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Q&A: How often do I have to change the Molecular Sieve (Zeolite) in PCI’s DOCS?
The sieve in PCI DOCS has proven to last over 10 years
The molecular sieve in conventional pressure swing adsorption (PSA) oxygen concentrators is subjected to repeated pressure cycles ranging from vacuum to 100 PSI. In PSA systems, these frequent and large pressure swings cause the sieve beads to rub against one another and break apart over time which lowers the adsorption property of the sieve in PSA vessels. Additionally, the high compression pressure of PSA systems can cause moisture contained in the process air to condensate and attach to the sieve beads, further degrading the adsorption performance.
In PCI’s Vacuum Swing Adsorption (VSA) system the process air is gradually supplied into the vessel to less than 15 PSI by our reversing blower technology. This low and gradual pressure increase prevents the sieve beads from compressing and abrading to the extent caused in PSA systems and eliminates the risk of contamination due to water condensation. Additionally, the sieve in PCI’s VSA system is secured in place with our proprietary vessel packing and spring plate technology. The combination of the low, gradual pressure cycles and our proprietary vessel packing procedure prevents degradation and breakdown of the sieve beads. The Zeolite in PCI’s DOCS does not have to be changed at any time.
PCI has fielded numerous DOCS units with over 80,000 hours of near continuous operation using the original sieve in the VSA vessel. By performing the simple maintenance task of ensuring the vessel lid remains tightly secured, the sieve in PCI DOCS has proven to last over 10 years (and counting) at numerous customer installations.
For more information, contact the following person:
Tom Saari: tsaari@pcigases.com
Posted January 26, 2022