Optimization of the Product Recovery Rate in an Air Separation Plant

Abstract

Process optimization is an area of opportunity for any organization given the recent rise in costs associated with the manufacture of products from local perspective. As part of the productivity initiatives, the decrease in the Argon recovery rate in an air separation plant was identified as opportunity, due to its direct implications on the business. The DMAIC methodology was implemented through its different phase’s application, identifying as root causes deficiencies in the mechanical integrity of the main air compressor. Successful improvements implementation was completed considering the integration of control measurements resulting in sustainable changes. Daily production showed increase per preliminary evaluation indicating a positive trend towards production target objective. Key Terms⎯ Argon, Continuous Improvement, DMAIC Methodology, Inlet Guide Vanes.