Simulation of Pressure Swing Adsorption for Oxygen Concentrator Using LiX Zeolite

Abstract

The existence of oxygen is needed in various fields such as health, industry, aerospace, and energy. Pressure swing adsorption method using zeolite A and X is commonly used in the oxygen separation process. Zeolite LiX is widely used especially in oxygen purification systems from air for medical needs until the purity reach >90%. In the present work the simulation studies of oxygen separation from air using zeolite LiX were investigated by pressure swing adsorption method. This simulation uses 2 beds/4 steps Skarstrom cycle which generally consists of bed pressurization, adsorption, depressurization and desorption. Several variables were studied such as the effect of pressure, cycle time, and temperature to determine the level of product purity. The simulation shows that the increase in oxygen concentration is caused by an increase in operating pressure and total cycle time to obtain maximum results. Meanwhile, large pressures can reduce the efficiency of the adsorbent. The maximum oxygen concentration that can be obtained up to 99%. However, the temperature variation has no significant change. In general, pressure plays the most significant role in oxygen purification.