The Results of Research to Identify the Causes of Unstable Operation of the Cryogenic Air Separation Unit TKDS-100V

The article presents the main results of an experimental study of the operation of a nitrogen rectification column of a high-pressure air separation unit TKDS-100V developed by JSC "NPO "Geliymash" as an alternative to the installations of the previous generation AKDS-70M. The declared productivity of these units is much higher in comparison with the predecessor, the concentration of the products obtained meets the requirements and is ensured by the use of efficient heat and mass transfer devices of its own production. However, the experience of operating the TKDS-100V air separation unit has revealed a number of significant disadvantages. The unstable operation of the air separation unit of the TKDS-100V unit, caused by both constructive miscalculations and errors in the operational documentation, leads to operational disadvantages. The evaluation of the mass productivity of the TKDS-100V unit in the mode of liquid nitrogen production has been carried out. Based on a detailed analysis of empirical data, the reason for the oscillatory nature of the processes occurring in the column has been established, which significantly complicate the operator’s work, exclude the possibility of maintaining a rational mode and often lead to emergency situations associated with the parameters going beyond the limits of acceptable values. Deficiencies in the design of the rectification column leading to a pulsating supply of reflux from the pockets of the condenser to the upper rectification plate are identified and solutions are proposed