Gas Generation / PSA Gas Compressors and Gas Compressor Systems
Last Updated: April 1, 2025
Description
Gas Generation / PSA Gas Compressors and Gas Compressor Systems are specialized systems used in the separation, generation, or purification of gases such as oxygen and nitrogen. These systems operate by processing compressed air or other feed gases to produce a pure stream of the desired gas.
Working Principle
Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) technology is the core working principle behind these systems. A PSA generator utilizes a carbon molecular sieve (CMS) to adsorb unwanted molecules like oxygen, argon, and carbon from the air, leaving behind a pure stream of nitrogen. The system typically consists of two vessels containing CMSs, which are made from materials like anthracite coal. The CMSs have pores that allow nitrogen molecules to pass through while binding other smaller molecules. This process is crucial for producing high-purity gases efficiently and is widely used due to its ability to generate gases on-site, reducing the need for transportation and storage of gas cylinders.
Applications
Gas Generation / PSA Gas Compressors and Gas Compressor Systems are used in various industrial applications. For instance, they are employed in gas separation units for the generation of nitrogen or oxygen, which are essential in processes like protective blanketing and hydrogenation in chemical processing. They are also used in fuel gas compression for gas turbine applications, where they increase the pressure of fuel gases like waste or landfill gas for efficient combustion.
Advantages over other Gas Compressors and Gas Compressor Systems
One significant advantage of PSA systems is their ability to provide on-site gas generation, which eliminates the logistical challenges and costs associated with transporting and storing gas cylinders. Additionally, PSA systems can achieve high purity levels of gases, which is crucial for applications requiring stringent quality standards. The modular nature of these systems allows for scalability and flexibility in meeting varying demand levels.
Limitations
Despite their advantages, PSA systems have limitations. They require a continuous supply of compressed air, which can be energy-intensive and costly. The initial setup of a PSA system can be complex and requires careful consideration of the specific gas purity and flow rate requirements. Additionally, the carbon molecular sieves used in PSA systems have a finite lifespan and need periodic replacement, which adds to maintenance costs.
Considerations
When considering the implementation of a Gas Generation / PSA Gas Compressor System, several factors should be evaluated. Initial costs can be significant due to the need for specialized equipment and infrastructure. Operating expenses are influenced by energy consumption, as the system requires a constant supply of compressed air. Durability and accuracy are generally high, but regular maintenance is necessary to ensure optimal performance. Replacement and maintenance costs should be factored into the overall cost of ownership, as components like the carbon molecular sieves will need periodic replacement to maintain efficiency and gas purity levels.
from Howden
Burton Corblin Periflow ® Range of Peripheral Compressors. The Periflow ® compressor has its own performance characteristics situated between those of volumetric displacement blowers and centrifugal compressors. Periflow ® compressors provide a cost-effective option when moderate... [See More]
- Applications: Gas Boosting; Gas Generation / PSA; Oil Refining / Chemical Processing; Oil / Vapor Recovery ; Process Gas Feeding / Injection
- Discharge / Operating Pressure: 2901
- Compressor Technology: Centrifugal
- Horse Power: 1340
from Advanced Gas Technologies
Advanced Gas Technologies Inc. has been marketing, installing and maintaining industrial gas generating systems, standard industrial compressor systems and engineered compressor systems throughout North America since 1994. CNG Compressor Packages. Industrial duty 2, 3, 4, and 5 stage reciprocating... [See More]
- Applications: Gas Generation / PSA
- Discharge / Operating Pressure: 5000
- Compressor Technology: Reciprocating Piston
- Horse Power: 5 to 500
from GENERON
GENERON offers 2hp to 10,000hp (1.5kw - 7,457kw). Industry proven engineered OIL-LUBE Recip Compression Packages, built to any technical specification using engine or electric motor drives. Our packages move large volumes of air or gas, from ambient or elevated suction pressures, to discharge... [See More]
- Applications: Gas Boosting; Gas Transmission / Delivery; Fuel Gas / Power Generation; Gas Generation / PSA; Oil / Vapor Recovery ; Instrument Air, Rig Tensioning, Wellhead Compression
- Discharge / Operating Pressure: 10000
- Compressor Technology: Reciprocating Piston
- Mass Flow Capacity: 24290
from Ingersoll Rand Industrial Technologies / Air Motors
MSG TURBO-AIR 11000 is a more standardized compressor with a shorter delivery time. The MSG TURBO-AIR 11000 was designed from the ground up with input from actual end-users, assuring that this machine was built around customer needs for a more efficient and easily maintainable compressor. [See More]
- Applications: Gas Boosting; Fuel Gas / Power Generation; Gas Generation / PSA; Process Gas Feeding / Injection; Soot blowers & large plant air
- Discharge / Operating Pressure: 275
- Compressor Technology: Centrifugal
- Mass Flow Capacity: 8200 to 14750
from Celeroton AG
Celeroton presents the new CT-25-10000 turbo compressor with air bearings in order to meet the increased market demand for higher mass flow and pressure ratios. The CT-25-10000 consumes the lowest available space, offers a long lifetime, oil-free operation, lowest weight and an optimized cost on the... [See More]
- Applications: Gas Generation / PSA; Process Gas Feeding / Injection
- Discharge / Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 31.91
- Compressor Technology: Blower; Centrifugal
- Mass Flow Capacity: 0.0 to 159
from Howden
Roots multistage. The Howden Roots multistage centrifugal compressor is designed for air and gas applications under API 617 but still offering our customers low cost of ownership. • Low cost of ownership. • Efficient, reliable operation. • Capable of handling a variety of process... [See More]
- Applications: Gas Generation / PSA; Oil Refining / Chemical Processing
- Mass Flow Capacity: 125000
- Compressor Technology: Centrifugal
from Advanced Gas Technologies
Advanced Gas Technologies Inc. has been marketing, installing and maintaining industrial gas generating systems, standard industrial compressor systems and engineered compressor systems throughout North America since 1994. Diaphragm Compressors Features. From 3 HP to 125 HP. Pressures to 30,000... [See More]
- Applications: Gas Generation / PSA
- Discharge / Operating Pressure: 30000
- Compressor Technology: Diaphragm
- Horse Power: 3 to 125
from GENERON
GENERON offers 2hp to 5,000hp (0.38kw - 3730kw) Industry proven engineered rotary screw compression packages built to any technical specification either engine or electric drive, for moving large volumes at lower suction with discharge pressures up to 600 psig (41 barg). At GENERON our engineering,... [See More]
- Applications: Gas Generation / PSA; Oil / Vapor Recovery ; Landfill, Instrument Air, Biogas, Well Compression
- Discharge / Operating Pressure: 600
- Compressor Technology: Rotary Screw
- Mass Flow Capacity: 5000
from Ingersoll Rand Industrial Technologies / Air Motors
The MSG TURBO-AIR 20000 is a custom-engineered centrifugal compressor built for individual customer needs for a variety of applications. It is particularly well-suited for multi-stage, dual-process applications. [See More]
- Applications: Gas Boosting; Fuel Gas / Power Generation; Gas Generation / PSA; Process Gas Feeding / Injection; Soot blowers & large plant air
- Discharge / Operating Pressure: 1160
- Compressor Technology: Centrifugal
- Mass Flow Capacity: 18200 to 24750