Abstract: In a pressure-swing adsorption-type gas separation unit, a distinct intermediate gas passageway is formed between a first water retaining bed (A) and a second separating adsorbent bed (B), a controlled heat flow being supplied to prevent the formation of a very cold area between both beds. The unit is particularly useful in the production of oxygen from air.

Abstract: A rotary device including a plurality of vertical prismatic sectors mounted on a first annular plate comprising two arrays of gas passages which communicate with the outer and inner collectors of respective sectors, and interacting with a second plane annular plate on a housing defining a set of inner chambers. The second plate comprises two concentric arrays of apertures which communicate with corresponding chambers in the set of chambers, and are spread out along the path of the two gas passage arrays of the first plate. The device is particularly useful for producing oxygen.

Abstract: A process for the separation by adsorption of at least a component of a gaseous mixture whereby the gas mixture is circulated through an adsorbent mass. A plurality of adsorbent mass compartments are provided and are arranged sectorially about and fixed to a support shaft rotating about an axis, and collection chambers are provided radially internally and externally of each adsorbent compartment. Gas circulation is provided radially through each adsorbent compartment as it rotates about a stationary gas distribution unit.