Nitrogen Gas Generator Maintenance Tips For Long-Lasting Performance

Nitrogen gas generators are important equipment in industries ranging from the food and beverage industries to electronics and welding, pharmaceuticals, and more. As an inert gas, nitrogen can prevent oxidation and corrosion, leading to the degradation of many of the products we use daily.

Many businesses purchase nitrogen generators because they’re a cost-effective tool for producing a constant supply of nitrogen, on-demand. If your business uses a nitrogen generator for everyday processes, maintaining your generator can help extend your generator’s service life and ensure optimal performance.

In this article, we’ll talk about how your nitrogen generator works and what you can do to improve your nitrogen generator’s performance. By performing daily and weekly maintenance checks, and by performing monthly and quarterly maintenance, you can help extend the service life of your generator.

Understanding Nitrogen Gas Generator Maintenance

Nitrogen generators work by removing the nitrogen from the surrounding air with different types of generators operating in different ways. Membrane nitrogen generators use a membrane to separate nitrogen molecules from other molecules, while pressure swing adsorption uses a carbon molecular sieve.

What type of nitrogen generator your business uses depends on factors like how pure the nitrogen needs to be, how much nitrogen your business requires, and other factors.

When you purchase a nitrogen generator from On Site Gas, we’ll help you determine what type of generator is best for your business. We’ll also provide instructions for maintaining your generator.

Daily Maintenance Checks

Inspect your nitrogen generator every day for leaks and damage, here’s how:

1. Check for leaks: Check pressure levels and ensure they’re within the recommended range. Perform a visual inspection of connections between pipes. Leaks make your nitrogen generator work harder and longer, adding to the wear and tear on your equipment.
2. Look for damage: Perform a visual inspection for damage. Look for corrosion, dents, and damage to the pressure instruments.
3. Monitor for system alarms and address warnings immediately: The meaning of various alarms should be outlined in your nitrogen generator documentation. Most nitrogen generators have an N2 Available LED indicator which should be on throughout operation. If it turns off, get guidance from your nitrogen generator manufacturer.
4. Maintain proper ventilation and temperature control: Do not let the environment around the nitrogen generator exceed 94 degrees Fahrenheit. Check fans and vents around your generator to ensure they’re not covered.

Six Month Maintenance Procedures

Most units may require filter changes every six months. Begin by replacing worn-out filters, as these can impact your nitrogen generator’s efficiency. Inspect the filters quarterly and replace them as needed.

If your nitrogen generator has a desiccant dryer, inspect and service the dryer every six months or according to the manufacturers’ recommended service schedule to ensure it is functioning properly. Additionally, review and update your maintenance logs and records, looking for trends that could indicate potential problems. This proactive approach helps in identifying issues early and maintaining the overall efficiency of your nitrogen generator.

Annual Maintenance Checklist

Once per year you may require additional filter changes and calibration or replacement of the oxygen sensor. Please contact Customer Service at On Site Gas Systems to obtain necessary parts or to schedule service.

Best Practices for Prolonging the Life of Your Generator

Every nitrogen generator is different, but some best practices can help prolong the life of your generator. Use high-quality replacement parts from the system manufacturer to ensure compatibility and performance. Train staff on proper operation, safety, and maintenance procedures to prevent misuse and accidents.

Schedule regular professional inspections and servicing to catch potential issues early. Position your generator in a location that allows easy access for maintenance procedures, and keep the installation area clean, dry, and dust-free to prevent environmental damage and ensure optimal operation.

Maintain Your Nitrogen Generator With Help from On Site Gas

By maintaining a nitrogen generator and regularly inspecting it, you can address repairs promptly to significantly extend its service life. By implementing and maintaining a proactive maintenance plan, you can ensure your generator’s long-lasting performance. The experts at On Site Gas are ready to assist you. Call us today to discuss your nitrogen generator and get answers to any maintenance questions you may have.