The Role of Membrane Nitrogen Technology in Sustainability Efforts

Nitrogen gas plays an important role in various manufacturing and industrial processes. From food packaging to the aerospace industry, there is a growing need for sustainable gas generation solutions in businesses of many types. Although businesses purchase nitrogen in cylinders and other types of packages, this method of nitrogen delivery has environmental and cost downsides.

In this article, we’ll discuss how membrane nitrogen technology delivers a continuous, reliable supply of nitrogen while contributing to commercial sustainability efforts. Membrane nitrogen technology gives businesses a way of generating their nitrogen through environmentally friendly means.

What Is Membrane Nitrogen Technology?

The air contains a combination of nitrogen and oxygen along with small amounts of other gases. Membrane nitrogen generators use a selective permeation process to separate nitrogen from oxygen.

In a membrane generator, compressed air is pushed into the unit. The membrane nitrogen generator contains polymer fibers in a membrane. Each fiber has tiny holes that can fit oxygen and other gas molecules, but not nitrogen. During the nitrogen generation process, gasses are passed through the holes in the fiber, separating oxygen from nitrogen. Oxygen is expelled as waste, and the membrane nitrogen generator produces a steady stream of nitrogen for industrial purposes.

There are many advantages to using a membrane nitrogen generator instead of a nitrogen cylinder or another form of nitrogen delivery. Some of those advantages include:

  • Less reliance on fossil fuels: Nitrogen cylinder delivery happens via vehicles that use fossil fuels. Membrane nitrogen generators use little power to function and thus can shrink your business’s carbon footprint.
  • Cost efficiency: In addition to being good for the environment, nitrogen generators are cost-efficient. Nitrogen generators are sold for a one-time cost, whereas nitrogen cylinders are rented or purchased for an ongoing cost. Over time, businesses with membrane nitrogen generators can save money compared to businesses that depend on nitrogen cylinders.
  • Requires little energy: Membrane nitrogen generators have low power consumption and few moving parts. They’re durable and long-lasting.

Sustainability Benefits of Membrane Nitrogen Technology

If your business prioritizes sustainability, there are many reasons to get a membrane nitrogen generator:

Energy Efficiency

Membrane technology has low energy consumption and the ability to supply nitrogen on demand. This helps reduce your business’s overall carbon footprint.

Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Installing a nitrogen generator onsite eliminates the need for transportation of nitrogen cylinders, dewars, and other containers. On-site production minimizes fuel consumption and thus minimizes emissions. Since cryogenic nitrogen requires special storage conditions, membrane nitrogen generation can cut back on energy consumption in this way as well.

Waste Reduction and Resource Conservation

There are no byproducts or chemical waste in membrane nitrogen generation. Whereas single-use nitrogen cylinders and liquid nitrogen storage can produce waste, membrane nitrogen generators are virtually waste-free.

Long-Term Cost Savings

Membrane nitrogen technology has lower operational and maintenance costs than nitrogen cylinder delivery. Businesses that switch to membrane nitrogen generators enjoy reduced dependency on third-party nitrogen suppliers. Since these nitrogen suppliers can experience disruptions in service and problems with the supply chain, the result of using a generator is more consistent availability of nitrogen and long-term cost savings.

Eco-Friendly Applications

Nitrogen allows businesses to package and preserve food without harmful chemicals. Nitrogen also helps reduce environmental risks through inerting and blanketing, which prevents oxidation, moisture contamination, and combustion.

Need a Nitrogen Generator Membrane System? Contact Us

Membrane nitrogen technology supports commercial sustainability efforts in many ways. If your business prioritizes sustainability and needs nitrogen for its industrial processes, a membrane nitrogen generator may be the right option for your business.

The best way to find out if a nitrogen generator membrane system is right for your needs is to consult with a reputable membrane nitrogen generator manufacturer. This is why many people turn to On Site Gas Systems’ solutions for sustainable nitrogen supply.

As one of the leaders of membrane nitrogen generators, we can help you find a nitrogen generator membrane system to service your business with a continuous supply of nitrogen. Contact us today to get started by speaking to one of our membrane nitrogen experts!

The Economic Advantages of Switching to On-Site Nitrogen Gas Generators

Nitrogen gas is used in many industries for various purposes including flushing out oxygen and preventing oxidation or corrosion of materials. Nitrogen is also useful because of its inert properties. It is non-reactive with various elements and can be used to create a stable environment. Nitrogen is used in the food and beverage industry, pharmaceuticals, steel welding, electronics manufacturing, and more.

Nitrogen may be delivered to businesses via cylinders, dewars, and bulk delivery. Nitrogen can also be drawn from the air and separated from other gases in the atmosphere using a nitrogen gas generator. Nitrogen gas generators save businesses money, and we’ll discuss the many benefits of nitrogen generators for your industrial purposes.

