Inventors:
Laurance S. Reid - Norman OK
International Classification:
B01D 5314
Abstract:
The present invention makes use of spent or loaded process liquid at relatively high pressure to power a pump for recirculation of regenerated process liquid for gas contact in a relatively high pressure gas-liquid contact apparatus. In this manner, the power fluid used for recirculation supplies about 65% of the pumping energy requirements and the remaining 35% of the needed pumping energy is supplied by an externally powered pump, such as an electric motor-driven or engine powered pump. In accordance with the present invention, the power end of the fluid-power pump is flooded with liquid at all times so that no free gas is used. The extra volume of liquid used for pumping is regenerated and pumped back to the contactor by an externally powered pump, for example, a plunger-type, electrically-driven or engine-driven pump. The fluid-powered pump and plunger pump can be controlled to pump at a rate proportional to gas flow rate into or out of the contact apparatus or controlled to provide a predetermined amount of a particular gas component, i. e. , water vapor content, in the gas leaving the gas-liquid contacting apparatus.