What Is a Nitrogen Generator Used For and Other Common Questions

At On Site Gas Systems, we get a lot of questions. Whether our customers are asking us, What does a nitrogen generator do? or How do you make nitrogen gas? we understand that our products can be a bit complicated. To make it simple to understand, here are the short answers to our most commonly asked questions in regards to nitrogen generators.

What Is a Nitrogen Generator Used For?

Nitrogen gas is used in a wide variety of industries, including everything from food packaging to mining, and all of these uses require a consistent supply of nitrogen gas. Many companies use nitrogen cylinders to get the gas they need; however, that is a huge hassle, is a never-ending expense, and can halt production if the delivery doesn’t go smoothly. So what is a nitrogen generator used for? It is used to create nitrogen gas on site so the supply is unlimited and on demand.

What Does a Nitrogen Generator Do?

Very similar to the first question, the answer to What does a nitrogen generator do is that it literally produces nitrogen gas on site at a wide array of facilities. We even have nitrogen generators that can be used in remote locations.

How Do You Produce Nitrogen Gas?/How Do You Make Nitrogen Gas?

These two questions are one in the same, so we will keep them together. In short, there are two ways to answer the question, How do you produce nitrogen gas? The first way is with a PSA nitrogen generator. In this method, the adsorption process is used to separate the nitrogen out of the ordinary air. The second way is with a membrane nitrogen generator. With this method of nitrogen production, the air is forced through hollow fibers that act as reverse filters. The oxygen, CO2, and water in the air are all small, so they will permeate through the fibers. However, the nitrogen molecules are larger, so they will be the only thing left behind.

What Is PSA Technology?

The final common question we receive is, What Is PSA Technology? Basically, PSA stands for Pressure Swing Adsorption, and as mentioned above, the adsorption process literally means separating the nitrogen molecules from the oxygen molecules in the air. It works by filling a sieve-lined vessel with compressed air. The lining adsorbs the small oxygen molecules while the nitrogen molecules continue on into the receiver.
If you have any other questions about nitrogen gas generation that are not answered here, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are the experts in nitrogen gas generators and we would love to help.

Nitro Brew, Nitro Beer, Nitro Pour? Just Give Me A Drink!

If you are a brewer or a bar, you know how important the mouth feel is to the beer you are making/serving. It is everything. When a beer has a better mouth feel, it is more enjoyable to drink and provides a more immersive experience. So it’s no surprise that nitro beer is becoming very popular. Here is a closer look at what a nitro beer is, as well as a discussion of the various terms it goes by, including nitro beer, nitro brew, and nitro pour.

What Is a Nitro Beer

As you know, traditional beer uses carbon dioxide to achieve the carbonation effect that beer is famous for. Recently, brewers have started integrating nitrogen into the brewing process instead of just carbon dioxide. Most commonly, a 70-30 ratio is used: 70% nitrogen to 30% carbon dioxide. The seemingly simple change in the gas usage has quite a big impact on the finished product. The reason is because nitrogen does not react as it dissolves in water like carbon dioxide does, which results in:

  • A smoother, fuller mouth feel. Many describe the feel more like a milkshake than a beer.
  • A larger, longer-lasting head. Instead of quickly dissolving after the beer is poured, a nitro brew will retain its impressive head.
  • A different appearance in the bubbles. Instead of the bubbles looking like they are rising, they look like they are falling, which is just fun to look at.

Nitro Brew, Nitro Beer, Nitro Pour?

Chances are, you have heard all three of the above terms used, but are they talking about different things? In short: no. A nitro brew, a nitro beer, and a nitro pour are all the same thing. However, you will need a specific faucet to pour a nitro beer, which is what some people may be referring to when the say nitro pour. Otherwise, all three terms merely mean a beer that was brewed with a majority of nitrogen gas.

Choose On Site Gas for Your Nitro Brew

While you can always get nitrogen gas delivered to your brewery or your bar every time you need it, there is a better way. With our Nitrogen Blast, you can make your own nitrogen whenever you need it. There is no dealing with the hassles of storing cylinders and arranging for deliveries, and there is no worrying about running out and having to stop production. At On Site Gas Systems, we are your partner in on site nitrogen gas. We have been helping brewers and bar owners make their job easier for nearly 30 years, and we would love to help you too. To learn more about what is nitro beer, contact us now.

