01Define the numerator and denominator
An air consumption ratio compares feed-air volume with delivered product-gas volume. Both must use compatible reference conditions. It describes one aspect of separation performance; it does not include the electricity needed to compress, dry, cool or further pressurize those streams.
02Account for auxiliaries
Two packages with similar air ratios can have different station energy use because their compressors, regeneration methods or delivery pressures differ. Record which electrical consumers and gas losses are included before drawing an efficiency conclusion.
03Measure at one boundary
For an energy study, meter electricity over a representative interval and divide by accepted product gas delivered over that interval. Record the product quality, pressure and load profile. Keep the air ratio as a separate diagnostic figure rather than converting it into a universal electricity claim.
These public references explain general technology. They do not establish AIDEKE model performance, a supply commitment or a third-party endorsement. The article is an independent editorial explanation; the confirmed technical agreement governs a specific project.
Sources and usage notes