What is an ASU and How Does it Work?

An Air Separation Unit (ASU), or otherwise known as an air separation plant, separates atmospheric air into its primary components — typically nitrogen, oxygen, and argon.

To put it simply, an ASU works like this:

Step 1: Filtration

Air is drawn in through an intake filter to remove any dust or debris.

Step 2: Pressurization

Air is moderately compressed and moved into a pre-cooling chamber at 40°F where H 2O and CO 2 are removed.

Step 3: Separation

Air is moved into air separators at -297°F where the oxygen turns into a liquid, then argon and nitrogen gases are separated. Argon turns into liquid at -302°F and nitrogen turns into liquid at -320°F.

Step 4: Storage

The gases are piped in their liquid state to storage tanks for later shipment to partners and customers.

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