Nitrogen Gas in Food Packaging

The actual food product you are creating is only half the battle; you also have to package it in an attractive and effective way. The purpose of food packaging goes far beyond making your product look good: It is responsible for keeping it fresh and minimizing damage in shipping and storage. That’s why most food packaging companies turn to n2 gas. Here is a closer look at why brands use nitrogen gas in food packaging, as well as the main reasons to invest in on site nitrogen gas.

Benefits of Nitrogen Gas in Food Packaging

The main purpose of nitrogen gas in food packaging is to displace the oxygen and fill the air space within the package. All industries and all types of packaging can benefit from nitrogen gas. From cans and bottles to bags and boxes, these are the main benefits of filling your food packaging with nitrogen gas:

  • Your Product Will Have a Longer Shelf Life – Bacteria have to have one thing to survive: oxygen. So, by getting rid of the oxygen and filling the packaging with nitrogen, there is no way for mildew, mold, or other harmful substances to form on your product once it leaves your facility.
  • Your Product Will Maintain Its Quality – Another thing that can destroy your product is moisture. However, when all of the vacant space is full of nitrogen gas, there is no room for the moisture to enter, so you don’t have to worry about it destroying the food.
  • Your Product Will Stay Intact – If you have packaging that leaves no buffer between the food and all of the items it comes into contact with during shipping and storage, you can be sure the product will get broken. However, when you fill the entire container with nitrogen gas, it provides a built-in barrier to keep the food safe from harm.

Why Choose On-Site Nitrogen Gas?

As you can see, using n2 gas in food packaging is an obvious choice. The next clear choice is to invest in your own on-site nitrogen gas system. This way, you can create your own nitrogen gas whenever you need it. You won’t have to deal with the delivery and storage of nitrogen cylinders, and you will never run out of your supply.

At On Site Gas Systems, we are the leading manufacturer of on-site nitrogen gas systems. We can work with you to create a customized n2 gas generator that will help you up your production and reduce the amount of waste your company has to face. To learn more about our on-site nitrogen gas and how it can benefit your food’s packaging, contact us today.

The True Nitrogen Generator Cost: It’s Probably Less Than You Think

If your facility uses nitrogen gas, there is a good chance you have at least considered switching to a nitrogen generator. But if you are like most manufacturers, the first question you have may be what are the real nitrogen generator cost savings? They are probably greater than you realize. Here is a breakdown of the nitrogen generator price after the long-term.

Factors That Impact the Nitrogen Generator Price

The true nitrogen generator cost is much more complex than simply the initial upfront cost. You have to factor in how much you will save when you don’t have to deal with nitrogen cylinders, as well as how the nitrogen generator will impact your efficiency, reduce your waste, and cut back on employee accidents. When including all of these nitrogen generator cost savings, many of our clients recoup the upfront cost of a nitrogen generator within a year, or quicker. Heres a more detailed breakdown:

  • No More Nitrogen Cylinders – Just imagine completely eliminating the never-ending overhead expense of nitrogen cylinders, including the charge for the gas itself, as well as delivery charges, fuel surcharges, tank rental fees, etc. When you have your own nitrogen generator, you can say goodbye to them forever. Once your nitrogen generator is paid for, you will have very little overhead as far as your nitrogen supply is concerned.
  • Less Product Waste – Did you realize that as the nitrogen cylinders are being stored at your facility, they are losing volume? On average, 10% of the tank you paid for may be wasted by the time you use it. Plus, you have to deal with the floor space to store them, which is a waste in itself. With an on-site nitrogen generator, you can make the nitrogen as you need it, so none of it is wasted.
  • Reduce Employee Accidents – Liquid nitrogen is harmfully frigid (its -320 degree Fahrenheit), and, unfortunately, there are sometimes storage leaks with cylinders. This puts employees at risk of burns and skin damage. With your own nitrogen generator, these risks are eliminated.
  • Increase Workplace Efficiency – When you don’t have to worry about the logistics of nitrogen cylinders, and you dont have to risk running out of your supply, your entire operation can run smoother.

As you can see, when looking at the true nitrogen generator costs, the decision to purchase one is a no-brainer. While the upfront capital may seem like a lot, when you break it down and realize how much you will be saving, you can clearly see it is the best long-term decision. To learn more about the real nitrogen generator price, contact us today.

4 Reasons to Choose On Site Gas Systems as Your Nitrogen Generator Supplier

thumb_n-1200We know you have a lot of choices when it comes to choosing a nitrogen generator supplier, and we are confident that when you choose On Site Gas Systems, you will have no regrets. Here is a look at the top four reasons to choose us to provide on site nitrogen gas.

