STUDY CONCERNING PROCESS RESTARTING AN AUXILLIARY COLUMN FOR ARGON/OXIGEN SEPARATION

Abstract

The paper presents the process for restarting an auxilliary column after an interruption in operation wherein descending liquid is stored during stoppage of the column. This auxilliary column is coupled with a principal air distillation apparatus in which is effected at least one oxigen/nitrogen separation. During the stoppage of the mean air separation column, the liquid contained in the auilliary column is stored, then this liquid is recycicled. During restarting an argon column, the liquid in the base of the column is mentained at a constant level. Collected liquid is used to reinventory the separation section of the argon column with liquid before restarting that column or upon restart of gas supply to the column.