Traditional Nitrogen Supply Methods

Traditional nitrogen supply methods include cylinders, dewars, and bulk delivery.

  • Cylinders: Nitrogen cylinders are typically five feet tall and contain about 230 cubic feet of gaseous nitrogen. Cylinders are one of the most common nitrogen supply methods.
  • Dewars: A cryogenic dewar is a large container that holds a cold liquid. Dewars have a vacuum space between the cold liquid nitrogen and the outside world.
  • Bulk delivery: In bulk deliveries, liquid nitrogen is delivered through a tank and pumped into the truck on demand.

These delivery methods are all associated with hidden and recurring costs, such as rental fees and handling charges.

Nitrogen Generator

On-Site Nitrogen Generators: An Overview

On-site nitrogen generators are an alternative to traditional nitrogen delivery, such as cylinders and dewars.

  • Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) Nitrogen Generators: Pressure swing nitrogen generators have two cylinders that each contain a carbon molecular sieve for nitrogen adsorption. PSA nitrogen generators work by first pressurizing one cylinder and then another. During this process, the sieve adsorbs gases like oxygen, and the nitrogen is expelled from the generator in a continuous stream.
  • Membrane Nitrogen Generators: Membrane nitrogen generators separate nitrogen from other elements through a membrane.

Industries that Benefit from Nitrogen Production

Many industries benefit from nitrogen production, including:

  • Food and beverage: Nitrogen is used in food packaging. In this industry, nitrogen is used to flush oxygen from food packages, preventing foods from developing off-odors and flavors. Nitrogen can also be used in beverage packaging.
  • Pharmaceuticals: Nitrogen helps stabilize sensitive medications by creating an inert environment for medication packaging.
  • Aerospace: Nitrogen is used to create strong welds in the aerospace industry. N2 can also be used to displace air in fuel tanks.
  • Oil and gas industry: In the oil and gas industry, nitrogen is used to purge pipelines and tanks. Nitrogen is much safer than oxygen and can be used to prevent workplace accidents.

Key Economic Advantages

Cost Savings

Businesses that rely on nitrogen delivery pay a lot every month for delivery and handling fees, not to mention that the cost of the nitrogen is a lot higher than if you generate it with a On Site Gas Systems Nitrogen Generator. Nitrogen generators allow businesses to enjoy reduced dependency on external suppliers and save them money.

Predictable Operating Costs

Unlike nitrogen delivery services, nitrogen generators have a fixed cost structure. They also have minimal maintenance expenses. Nitrogen generators are energy-efficient technologies that ensure long-term savings for businesses.

Improved Operational Efficiency

Businesses that are dependent upon nitrogen delivery are at the mercy of their suppliers. When supply chain problems get in the way, businesses may not have the nitrogen they need when they need it. Having on-demand nitrogen reduces downtime, and enables businesses to remain operational.

Scalability and Flexibility

Nitrogen production from a nitrogen generator can easily be scaled up or down, based on business growth and demand. This tailored output allows your business to meet the needs of your customers without waiting for nitrogen suppliers to deliver more nitrogen.

Hidden Benefits of Onsite Nitrogen Generator

In addition to the benefits of onsite nitrogen generators named above, there are also hidden benefits of on-site nitrogen generation.

  • Environmental Savings: Using a nitrogen generator can help reduce your business’ carbon footprint. Nitrogen generators are energy-efficient and do not require regular delivery from trucks that use fossil fuels.
  • Increased Safety: Storing high-pressure nitrogen cylinders can be dangerous for employees, but using a nitrogen generator can reduce the risk of accidents at the workplace.
  • Operational Autonomy: On-site nitrogen generation gives your business full control over your nitrogen supply without reliance on third parties.

Need An Onsite Nitrogen Generator? Contact Us

The benefits of onsite N2 generators are clear – they save money, give your business more control over your industrial processes, and allow your business to operate more efficiently. To learn more about installing an onsite nitrogen generator for your business, visit onsitegas.com for customized nitrogen solutions.

Nitrogen Generators vs. Cylinder Supply – Why On-Site Generation Is the Smarter Choice

Nitrogen plays an important role in many industries, including food and beverage, electronics manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, steel manufacturing, and the oil and gas industries. For these businesses, there are two primary methods of acquiring nitrogen: cylinders and on-site generation.

If your business requires nitrogen for its industrial or manufacturing purposes, you have a choice to make. Nitrogen generation has many advantages over nitrogen cylinder delivery. Businesses that switch to on-site generation can save money and enjoy a steady, reliable stream of nitrogen.

