawn into the compressor. A reduction in the operating capacity of the apparatus by way of the control system results in a corresponding reduction in the power consumption and noise levels of the compressor. The system is particularly advantageous when incorporated in an oxygen-generating unit intended for use by a patient requiring oxygen therapy in his home in that the capacity of a high capacity unit can be reduced, when appropriate, by a distributor or technician prior to use of the unit by the patient so that the patient receives the oxygen-rich product stream that he has been prescribed to receive and to reduce operating costs of the unit. The method of the invention includes the steps performed by the control system.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim