A deaerated liquor skid is a self-contained, pre-assembled unit designed to remove dissolved oxygen (O2) from a liquid stream. This process is particularly important in various industries, including:
- Food and Beverage: Deaeration prevents oxidation and spoilage of products like juices, beer, and wine.
- Pharmaceutical: Eliminates oxygen that can degrade sensitive drugs and biological products.
- Chemical Processing: Prevents unwanted reactions or corrosion caused by dissolved oxygen.
Key Components:
- Deaeration Vessel: A pressurised vessel equipped with internal components for efficient oxygen removal.
- Inlet and Outlet Piping: Connect the skid to the upstream and downstream process lines.
- Deoxygenation Technique (one or more of the following):
- Vacuum Deaeration: Liquor is subjected to a low-pressure environment, causing dissolved oxygen to desorb (come out of solution) into the vapour phase.
- Membrane Deaeration: The Liquor flows across a selectively permeable membrane that allows oxygen to pass through while retaining the liquid.
- Nitrogen Sparging: Inert nitrogen gas is injected into the liquor, creating a stripping effect that displaces dissolved oxygen.
- Level Control System: Maintains a desired liquid level within the deaerator vessel.
- Pressure Control System: Maintains the necessary pressure within the vessel for optimal deoxygenation.
- Temperature Control System (Optional): In some applications, temperature control might be necessary to optimise deoxygenation efficiency.
- Instrumentation and Control System: Sensors monitor pressure, temperature, and oxygen levels in the liquor. A control system regulates operating parameters like pump speed and valve positions based on sensor readings.
Operation of a Deaerated Liquor Skid:
- Liquor Feed: The liquor to be deaerated enters the skid via the inlet piping and is pumped into the deaerator vessel.
- Deoxygenation: Depending on the chosen technique, the oxygen removal process takes place. This could involve:
- Vacuum Deaeration: The vessel pressure is reduced, and dissolved oxygen comes out of solution. A vacuum pump might be used to maintain the desired low pressure.
- Membrane Deaeration: The liquor flows through a membrane, allowing oxygen to permeate through while the deaerated liquor exits the membrane on the other side.
- Nitrogen Sparging: Nitrogen gas is injected into the bottom of the vessel, stripping away dissolved oxygen from the liquor. The oxygen-rich gas is then vented.
- Deaerated Liquor Outlet: The deaerated liquor exits the vessel through the outlet piping and is directed further downstream in the process.
Benefits of a Deaerated Liquor Skid:
- Pre-assembled and Compact: Easy to install and integrate into existing processing lines.
- Efficient Deaeration: Removes dissolved oxygen to desired levels.
- Modular Design: Components can be easily replaced or upgraded for different applications.
- Automated Operation: Minimises manual intervention and ensures consistent operation.
- Portable (Optional): Skid-mounted design allows for easier transportation and temporary use on different production lines.
Selection Factors for a Deaerated Liquor Skid:
- Liquid Flow Rate: The skid capacity must match the required liquor processing volume.
- Desired Oxygen Reduction Level: The deaerator needs to achieve the necessary level of oxygen removal for the specific application.
- Liquor Properties: Viscosity, temperature sensitivity, and compatibility with the deoxygenation method need to be considered.
- Available Space: The footprint of the skid needs to fit comfortably within the designated installation area.
- Budget: Deaerated liquor skids can vary in cost depending on size, complexity, and desired features.
By understanding the technical components, functionalities, and selection factors of deaerated liquor skids, you can make informed decisions when choosing this equipment for oxygen removal in various process industries.