Nitrogen Cylinders vs. On-Site Generators

Nitrogen Cylinders

Pre-filled nitrogen cylinders from the supplier are delivered by businesses via truck. These cylinders must be stored upright in a cool, dry, safe area, away from emergency exits and corrosive materials.

Nitrogen cylinders contain pressurized gas and need to be protected from high heat and should never be allowed to exceed 125 degrees Fahrenheit. Empty cylinders should be stored away from full cylinders. During deliveries, full nitrogen cylinders are exchanged for empty cylinders.

Nitrogen can be used in many ways, including:

  • Flush oxygen from food packaging to preserve food taste and flavor
  • Create an inert environment for medications
  • Purge pipelines and tanks in the oil and gas industries
  • Strengthen metal joints in steel welding and cutting

On-Site Nitrogen Generators

On-site nitrogen generators come in two types:

  • Pressure swing adsorption (PSA): A PSA nitrogen generator uses two beds. Each bed contains a carbon molecular sieve. As one bed is pressurized, the other is depressurized, causing adsorption that leads to a steady stream of nitrogen. PSA systems easily produce high-purity nitrogen gas.
  • Membrane nitrogen generation: A membrane nitrogen generator is a relatively simple device that uses a membrane to separate nitrogen from other gases in the air.

Both types of generators offer customizable nitrogen purity levels, so your business can get the nitrogen it needs at the purity level required for general operations.

Key Benefits of On-Site Nitrogen Generation

There are many clear benefits of on-site nitrogen generation.

Cost Savings

Delivery costs and rental fees can add up over time. Using an on-site nitrogen generator can eliminate these fees, saving your business money. The more you use your nitrogen generator, the more money your business saves on the cost of nitrogen per cubic meter.  Traditionally a Nitrogen Generator will generate nitrogen for a fraction of the cost of purchasing nitrogen.

Convenience and Efficiency

On-site nitrogen generation allows for a continuous, on-demand supply of nitrogen. Businesses that are dependent on nitrogen cylinder delivery are vulnerable to delays and supply chain disruptions, potentially causing disruptions to the manufacturing process. Whether you are running one shift or three shifts, the nitrogen generator will provide an endless nitrogen supply for all shifts.

Environmental Benefits

On-site nitrogen generation is inherently more eco-friendly. On-site nitrogen generation requires little energy, while cylinder delivery is dependent on trucks that burn fossil fuels.

Safety Advantages

The use of on-site nitrogen generation reduces the handling and usage of high-pressure cylinders. This minimizes the risks of leaks and accidents, thus creating a safer workplace environment.

Drawbacks of Nitrogen Cylinder Supply

Recurring Costs

Over many years, businesses have spent thousands of dollars on nitrogen cylinder delivery. These recurring costs may look small each month, but over time, costs add up!

Storage Challenges

Nitrogen cylinders are bulky and have specific storage requirements. For businesses with limited space, nitrogen cylinder storage can be a burden.

Supply Inconsistencies

Delays from the nitrogen generator cylinder filling station can cause production disruptions. Supply chain problems with the nitrogen generator with cylinder filling manufacturer can also become an administrative headache, as businesses search for new suppliers when disruptions occur.

Safety Concerns

There are safety risks associated with handling and transporting pressurized cylinders. Businesses must train workers to manage nitrogen cylinders carefully.

The On Site Gas Systems Advantage

On Site Gas produces nitrogen generators, including membrane and PSA nitrogen gas generators. We create custom solutions that are tailored to the needs of your business and industry. On Site Gas also offers long-term support and maintenance, for increased customer satisfaction.

Contact On Site Gas Systems

On-site nitrogen generation has many advantages over cylinder delivery. Businesses that use on-site nitrogen generation can save thousands of dollars over time while enjoying a reliable supply of nitrogen that won’t run out or experience supply chain disruption. The purity of on-site nitrogen can be easily controlled. On-site nitrogen generation is the smart choice for businesses that need nitrogen on hand.

If your business still relies on nitrogen cylinder delivery for your manufacturing or industrial processes, consider an on-site nitrogen generator for your business. To learn more about how On Site Gas Systems can help you with a nitrogen generator, contact us for a free consultation or product demo.

High-Purity Nitrogen Generators – Why Purity Matters for Critical Applications

Nitrogen is an important gas that plays a critical role in a variety of industries with nitrogen purity playing an important role that can impact the success of many businesses. If you’re a business owner or engineer who relies on nitrogen as a part of your process, it’s important to understand the benefits of high-purity nitrogen and how purity levels impact industrial processes.

What Is High-Purity Nitrogen?

