Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to a method for enriching an inlet air stream utilizing a number of enrichment sub-units connected in series, where each enrichment sub-unit conducts both a dissolution and degasification cycle. Each enrichment sub-unit comprises a compressor, an aeration unit, a deaeration unit, and a pump for the recirculation of water between the aeration and deaeration units. The methodology provides a manner in which the relationship between the respective Henry's coefficients of the oxygen and nitrogen in water may be exploited to enrich the O₂ volume percent and diminish the N₂ volume percent over repeated dissolution and degasification cycles. By utilizing a number of enrichment sub-units connected in series, the water contained in each enrichment sub-unit acts to progressively increase the O₂ volume percent. Additional enrichment sub-units may be added and utilized until the O₂ volume percent equals or exceeds a target O₂ volume percent. In a particular embodiment, air having a general composition of about 78 vol. % N₂ and 21 vol. % O₂ is progressively enriched to provide a final mixture of about 92% vol. % O₂ and 8% vol. % N₂.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim