Difference between TSA and PSA in hydrogen purification

chemical reaction

September 19, 2025

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As an important industrial gas, hydrogen is widely used in chemical, energy, electronic manufacturing and other industries. In the process of hydrogen production, purification technology is the key link to ensure the purity and stability of the gas. In hydrogen purification equipment, TSA and PSA are two common dehydrogenation units, and there are significant differences in dehydrogenation principle, equipment structure, application range and so on. This article will analyze TSA and PSPS in detail from the aspects of structure, principle, advantages and disadvantages, etc., to help readers better understand their differences and make scientific choices.

1. the basic concepts and working principles of TSA and PSA

definition and working principle of 1.1 TSA

TSA(Three-amine stripper, triethanolamine dehydrogenator) is a commonly used dehydrogenation device, the core of which is the use of triethanolamine as a dehydrogenation agent. The structure of a TSA generally includes two sections, a dehydrogenation reactor and an absorption zone. In the dehydrogenation reactor, hydrogen reacts with triethanolamine in the presence of a catalyst to produce nitrogen and by-products. The absorption zone absorbs the by-products through water vapor to ensure the stability of the system operation.

The dehydrogenation principle of TSA is simple and clear, and the equipment structure is relatively fixed, which is suitable for small and medium-scale hydrogen purification projects. Its advantages are simple operation, low maintenance cost, suitable for initial investment and daily management.

Definition and working principle of 1.2 PSA

PSA(Phosphine Stripping Absorber, phosphorus amine dehydrogenator) is an advanced dehydrogenation technology, and its dehydrogenation agent usually uses three phosphorus amine (such as triethyl phosphorus amine). Compared with TSA, the structure of PSA is more complex, mainly including dehydrogenation reactor, absorption zone and air cooling cycle system. In the dehydrogenation reactor, the ternary phosphorus amine reacts with hydrogen to produce nitrogen and by-products. The absorption zone also uses water vapor to absorb by-products, while the air-cooled circulation system provides hydrogen through cooling and circulation to ensure the efficient operation of the system.

PSA has high dehydrogenation efficiency and can meet the demand of modern industry for high purity hydrogen. The disadvantage is that the equipment is larger and the maintenance and management costs are higher.

Comparison of Advantages and Disadvantages of 2. TSA and PSA

2.1 from the efficiency point of view

the dehydrogenation efficiency of TSA is generally between 70% and 80%, which is suitable for the purification of medium purity hydrogen. The dehydrogenation efficiency of PSA is usually higher, reaching 85%-95%, which is suitable for scenarios with higher purity requirements. Therefore, PSA has more advantages in large and medium-sized hydrogen production projects.

2.2 from the maintenance cost point of view

TSA has a low initial input cost and is suitable for small and medium-sized projects. Due to its simple structure and low maintenance cost, operator training can be mastered. PSA's equipment is large, with high maintenance costs and management complexity. The long maintenance cycle of PSA can significantly reduce the long-term operating cost.

2.3 from the scale of equipment

TSA's equipment is small in size, adaptable, and suitable for flexible deployment scenarios. PSA's equipment is large and is usually used for fixed, large-scale hydrogen production projects. The high efficiency and stability of PSA make it the preferred choice in modern hydrogen production systems.

2.4 from the scope of application

TSA is mainly used in small and medium-sized hydrogen production projects, such as chemical plants and energy companies. PSA is widely used in large and medium-sized energy projects, such as nuclear power plants, industrial gas purification and so on. Choosing the right equipment according to the scale and needs of the project is the key.

Recommendations for the selection of 3. TSA and PSA

scenarios 3.1 Choosing TSA

small and medium-sized projects: If the project scale is small, the initial investment is low, and the maintenance cost is controllable, TSA is an economical and simple choice.
High flexibility requirements TSA has a high structural flexibility, suitable for flexible layout and expansion, and suitable for the hydrogen purification needs of small and medium-sized enterprises.
Low maintenance requirements for equipment: If the enterprise wants to reduce the maintenance cost, THS is a good choice.

Scenarios 3.2 choose PSA

large projects: For large and medium-sized hydrogen production projects, PSA's high efficiency and stability can meet the demand for high-purity hydrogen.
High purity hydrogen demand: If the project requires extremely high hydrogen purity, PSA is the ideal choice.
Low long-term operating costs: PSA's high efficiency and stability can significantly reduce long-term operating costs, suitable for long-term stable production needs.

4. summary and suggestions

TSA and PSA are two important equipments in hydrogen purification. They have their own advantages and disadvantages and are suitable for different application scenarios. In the selection, need to consider the project size, purity requirements, maintenance costs, equipment size and other factors. For small and medium-sized projects, TSA is an economical and simple choice, while for large and medium-sized projects or high-purity hydrogen demand scenarios, PSA is more advantageous.

Therefore, it is recommended to make a comprehensive evaluation and scientific decision based on project needs and budget when selecting hydrogen purification equipment. It is recommended to choose the equipment suitable for the long-term development of the enterprise to achieve efficient, stable and economical hydrogen production.