Patent ID: 7502667
Filing Date: 2009-03-10
Classification: B01D,C21C,F25J,Y02P

Abstract:
1. A method which may be used for operating a production plant, said method comprising: a) treating at least one gas mixture with at least one air separation unit, wherein said air separation unit is supplied with electricity; b) producing at least one fluid with said air separation unit; c) operating said air separation unit during at least one first period, when the cost of electricity is greater than a first predefined value; d) operating said air separation unit during at least one second period, wherein: e) storing at least part of said fluid during at least part of said second period, wherein: f) delivering at least part of said fluid to a customer during at least part of said first period, wherein said fluid delivered is from said storage tank; g) producing at least one fluid with a first set of predefined characteristics, wherein: h) reducing the power consumption of said air separation unit to a reduced level, wherein: i) producing at least one fluid with a second set of predefined characteristics, wherein: iv) a second pressure less than said first pressure; and