1. On Site Gas Systems Is Proven in the Industry

We have been helping companies produce on site nitrogen gas for over 30 years. You can find our nitrogen generators in all corners of the world, and within a wide variety of industries. We are fully certified—including ISO 9001:2008, ISO 13485:2003, UL, CE, and CSA certification—and we have unparalleled expertise in manufacturing membrane and PSA nitrogen generators.

2. Our On Site Nitrogen is the Smart Choice Financially

By producing your own on site nitrogen with a nitrogen generator instead of relying on liquid nitrogen or cylinder deliveries, you can save your company a lot of time, hassle, and money. In fact, many of our clients find that they have completely recouped the costs of their nitrogen generator within 12-18 months. Since they are built to last for 20 years or more, that means you will have over 18 years of minimal nitrogen gas expenses because you will be producing it yourself using a machine that is paid for.

3. We Manufacture All of Our Products in the USA

Not only do our products help put money back into the US economy, you can depend on the quality of our nitrogen generators. Each one is made in the United States, and we use only top-quality materials to ensure you can depend on your nitrogen generator to be there when you need it. Our nitrogen generators also tout the lowest feed air requirements around.

4. We Can Customize Your System

We know that not every industry is the same, and that even within the same industry, brands like to do things differently. That’s why, as your nitrogen generator supplier, we offer complete customization. Our in-house engineering department boasts over 50 years of combined experience, and they will ensure that the nitrogen generator you get delivered meets your needs to perfection. With a range of purities available, and pre-filtration included, you can be confident that your on site nitrogen gas will be superior quality and will serve its purpose flawlessly.
To learn more about our nitrogen generators and to discover more reasons why on site nitrogen gas can help your company increase production times, improve efficiency, and cut back on costs, contact us today. We would love to discuss the on site nitrogen gas options available for your application.

How Nitrogen Generators Are Used in Dog Food Packaging

A key element in the success of any dog food is that it has a decent shelf life. Dog owners don’t want to have to throw away excess food because their dog couldn’t consume it before it expired. So when dog food companies, like NAPP Manufacturing, want to increase the shelf life of dog food, they turn to nitrogen gas.

Why Dog Food Companies Need Nitrogen

As mentioned, nitrogen in dog food packaging helps extends the food’s shelf life. It does this by removing the oxygen and filling the space with nitrogen. When there is no oxygen left in the packaging, there is no way for bacteria to survive. And when you don’t have to worry about mold or mildew growth, your product will last longer on the shelves. Additionally, nitrogen in dog food packaging will help preserve its quality, so when your consumer feeds it to their dog it will be the same product you put into the bag.

The Problem with Cylinders

Many dog food manufacturers will use cylinders to receive their nitrogen gas, which is exactly what NAPP Manufacturing had been doing. When nitrogen is only received through cylinders, the company has to rely on deliveries, and in the off chance they run out, production is halted until more can be delivered. Not only that, but nitrogen cylinders can be inconsistent. Most nitrogen cylinders do not have purity indicators or volume measurements.
NAPP Manufacturing experienced the trouble of this first hand. Some of their production cycles had an acceptable shelf life, while others couldn’t make it past inspection. And since the cylinders had no controls, they had no way of knowing if the problem was not enough nitrogen and/or an inconsistent purity.

Our Nitrogen Generator to the Rescue

When On Site Gas Systems heard about NAPP’s struggles with their nitrogen, we were there to help. We loaned them one of the nitrogen generators from our rental fleet for 30 days so they could hopefully pinpoint exactly what was causing their shelf life inconsistencies. Since our nitrogen generator had both selectable purity and flow ranges, NAPP Manufacturing was able to quickly pinpoint the ideal setting for their dog food. And, best of all, their results were consistent and cost effective.
At the end of the 30 days, NAPP Manufacturing was not ready to part with the nitrogen generator. Even though they rented one that was more than double the size necessary for their current production needs, they purchased it to ensure they could accommodate future growth. And even though they purchased the larger unit, it paid for itself within 10 months.
As NAPP Manufacturing reports, “Our On Site Gas Systems nitrogen generator was one of our best equipment purchases and with a great ROI.” If you want to experience the benefits of our nitrogen generator first hand, contact us today. Don’t settle for inconsistent nitrogen in dog food: Choose the reliable source of nitrogen gas that will keep your manufacturing facility running smoothly.

