PneuTech Nitrogen Generators

Yes, you can make your own nitrogen gas using an onsite nitrogen generator, which separates nitrogen from other gases in compressed air. This method provides a steady, on-demand nitrogen supply, reducing costs and eliminating the need for cylinder or bulk deliveries. Onsite generation also allows you to adjust purity and flow rates to suit your specific needs.

Pure nitrogen is generated by passing compressed air through a nitrogen generator, which isolates nitrogen from oxygen and other gases. PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption) systems achieve high purities by adsorbing oxygen and other contaminants, while membrane generators use selective filtration through semi-permeable membranes. Both methods allow you to produce nitrogen at the purity required for your application, from moderate to ultra-high levels. Membrane N2 generators typically can achieve purity levels up to 99.9%, while PSA N2 generators can achieve purity as high as 99.999%. 

Pressure-swing adsorption (PSA) nitrogen generators use specialized adsorbents to separate nitrogen, reaching ultra-high purity levels (up to 99.999%), which is ideal for applications like pharmaceuticals and electronics. Membrane nitrogen generators, by contrast, use semi-permeable membranes that filter out oxygen and water vapor to deliver moderate purity (up to 99.9%). Membrane systems are typically more compact and energy-efficient, making them suitable for applications that don't need ultra-high purity. PSA systems are more suitable for applications requiring higher flow rates and ultra-high nitrogen purity. 

The nitrogen output of a generator varies significantly based on the technology, model and size. It also depends on nitrogen purity: For a given nitrogen generator, there is typically a tradeoff between purity and flow rate: as nitrogen purity increases, the maximum achievable flow rate often decreases. This is because higher purity levels require more extensive separation processes, which can reduce overall output. 

• Membrane nitrogen generators are generally used for moderate purity applications and can produce flow rates ranging from 5 to 500 cubic feet per hour (CFH), making them suitable for smaller to mid-sized applications such as food packaging and inerting. 

PSA nitrogen generators, on the other hand, are capable of delivering ultra-high purity nitrogen and can be scaled for high-demand applications, with flow rates ranging from a few liters per minute for smaller needs up to several thousand CFH for large industrial operations.

The cost of a nitrogen generator depends on factors like the technology (PSA or membrane), purity and flow requirements, and the system's overall size and capacity. Small, lower-flow membrane systems may start around $5,000–$10,000, while larger PSA systems designed for high purity and industrial applications can range from $15,000 to over $100,000. While the initial investment may seem high, the long-term savings from reduced delivery costs often lead to a full return on investment within 8–18 months.

An air compressor is an essential component of most nitrogen generation systems. The compressor supplies the high-pressure air required for the nitrogen generator to separate nitrogen molecules from other gases, like oxygen and carbon dioxide, in the air. The type of air compressor required for nitrogen generation depends on the specific needs of your nitrogen generation system, including the flow rate, pressure, and quality of air needed. Most nitrogen generation systems work best with rotary screw compressors due to their ability to provide a continuous, steady flow of compressed air.

Compressed air for nitrogen generation must be clean, dry and oil-free to ensure efficient operation and the longevity of your system, with specific requirements depending on whether you use a membrane or pressure swing adsorption (PSA) generator. 

• PSA systems, which rely on adsorbent materials to separate nitrogen from other gases, typically require a higher level of air cleanliness than membrane systems. PSA generators need air that meets or exceeds ISO 8573 Class 1 standards for oil and particulates, with a dew point of -40°F (-40°C) or lower to avoid moisture saturation in the adsorbent beds. 
• Membrane systems, while generally more tolerant, still require clean, dry air to prevent damage to the fibers and ensure consistent separation performance. These systems often operate effectively with air quality that meets Class 1 for oil, Class 2 for particulates, and a dew point of -40°F or better.

To ensure your compressed air meets these requirements, it is essential to incorporate a high-quality air treatment system. This includes coalescing filters to remove oil and particulates, desiccant dryers or refrigerated dryers to achieve the required dew point, and particulate filters to capture fine dust.For PSA systems, an additional oil vapor filter may be necessary to prevent contamination of the adsorbent material.