What is a Nitrogen Generator and Why Should You Buy One?

For many businesses, nitrogen gas is deeply integrated into the workday. Industries ranging from food processing to mining use this resource regularly, and the supply of it is essential to the core of operations. Unfortunately, traditional nitrogen gas acquisition requires the rental, delivery, installation, and removal of high-pressure cylinders. Canisters are inefficient, causing a lapse in production if delivery is late or supply is low. This process is not only more expensive than it needs to be, but it also creates more opportunities for workplace injuries.

Nitrogen generators, on the other hand, offer a better option. If your company is a regular user of nitrogen systems, consider installing your own nitrogen generator to enjoy the extensive benefits they provide.

onsite nitrogen generation

What is a Nitrogen Generator?

Before exploring the many advantages of on-site nitrogen generation, it’s imperative to know what a nitrogen generator is and how it works. These machines perform processes called Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) and Membrane Technology, which extract nitrogen from the air and compress it.

Nitrogen generators offer a continuous flow of pure nitrogen right to your production floor and eliminate any need to wait for canister deliveries or remain at the mercy of supplier prices. While the resource provided is essentially the same, the generator produces the nitrogen rather than having it transported in cylinders.

Uses of a Nitrogen Generator

There are many applications for nitrogen gas across a variety of industries. Any industry that currently uses nitrogen canister, cylinder, dewar, or liquid deliveries can benefit from an in-house nitrogen generation system. Depending on what line of business you’re in, a nitrogen gas generator can work seamlessly into your manufacturing process in different ways.

One of the most common industries for nitrogen gas is food and beverage production. Nitrogen helps to preserve food inside its packaging and extend its shelf life. This is doubly important for bulk food products that might be stored for longer periods, as well as foods that don’t include preservatives in their ingredient lists.

The wine industry also benefits from nitrogen, as it helps keep the wine from going bad. In a non-consumable sense, nitrogen also extends the shelf life of things like paint and household solvents and prevents moisture and condensation in electronic part production. Additionally, nitrogen plays an integral role in quality assurance and consistency. On-site generators allow you to perform all of these tasks and more without a third-party supplier.

Why Make the Switch?

While disrupting and changing your current process can seem daunting, owning a nitrogen generator has numerous benefits that far outweigh any reservations you may have. The advantages of a nitrogen generator are widespread and touch on nearly every aspect of your business.

nitrogen applications

Below are the primary benefits of switching to an in-house nitrogen generator:

1. Improved Safety

Replacing and transporting nitrogen cylinders presents a safety hazard to your team. Nitrogen generators stabilize the gas, so you don’t have to worry about explosions or injuries. In fact, they’re so safe that they can be installed right on the floor of your production room where they’re needed most. There is no risk to your employees’ wellbeing.

2. Unparalleled Reliability

Unlike canisters, cylinders, dewars, and liquid methods, nitrogen generators produce an infinite supply of gas, so you never have to worry about pausing production to wait for a delivery. While local nitrogen deliveries can run out or run late, a generator system keeps up with your demand and works on your schedule.

3. Fewer Wasted Resources

Approximately 10 to 20 percent of a canister’s, cylinder’s, dewar’s or liquid method’s nitrogen gas is left unused. This can lead to higher costs and waste production levels. Generators do not have this issue, so you can rest assured that all of your reserves are being used efficiently.

4. Increased Savings

While canisters, cylinders, dewars, and liquid methods come with expensive rental and delivery fees and restrictive contracts, generators require very little beyond their initial cost. In fact, most companies see a return on investment in under two years.

After the initial investment is recouped, generators cost about one-tenth of the price of canisters, cylinders, dewars, and liquid methods per year. That’s a 90 percent difference in operating costs, which creates a significant surplus for most companies.

5. Customization Options

Canister, cylinders, dewars, and liquid methods are one-size-fits-all, but generators can be tailored to meet your exact requirements. This means that your machine will work at maximum efficiency, producing the precise amount of gas you need to maintain operations.

Bottom Line

Nitrogen generators can revolutionize your company’s production process, lowering your utility costs and improving your efficiency. Without dealing with the hassles of nitrogen cylinder delivery, you can grow your business to new heights.

author avatar
Salman Zafar
Salman Zafar is the CEO of BioEnergy Consult, and an international consultant, advisor and trainer with expertise in waste management, biomass energy, waste-to-energy, environment protection and resource conservation. His geographical areas of focus include Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Salman has successfully accomplished a wide range of projects in the areas of biogas technology, biomass energy, waste-to-energy, recycling and waste management. Salman has participated in numerous national and international conferences all over the world. He is a prolific environmental journalist, and has authored more than 300 articles in reputed journals, magazines and websites. In addition, he is proactively engaged in creating mass awareness on renewable energy, waste management and environmental sustainability through his blogs and portals. Salman can be reached at salman@bioenergyconsult.com or salman@cleantechloops.com.

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