Nitrogen Gas On Site In the Mining Industry

Nitrogen plays a critical role in the mining industry, and with a nitrogen gas generator on site, mines can be prepared for any situation that arises. There are two main reasons to use nitrogen gas for mining:

Nitrogen Gas to Extinguish Fires

The main reason to keep a nitrogen gas generator on site at any mining location is to extinguish fires. Fires at a coal mine are a nightmare for both ecological and economical reasons. In fact, some coal mine fires can cost the company as much as two million dollars per day. With nitrogen, a fire can be easily extinguished.
By displacing the oxygen within the mine, the fire can no longer flourish. However, depending on the size of the fire, the process of continuous nitrogen gas injection is required for days, weeks, or even months. This makes having a coal mine nitrogen generator a necessity. Our mine nitrogen generators are extremely portable, produce a consistent supply of nitrogen, and can be used at even the most remote locations.

Nitrogen Gas to Inert Abandoned Areas

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) requires that all sealed areas of the mine are kept inert, or chemically inactive, in order to prevent any explosions in these areas. The other option is to use high pressure seals.  Nitrogen is used to displace the oxygen until there is less than 10% oxygen in the air. As atmospheric conditions change the air in many underground areas will also change resulting in increasing oxygen levels.  This may require continuous nitrogen injection.  With an on-site coal mine nitrogen generator, nitrogen can be produced whenever it is necessary instead of having to wait for it to be delivered.

Why Nitrogen Membrane Generators from On Site Gas Systems

Nitrogen gas for mining is vital, and with an on-site nitrogen gas generator, the mine can save time and money while ensuring their workers stay safe and protected. On Site Gas Systems is renowned for our dependable coal mine nitrogen generators that are available as needed in times of emergency. Our mine nitrogen generators have been used to help extinguish the Pikesville Mine fire in Kentucky, the Buchanan Mine fire in Virginia, and the West Elk Mine fire in Colorado, just to name a few. We were fully operating at each location within 24 hours of learning about the need for a nitrogen generator at these fires.
Whether you need a mine nitrogen generator in an emergency, or you want to have one on hand just in case, you can depend on the nitrogen gas generators by On Site Gas Systems. To learn more about the benefits of our coal mine nitrogen generators, contact us now.

Introducing the O-7-FS-T Oxygen Filling Station

At On Site Gas Systems, we are always innovating the industry to help make your life easier. The latest addition to our lineup is a new and improved oxygen cylinder filling station. Ideal for a variety of industries, including hospitals, first responders, disaster response teams, fire stations, and veterinarians, the O-7-FS-T oxygen filling station can be used on site to fill cylinders to 2250 PSIG with 93 ± 3% oxygen.

About the New O-7-FS-T Oxygen Cylinder Filling Station

The O-7-FS-T is a complete oxygen generator that is housed within an inconspicuous cabinet. It contains everything necessary to generate oxygen and fill oxygen cylinders right on site, wherever that may be. It includes an air compressor, oxygen sensor, oxygen tank, mufflers, sieve beds, pressure transducers, a booster, an HMI (human machine interface) and a PLC (programmable logic controller). This oxygen filling station is capable of producing low-purity oxygen, and it automatically purges low pressure. Built to last in a variety of situations, the O-7-FS-T is able to withstand indoor temperatures ranging from 40 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and it is non-condensing in humidity levels up to 90%.

Benefits of the O-7-FS-T Oxygen Tank Filling Station:

Nitrogen Fill Station
Here is a look at the benefits of this new-and-improved oxygen cylinder filling station:

  • Minimized Foot Print – Since it takes up less space, this oxygen filling station can be used in more diverse situations. The total size of the O-7-FS-T is a mere 20.25 inches wide by 21 inches deep. It is 52 inches tall and weighs 300 pounds.
  • Improved Efficiency – By integrating a PLC controlled with HMI, we are able to make this oxygen filling station simpler to use, saving you valuable time.
  • Built-in Oxygen Analyzer – There’s no need to worry about analyzing the oxygen purity independently when the oxygen tank filling station does it for you.
  • Reduced Noise Output – The O-7-FS-T oxygen filling station produces less than 70 dB(A) from one meter in front of the unit.
  • Lower Power Requirements – This electrical single-phase oxygen filling station only uses 1300 watts of power, helping to reduce your energy expenses.
  • Easy to Operate – This oxygen filling station is effortless to use. You simply attach an empty cylinder and turn it on. There are no complicated processes or confusing switches to master.

The O-7-FS-T oxygen cylinder filling station is ideal if you are looking for a quick, simple way to generate your own oxygen and fill tanks on site. To learn more about our upgraded oxygen cylinder filling station, or to inquire about any of our other oxygen and nitrogen solutions, contact us today.

