How Cryogenics Became Mainstream
Over the years, more industries have been employing cryogenic technologies for a wide variety of purposes. From the production of electronic devices to performing medical treatments, cryogenics have increased considerably in the world of industry since they were introduced over a century ago.
That said, different projects require varying applications of cryogenic gas, from different types of gas to varying pressures. To ensure that cryogenics can be applied efficiently across multiple projects, a phase separator is necessary.
This article will look at the importance of cryogenic technology and how a phase separator from Demaco Cryogenics can help.
What Is Cryogenics?
Cryogenic technology involves the use of materials such as liquids and gases at extremely cold temperatures. The temperatures that cryogenics operate at are often between -150C (-238F) and -273C (-460F), which is considered absolute zero. At these temperatures, liquids turn solid and many gases such as hydrogen and nitrogen liquify.
While cryogenic technology has been around since the late 19th century, it was in the 1960s that the industrial application of cryogenics became well-known, particularly in the medicine and aerospace sectors. Today, cryogenic technologies are used in a variety of sectors including food production, manufacturing and scientific research.
In each case, technologies must be developed to allow for the safe and effective application of these cryogenic materials.
Industries That Use Cryogenics
Here are a few of the modern industries that rely on cryogenic technology.
Food Production
Cryogenic gases are used in refrigerating and storing consumable products such as food and drink. They extend the life of perishable foods such as meats, while also speeding up the production process.
Manufacturing
From cars to planes, cryogenics allows different components to be assembled more easily. Known as cold shrink technology, complex parts such as engine components can be put in place with little force, allowing them to expand and anchor in place.
Medicine
Since the 1960s, liquid nitrogen has been found to be effective in the removal of unhealthy tissue as well as the cryopreservation of blood, organs and other biological materials. As such it is used extensively in many medical procedures and pharmaceutical research.
Electronics
To ensure all electronic devices are able to withstand extreme temperatures, cryogenic technology is often used in the testing process. As such, liquid nitrogen is applied to see if a piece of electronic equipment is suitable for use in extremely cold conditions.
Scientific Research
Because of their unique properties, cryogenic gases such as helium can be used to study how physics works in extreme temperatures. They are often used in research to simulate the coldness of space, as well as for cooling equipment such as particle accelerators.
Energy and Transport
Cryogenics have been used for various fuel sources since the 1960s, such as liquid gas fuel used in launching spacecraft. Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) is a modern fuel used in shipping and road transport, and vehicles are specially designed to store and use LNG fuel.
The Importance of Phase Separators
While cryogenic technology is extremely valuable in a variety of industries, it also comes with its own risks. Not only does infrastructure need to be in place to avoid the risk of injury or the effects of toxic materials, but it also needs to ensure no gases are wasted in the process of application.
Transfer lines for safely moving gases, degassing vents and subcoolers to avoid blockages and buildups, and sensors that can detect and control pressure and liquid levels are some commonly used cryogenic infrastructure in industries today.
To maintain the quality of cryogenic materials used, a phase separator is necessary. A phase separator allows you to adjust the pressure of your cryogenic gas, ensuring whatever project you are working on receives a sufficient, high-quality amount of cryogenic material.
In addition, they come with a variety of connection and configuration options, meaning they can be easily applied to any project available.
How Phase Separators Work
As mentioned, the purpose of a cryogenic phase separator is to ensure a stable, high-quality application of cryogenic material at a predefined pressure.
It achieves this through the use of a buffer which temporarily stores the liquid gas before use. A level sensor continuously monitors the level of cryogenic gas in the buffer. Depending on what level the pressure is set at, the level controller will allow gas to enter the buffer at the minimum level, and then close when the maximum level is reached.
While contained within the buffer, any excess gas bubbles rise to the surface and release into the storage compartment. While this is occurring, the liquid gas is expelled through the output point until the minimum level is reached. At this point, the output flow is closed off until the maximum level is reached again. This process continues while the phase separator is in operation.
In addition, the pressure level for application can be adjusted at the output exhaust valve by a pressure regulator. This ensures that the liquid gas is applied evenly at a predefined pressure without the risk of buildups or gas bubbles.
