ECONOMY or IDLE mode is a feature in modern Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) systems designed to conserve energy.
In this mode, the PSA system temporarily shuts down or goes into sleep mode when the storage tank reaches its maximum pressure or when the gas demand is lower than the PSA system’s capacity. This mode helps reduce unnecessary energy consumption thereby ensuring maximum efficiency.
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How does ECONOMY or IDLE mode work?
For easier understanding, let’s look at an example involving a PSA Nitrogen Generator:
Suppose a PSA Nitrogen Plant with a capacity of 100 Nm³/hr and a purity of 99.90% is installed at a manufacturing facility, and the client’s machinery requires Nitrogen at a pressure of 4 bar. The PSA system would operate at a higher pressure of 6.5 to 7 bar for better adsorption.
If the client’s machinery requires the full capacity of 100 Nm³/hr, the PSA system runs continuously. However, if the demand drops to 75 Nm³/hr, the nitrogen pressure in the storage tank will rise to 6.8 bar.
At this point, the system will shut down and enter ECONOMY or IDLE mode. It will only restart when the pressure in the storage tank decreases to around 5 bar, as the client’s machinery continues to consume nitrogen.
This on-off cycle reduces energy consumption compared to older PSA systems that would continue running regardless of actual demand. When the PSA system is in ECONOMY or IDLE mode, it does not require air, leading to the compressor unloading and eventually switching off.
Energy Saving through ECONOMY or IDLE Mode
The ECONOMY or IDLE mode is particularly useful when the gas demand fluctuates throughout the day. By adjusting its operation to meet varying requirements, the PSA system can save on significant amounts of energy consumed. The energy savings also depend on the size of the storage tank—larger tanks allow for more extended periods of ECONOMY or IDLE mode, resulting in greater efficiency.
This feature makes PSA systems ideal for operations with varying gas demands, providing cost savings, improved energy management and greater Return on Investment.
The energy savings achieved through ECONOMY or IDLE mode can be significant and are also influenced by the size of the storage tank. A larger tank allows for longer intervals between production cycles, reducing the overall runtime of the PSA system.
Example of Energy Savings
The following example illustrates Energy Savings (as percentage) when the Plant Capacity remains constant, but Nitrogen Demand fluctuates:
Considering:
Storage Tank (S.T.) Volume – 5000 L or 5 m³
Set Point 1 (Off) – 6.8 barg
Set Point 2 (On) – 5 barg
Conclusion
In conclusion, ECONOMY or IDLE mode helps in automatically managing the on-off cycles of the generator with minimal or no human interference based on the pressure or the gas demand thereby increasing the efficiency and reducing operational costs.We can easily conclude ,any industry should buy PSA Systems with ECoor IDLE mode for Energy saving
We hope this blog will help you in understanding ECONOMY or IDLE mode in regards to PSA Oxygen or Nitrogen Generators..Do remember, if you ever face any kind of query while trying to understand the product and their specifications, please feel free to get in touch with us through either our toll-free number 1800 3010 3394 or email us at info@absstem.com.
Reference:
Nitrogen Gas Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report 2024-30. (2023). Nitrogen Gas Market Size, Competitors & Forecast to 2030 (researchandmarkets.com)
