A nitrogen generator is a piece of equipment that is designed to produce nitrogen gas from atmospheric air. Nitrogen generators have a long life cycle, and with proper care, can provide many years of reliable service.
There are several factors that will affect how long a nitrogen generator lasts including the type of nitrogen generator, how it is operated and maintained, and the quality of the components used in construction. In this article, we will discuss how long nitrogen generators last and how you can ensure that your generator operates at peak efficiency for as long as possible.
How to Ensure the Longevity of Your Nitrogen Generating Systems
PSA nitrogen generators are typically designed with an equipment life cycle of 20 to 25 years. Membrane nitrogen generators also have a long life cycle. Some manufacturer’s membranes can last up to 15 years before replacement is required. With proper care and maintenance both PSA and membrane nitrogen generators can last even longer.
Below are some tips to help you extend the life cycle of your nitrogen generators.
Ensure Your Compressed Air Supply is Clean and Dry
One of the most important ways to extend the life cycle of your nitrogen generator is to ensure your compressed air supply is clean and dry. The most common causes of nitrogen generator premature failure is compressed air contamination from compressor oil or water. Compressed air supplied to a nitrogen generator must be dried to a minimum 40 degree F or 5 degree C dewpoint, typical of what is achieved by a refrigerated type compressed air dryer.
All nitrogen generators also require compressed air filtration if using an oil lubricated air compressor. Three stages of compressed air filtration are strongly recommended, a general efficiency coalescing filter, a high efficiency coalescing filter and a final activated carbon filter. This will ensure the compressed air going into the nitrogen generator is technically oil-free and ensure optimal air separation performance.
Strictly Adhere to Recommended Maintenance Schedules
It is very important to carry our routine daily inspection of the nitrogen generating system that only take a minute or two. Check nitrogen purity and check compressed air receiver tanks for signs of visible moisture in the compressed air supply.
Longer term the other critical way to ensure many years of optimal nitrogen generator performance is to regularly change the compressed air pre-filtration system filter elements. Changing the filter elements on a regular basis, typically a 8000 operating hour cycle, greatly reduces the risk of introducing compressor oil contamination into membranes or the carbon molecular sieve air separation material in a PSA type nitrogen generator.
Further to PSA systems switching valves will have to be re-built or changed at extended regular intervals. Conventional twin tower systems will typically require switching valve maintenance every 30,000 – 40,000 operating hours. Modular type nitrogen generators will likely require more frequent valve maintenance.
By changing all these components on a regular basis, you can keep your nitrogen generator operating at peak efficiency for many, many years.
Inspect the Gauges and Indicators
It is also important to inspect the gauges and indicators on the nitrogen generator on a regular basis. These components can wear or become damaged over time, which can lead to inaccurate readings. By inspecting these components regularly, you can ensure that they are in good working condition and that they accurately reflect the operating status of the nitrogen generator.
Also Read: How Nitrogen Generators Can Improve the Quality and Safety of Everyday Products
Onsite Nitrogen Generator maintenance Services at Advanced Gas Technologies
At Advanced Gas Technologies, we can provide you with the nitrogen generator that best meets your needs, whether it be a PSA or membrane type nitrogen generator. We also offer a wide range of services including maintenance consultation services and preventative maintenance contracts to ensure you keep your nitrogen generating system running at peak efficiency. Contact us today to learn more about our innovative products.