The Perfect Pint – Nitrogen Gas for Beer in Bars

Craft beer has never been bigger, so it’s important that breweries and bars find a way to make themselves stand out from the competition. One way to do this is with nitrogen infused beer. For decades, carbon dioxide has been used to give beers their famous frothy head, but by putting nitrogen in beer, the beer becomes even smoother and creamier. Many say that nitrogen beer also has a better, less bitter taste. Here’s what you need to know to pour the perfect pint with a nitrogen beer system.

The Complete Nitrogen Beer System

Since you already have a full kegging system at your bar, there are only a few more things you will need to serve nitrogen infused beer:

  • The Perfect Pint – Nitrogen Gas for Beer in BarsNitrogen Gas – Of course, you are going to need nitrogen cylinders if you want to put nitrogen in beer; however, there is a better way than dealing with cylinder deliveries and pick-ups. Instead, get the Nitrogen Blast installed in your bar or brewery and make nitrogen on demand whenever you need it.
  • Nitrogen Regulator – In order to handle the increased pressure of nitrogen, you will need a specific regulator made for nitrogen beer. This regulator is also compatible with the connectors on nitrogen cylinders.
  • Nitrogen Faucet – The faucet is the secret component to pouring the perfect nitrogen infused beer. It has an internal restrictor plate that has very small holes in it, and as the beer is forced through them, the carbon dioxide is reduced and the creamy feel of the nitrogen shines through.

Pouring the Nitrogen Infused Beer

Now that you have the equipment in place, it’s time to perfect the pour. You probably already know the proper pouring technique, but when you add nitrogen, everything changes. Be prepared for some trial and error to get it right, and use these tips to help you get it right:

  • With most nitrogen beer systems, a 30-35 psi works the best. If you have too much foam, your psi is too high, and if there is no cascade, then it is too low. You should start with a psi of 25 and then gradually increase it until you have the perfect balance.
  • As far as the gas blend goes, most people pouring nitrogen infused beer opt for a mix of 75% nitrogen and 25% carbon dioxide. But again, you can experiment with this to see what gives you the best result.

While it may seem daunting, once you get the process of dispensing nitrogen infused beer down, you will have a beautiful, delicious, enviable beer to serve your customers. To learn more about our on-site nitrogen beer system, contact us today.

Visit On Site Gas Systems at the EastPack Trade Show

east-pack-logo
The largest annual packaging, manufacturing, and design event is coming to New York, and we couldn’t be more excited. The EastPack Trade Show is the most comprehensive packaging expo on the East Coast, bringing together more than 900 exhibitors and over 9,000 attendees. This year, it will take place from June 13 to June 15 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City, and we hope to see you there!

About the EastPack Trade Show

The EastPack Trade Show is sponsored by Packaging Digest, amongst others, and is loaded with opportunities to learn from the best minds in the industry, experience the latest innovations, and network with thousands of like minds. And this year, Steve Wozniak, the co-founder of Apple, is the Keynote Speaker, so that is sure to be insightful.
Perhaps the most exciting feature of the EastPack Trade Show is that it will share the expo space with five other incredible advanced manufacturing, packaging, and design trade shows, and you get access to them all with the Conference Pass. The EastPack Trade Show exhibitors will introduce you to the most advanced, cutting-edge technologies in the packaging and manufacturing industry, and we are thrilled to be a part of it.

How On Site Gas Systems Can Help

We are excited to introduce the benefits of on-site nitrogen and oxygen generation to the thousands of people who can improve their efficiency and increase their bottom line by incorporating our systems. We will be demonstrating how our on-site gas systems can solve some of the toughest packaging challenges out there, and we will be available to answer any and all questions regarding our nitrogen and oxygen generators.
From extending shelf life in the food industry, to providing proper headspace in the chemical industry, to removing contaminants in the pharmaceutical industry, our on-site nitrogen generators will change the way these brands do business.
No matter what type of packaging you use or what industry you are in, On Site Gas Systems will help you find a solution that is customized to your specific needs. With an on-site nitrogen or oxygen generator, you don’t have to deal with the hassle of cylinder deliveries or bulk gas purchases. Many of our clients recoup the costs of their generator quickly, improving their bottom line dramatically in the long term.
We have modified atmosphere packaging solutions for nearly every industry, and we would love to show you how we can help you improve the way you do business. To learn more, contact us now, or visit us at Booth 2944 at the EastPack Trade Show. We hope to see you there!