Modelling of a Gas Separation Column

The design and operation of adsorption columns for gas separation is a very complex task in the industry. General simulation tools are costly and time consuming to use. Simple design procedures use high safety margins and lead to oversizing of the plants and increased energy consumption during operation. Therefore, in the research project MoGaTEx, with partners 3P Instruments, LTT (RWTH) and TLK Energy, an integrated tool chain will be developed to enable rigorous design and optimization of adsorption columns even without extensive simulation know-how of the plant designer.

The aim of the work is the creation of a dynamic plant model of an adsorption column and the subsequent implementation as an online simulation tool. First, the development of a simplified operating concept of an adsorption plant is necessary. The modeling of the plant is based on already existing component models in Modelica. For the subsequent implementation as an online simulation tool, it must be ensured that the input variables produce physically meaningful results. A high simulation speed and numerical stability also have to be considered.

Tasks

• Development of a simplified operating concept of an adsorption plant (e.g. air separation)
• Modeling of the system based on an existing component library in Modelica
• Implementation of the model in online simulation tool
• Interpretation and presentation of the results

Framework

• Master thesis, duration: 6 months
• Strong interest in simulation and thermodynamics required
• Insight into industrial practice