Nitrogen purity refers to how much nitrogen is present in an environment versus other gases. High-purity nitrogen is nitrogen in concentrations of 99.99% up to 99.9995%. High-purity nitrogen differs from lower-grade nitrogen because lower-grade nitrogen contains a larger percentage of oxygen.

The Importance of Purity in Critical Applications

If you are an engineer or business owner managing an industrial process that relies on high-purity nitrogen, this is why nitrogen purity matters.

  • Protect product quality: The Electronic Manufacturing Industry is one example of an industry that relies heavily on High Purity Nitrogen in many of its processes.  The need to eliminate oxygen is critical so you will see the purity ranges from 99.99% to 99.999% as standard.
  • Maintain sterility in pharmaceuticals and medical applications: Sterility is essential for maintaining safety standards and ensuring that medication is effective for patients. Nitrogen can flush moisture and oxygen from the air and maintain a sterile, safe environment for storing medication.
  • Increasing process efficiency: Nitrogen ensures precise results in electronics manufacturing while preventing moisture contamination during phases of the electronics manufacturing process. High-purity nitrogen supports sensitive chemical and industrial processes, helping to ensure quality at every stage where it is involved.
  • Ensure compliance: High-purity nitrogen meets regulatory standards in industries like healthcare and aerospace, where quality matters. Companies must monitor their nitrogen quality to ensure compliance and maintain the level of quality expected for their industry.

Key Industries That Rely on High-Purity Nitrogen

There are several key industries that rely on high-purity nitrogen.

  • Pharmaceuticals: Nitrogen helps to create an aseptic environment for drug manufacturing. Nitrogen can flush out moisture and prevent oxygen, which can lead to oxidation and deterioration of medication.
  • Electronics: Nitrogen prevents oxidation during the manufacturing process, to ensure a strong and long-lasting solder.
  • Chemical and petrochemical: In these industries, nitrogen supports a controlled reaction. Nitrogen is also used for safety reasons. As an inert gas, nitrogen creates a safe environment for storing and transporting various reactive substances.
  • Aerospace: In the aerospace industry, nitrogen is used to increase reliability in fuel systems. As in the chemical and petrochemical industries, nitrogen can prevent combustion from occurring when a source of ignition is introduced to a fuel system.

Benefits of On-Site High-Purity Nitrogen Generation

While some industries rely on cylinders for their nitrogen source, there are many reasons to use a high-purity nitrogen generator to meet your company’s nitrogen needs.

Cost efficiency

Cylinders may seem affordable when delivered in small quantities, but these costs can add up over time. The use of a high-purity nitrogen generator eliminates recurring delivery costs. With a very short ROI term, the cost of maintaining and using the generator is much lower than the cost of managing nitrogen deliveries.

Continuous supply

Whereas nitrogen delivery can lead to supply chain problems, ultra-high purity nitrogen generators avoid downtime and ensure process consistency. Your nitrogen generator will always be on-site to deliver endless nitrogen on demand.

Customizable purity levels

Many businesses need nitrogen of varying purity levels to ensure the desired results. Nitrogen generators make it easy to tailor nitrogen output to meet specific application needs.

Environmental Benefits

Nitrogen generators are inherently green and sustainable. Nitrogen generators draw nitrogen from the air and produce a steady stream of nitrogen while using little energy. Nitrogen that is delivered usually arrives via vehicles that rely on fossil fuels. Using a nitrogen generator reduces waste and reliance on this type of transportation.

How to Choose the Right High-Purity Nitrogen Generator

Does your business need a high-purity N2 generator? Here’s how you can tell:

Assess your application needs

Determine the nitrogen purity level required by your business to ensure optimal industrial processes. Work with your engineers and process managers to ensure high-quality industrial processes and compliance with regulations.

Understand your usage volume

Choose a nitrogen generator system that matches operational demand. Your business leaders and engineers can work with experts at On Site Gas Systems to make this possible.

Evaluate your long-term costs

To ensure that your company remains financially solvent, it’s important to balance your initial investment with operational savings. Find out how long it will take for your business to start saving money after paying the initial cost of the ultra-high purity nitrogen generator.

Ensure scalability

Does your organization plan to expand in the future? Does your business anticipate increased demand for nitrogen in years to come? Work with the experts at On Site Gas Systems to ensure that your high-purity N2 generator will keep up with demand even as your business increases its production.

Does Your Business Need an N2 Generator? Contact Us

Ultra-high purity nitrogen generators are important for various critical applications in many industries. High-purity nitrogen generators boost efficiency, quality, and compliance by ensuring a steady stream of reliably pure nitrogen for your business. If your business needs high-purity nitrogen generators to ensure streamlined and efficient operation, contact On Site Gas Systems for tailored N2 generator solutions.