What Is Membrane Nitrogen Technology? A Beginner’s Guide

Nitrogen generation plays an important role in many industries, from electronics manufacturing to food packaging. For businesses that require a nitrogen generator for industrial purposes, a membrane nitrogen generator offers many advantages. This guide will serve as an introduction to membrane nitrogen technology as an efficient method for nitrogen production.

We’ll explain how membrane nitrogen generators work, discuss nitrogen membrane generator benefits, and discuss where membrane N2 generators are used. The professionals at On Site Gas Systems are here to help you decide if a membrane N2 generator is right for your industrial processes.

Understanding Membrane Nitrogen Technology

I. What Is Membrane Nitrogen Separation?

An N2 membrane generator uses compressed air and a polymeric hollow-fiber membrane to separate nitrogen and oxygen through a process called selective permeability.

II. How Does It Work?

During operation of the generator, compressed air is pushed into the unit. Air enters the polymeric hollow-fiber membrane. Oxygen is expelled from the generator, while nitrogen is funneled into a steady stream that is produced at the opposite end of the generator. During this process, different gases diffuse at different rates to achieve nitrogen purity.

III. Benefits of Membrane Nitrogen Technology

There are many benefits of membrane nitrogen technology. Understanding these benefits can help you decide if this kind of product is right for your business.

1. Simple and Low-Maintenance Operation

Membrane nitrogen technology involves few moving parts. This reduces the need for frequent maintenance. Membrane nitrogen generators function for years while requiring minimal maintenance and care. As a result, membrane N2 generators have a long service life.

2. Cost-Effective and Energy-Efficient

Membrane nitrogen generators require lower energy consumption compared to methods like cryogenic separation. In addition, nitrogen membrane generators do not need ongoing nitrogen cylinder deliveries. This helps reduce operational costs.

While nitrogen cylinder delivery can add up to thousands of dollars spent over time, membrane nitrogen generators require only one upfront payment. Once installed, membrane nitrogen generators use little energy and are associated with low monthly energy costs for generator operation. This can save your business thousands of dollars over time.

3. Continuous, On-Demand Nitrogen Supply

A typical membrane N2 generator eliminates reliance on third-party nitrogen suppliers by providing a reliable nitrogen source for industrial applications. No longer will your business need to rent nitrogen cylinders.

Since nitrogen cylinder delivery can be negatively impacted by supply chain problems, using a membrane nitrogen generator can ensure that your business will always have the nitrogen it needs to continue regular business operations.

4. Compact and Modular Design

Membrane nitrogen generators offer a scalable system design to meet specific production needs. Space-saving technology makes membrane N2 generators ideal for mobile and on-site applications. Work with the professionals at On Site Gas Systems to produce a membrane nitrogen generator that’s the right size for your business.

5. Environmentally Friendly Solution

Membrane nitrogen generators produce no harmful emissions, and there are no refrigerants required to operate this type of generator. Membrane nitrogen generators also do not have the carbon footprint associated with nitrogen transportation, so membrane generators are much more environmentally friendly than nitrogen cylinder rental.

IV. Common Applications of Membrane Nitrogen Generators

You can use a nitrogen membrane generator in a range of industries.

• Oil & Gas Industry – Membrane nitrogen generators can be used in pipeline purging, inerting, and blanketing.
• Food & Beverage – Nitrogen generators are used in modified atmosphere packaging to preserve freshness.
• Pharmaceuticals & Laboratories – Nitrogen generators are used to create a controlled environment for drug production and packaging.
• Electronics & Manufacturing – Membrane N2 generators are used for oxidation prevention during soldering.
• Aerospace & Automotive – Nitrogen membrane generators are used in aircraft fuel tank inerting and tire inflation.

Does Your Business Need Membrane Nitrogen Technology? On Site Gas Systems Can Help

Membrane nitrogen technology has many advantages. It’s a reliable, cost-effective nitrogen generation solution for many industries. A typical nitrogen membrane generator is inexpensive to operate, portable, and sustainable (especially when compared to many other methods of nitrogen procurement). If your business needs a steady stream of nitrogen, contact On Site Gas Systems to discuss your nitrogen generation requirements.