Abstract: Uniform dispersion of mixtures of gases of different densities in gas vessels is rapidly attained by introducing the gases into the vessels in the order of their increasing densities while the vessels are in the upright position. When the quantities of the denser gases are small relative to the quantity of the least dense gas the gases are preferably metered into the vessels by pressure measurements, with the final pressures of the more dense gases being determined by differential pressure gauge measurements.

Abstract: An ordered packing comprising elongated elements having lengthwise extending surfaces configured to be wet by a liquid phase to thereby form a film thereon. The elongated elements are packed together into a structure such that in each of a plurality of parallel planes, extending in two orthogonal directions, the elongated elements cross one another to form lattices having openings defined between the crossings of the elements. The elongated elements are interleaved within the structure such that elongated elements pass through the openings in the lattices and form repeating clusters of four of the elongated elements in a pyramid-like arrangement. Each of the clusters of the elongated elements and their lengthwise extending surfaces provide pathways for the film to descend through the structure. The structure has an open area for a vapor phase to ascend through the structure and contact the liquid phase.

Abstract: A stream of compressed nitrogen (or methane) at above its critical pressure is passed along conduit 10 through heat exchangers 16, 18, 20, 22 and 24, in sequence, to cool it to below its critical temperature. The resulting fluid is then subjected to expansion and resultant liquid is collected. Refrigeration for the heat exchangers is provided by nitrogen working fluid cycles 62, 72 and 82 employing expansion turbines 64, 74 and 84 respectively. The turbines have different inlet temperatures but substantially the same outlet temperature.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the liquefaction of a permanent gas comprising nitrogen. The temperature of the permanent gas stream at a pressure in the range of 75 to 90 atmospheres is reduced to below its initial temperature. Providing at least part of the necessary refrigeration, a single nitrogen working fluid cycle is performed in which the nitrogen working fluid is compressed to a pressure in the range of 75 to 90 atmospheres, cooled to a temperature in the range of 170 to 200 K., work expanded to a temperature in the range of 107 to 120 K., and warmed by heat exchange countercurrently to the permanent gas stream, thereby providing refrigeration for the stream.