The Differences Between PSA N2 Generators vs. Membrane N2 Generator Technology

If your business relies on nitrogen for its industrial processes, you may need an onsite nitrogen generator to produce the quantities of nitrogen you need on an ongoing basis. It takes only a little bit of searching online to discover that there are multiple types of nitrogen generators, including pressure swing adsorption (PSA) nitrogen generators and membrane nitrogen generators.

These two types of generators function very differently. Each has specific benefits that make them important for different industries and types of businesses. If you need help determining which type of nitrogen generator is right for you, it helps to get assistance from the experts here at On Site Gas. At On Site Gas, we can help you decide which type of nitrogen generator is best for your business.

Here, we’ll discuss the differences between PSA and membrane nitrogen generators, covering everything you need to know.

What Is a PSA N2 Generator?

PSA nitrogen generators are the preferred type of generator for businesses that need high-purity nitrogen gas. High-purity gas is gas with a purity level of approximately 99.9995%. This purity level is often required in electronics manufacturing, chemical and petroleum industries, and metallurgy.

What Is a Membrane N2 Generator?

A membrane nitrogen generator uses a membrane to separate nitrogen from other elements in the air. Membrane nitrogen generators produce nitrogen at a purity level between 95 and 99.9%. This purity level makes membrane nitrogen generators a perfect choice for manufacturers in the food and beverage industry as well as the automotive and aerospace industries.

What Are The Differences Between PSA and Membrane Nitrogen Generator Technology?

PSA and membrane nitrogen generators each produce nitrogen, but they work very differently. Here’s how:

How Does a Nitrogen PSA Generator Work?

PSA generators pull air into a tank that contains a carbon molecular sieve (also called a CMS). The generator then increases pressure in the tank, and the CMS absorbs oxygen and other non-nitrogen particles. Once this is done, a high-purity stream of nitrogen is produced.

PSA generators usually have two tanks that work in tandem, so while one tank is filling and producing nitrogen, the other tank can clean out the CMS material. Then, the tanks switch roles. This repeats over and over again as the PSA nitrogen generator works.

Benefits of a PSA Generator

• Low maintenance. PSA generators are generally low-maintenance. These generators require periodic filter changes but can otherwise last for many years without any needed repairs or other types of maintenance. With this level of care, PSA generators can last for two decades or more.
• Consistent production of nitrogen. Even as they age, PSA generators continue to produce nitrogen at the same purity level. This makes PSA generators a good investment for businesses that need high levels of nitrogen.

How Does a Nitrogen Membrane Generator Work?

Membrane nitrogen generators work by pushing air through a cylindrical tube that contains a nitrogen generator membrane fibers. As the gas enters the membrane, the unwanted elements in the air (oxygen, for example) are directed to an exhaust vent, while the nitrogen gas exits at the outlet portion of the tube.

This produces a continuous flow of nitrogen gas. There are no moving parts for this type of generator, and that can be very helpful for processes that are sensitive to vibrations.

Benefits of a Membrane Generator

• Simplicity of design. Membrane generators have no moving parts, which means that they’re especially easy to maintain. This also ensures a continuous supply of nitrogen.
• Easy to store. Membrane generators are compact, so they’re easy to store in small spaces and can be configured for mobility as well.
• Long-lasting and durable. Because they have few or no moving parts, membrane generators are easy to maintain and last for a long time.

Still Not Sure Which Generator To Buy? Call On Site Gas

The professionals at On Site Gas are available to help you decide which type of nitrogen generator is right for you. In addition, we design custom generators for our clients. Call for a consultation, and we can design the best nitrogen generator for your needs.