Nitrogen generators extract nitrogen from the air and expel the other gases into the environment. For businesses that use nitrogen for packaging, welding, and other processes, nitrogen generators are efficient and effective devices that produce nitrogen on-site. While nitrogen can be obtained in a variety of ways, and can be delivered in cylinders and other packaging, nitrogen generators are the best option for most businesses that require a regular supply of nitrogen for their industrial processes.

There are several key industries that benefit from nitrogen generators, including aerospace, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, electronics, oil and gas, and metal manufacturing. Although there are many nitrogen system applications, many of these industries rely on nitrogen because it is non-reactive and can flush out oxygen from the environment. This prevents oxidization and can prevent corrosion, rot, or product weakening over time.

How Nitrogen Generators Work

Nitrogen generators work by producing a steady stream of nitrogen from compressed air. There are two types of nitrogen generators: pressure swing adsorption (PSA) and membrane nitrogen generators. PSA generators work by isolating nitrogen and allowing other gases to be adsorbed. Membrane nitrogen generators push some gas molecules through a membrane, leaving nitrogen isolated from the rest.

There are many benefits of using nitrogen generators over other forms of nitrogen delivery:

• Cost-effective. While nitrogen generators cost more than cylinder delivery upfront, many businesses save money with nitrogen generators over time.
• Space-effective. Nitrogen generators are easy to store on-site and often take up less space than nitrogen cylinders.
• Nitrogen available on demand: Nitrogen cylinders deliver a constant, continuous stream of nitrogen on demand.
• Eco-friendly: Whereas nitrogen cylinder delivery relies upon fossil-fuel-dependent vehicles, nitrogen generators require very little energy to operate and are better for the environment.

While nitrogen cylinders are a good option for businesses that only need nitrogen occasionally, nitrogen generators are the product of choice for businesses that need nitrogen regularly to produce their products.

Applications of Nitrogen Generators in Different Industries

Nitrogen generator applications vary by industry. What is consistent about industrial nitrogen use is that industries prefer nitrogen because it is available in the air, it prevents oxidization, and it is non-reactive. Below are some of the nitrogen generator applications by industry.

Aerospace Industry

Nitrogen is used in the aerospace industry to prevent oxidation in manufacturing processes such as welding. Nitrogen can also be used to displace oxygen in fuel tanks. Fuel tanks that are filled with nitrogen instead of oxygen are less likely to combust even if a combustion source is introduced. The use of nitrogen in fuel tanks is an important safety measure that can prevent industry accidents.

Food & Beverage Industry

Nitrogen is used in the food and beverage industry to flush packaging and remove oxygen from the packaging environment. Oxygen is responsible for changing food quality over time. Food and beverage exposure to oxygen leads to color change, flavor change, and odors. Nitrogen flushing in packaging helps extend food shelf life by months. Foods in nitrogen-flushed packages can more easily be shipped around the world.

Nitrogen is also used in food storage for preservation. Flushing food packages with nitrogen allows food to be stored for a long time, leading to less food waste.

Pharmaceutical Industry

In the pharmaceutical industry, nitrogen is used to create an inert environment for the production of sensitive medications. Nitrogen is also used in pharmaceutical packaging and storage to maintain product integrity, similar to the way that nitrogen is used in food industry packaging. Nitrogen’s inertness allows medications to be stored for longer.

Electronics & Semiconductor Industry

Nitrogen is used in electronics and the semiconductor industry to create inert atmospheres for soldering and other processes. Soldering is the process of creating a permanent connection between two electronic components. Nitrogen helps shorten soldering times, reduce thermal stress, prevent oxidation of the soldering surface, and generally extend the length of time the solder is likely to last.

Oil & Gas Industry

In the oil and gas industry, nitrogen injection into an oil reservoir helps increase oil recovery. Nitrogen can also be used to purge pipelines and tanks for safety. Nitrogen is non-flammable and replacing air or oxygen with nitrogen can help prevent workplace accidents.

Metal Manufacturing & Fabrication

Exposure to oxygen in welding can lead to weak joints. The use of nitrogen as a shielding gas in welding and cutting can strengthen weld joints. Nitrogen is also used to create a protective environment in heat treatment and annealing applications, and the use of nitrogen in this industry can lead to a tougher and stronger surface.

Choosing the Right Nitrogen Generator for Your Industry

When you’re trying to choose a nitrogen generator for your industrial nitrogen use, it’s important to choose the correct type of generator. Flow rate, purity, and pressure requirements are all important considerations for a business seeking a nitrogen generator for industrial purposes. Different types of generators produce nitrogen at different flow and purity rates.

Custom systems can help satisfy the unique needs of businesses. On Site Gas Systems produces custom nitrogen generators for businesses of all types. Our specialists take into consideration the needs of the business to ensure that the systems we produce provide the correct amount and purity of nitrogen for your needs.

Need a Nitrogen Generator for Nitrogen in Manufacturing? Contact On Site Gas Systems

There are many reasons for the use of nitrogen in industry and manufacturing, from preventing degradation and oxidization of materials to creating a safer workplace environment. Businesses may choose to get a nitrogen generator for many reasons, but these reasons often include money savings and efficiency. Nitrogen generators can save businesses thousands of dollars over time, and produce a reliable source of nitrogen.

To get started creating your customized nitrogen generator, contact On Site Gas Systems. We provide custom nitrogen systems for industrial nitrogen use. We’re here to help you find the best system for your industry purposes.