Nitrogen generators are systems that can produce nitrogen gas from ambient air. The ambient air we breathe is composed of 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen and 1% trace gas, primarily argon. A supply of compressed air is introduced into a nitrogen generator and, in effect, the oxygen in ambient air is filtered out of the compressed air stream leaving a supply of nitrogen gas for process uses. The nitrogen gas can be used right away or compressed into high pressure storage cylinders for future use. Nitrogen generators can be used in a variety of industrial applications including food and beverage processing, electronics manufacturing, and metal manufacturing. Nitrogen generators are not only very cost effective, but they are also environmentally friendly.
The Impact of Producing and Using Nitrogen Gas
One way businesses can become greener is by investing in on-site nitrogen gas generating systems. It lowers a business’s carbon footprint by eliminating the need to transport nitrogen gas or liquid nitrogen, thus reducing emissions associated with transportation.
Onsite gas generating systems also reduce energy requirements associated with handling of nitrogen gas cylinders. It also reduces potential interruptions associated with missed deliveries of conventional nitrogen supply, all of which contribute to greater process efficiency and higher output.
Nitrogen generating systems operate and generate nitrogen based only on demand and as required. This eliminates wasteful nitrogen evaporation losses associated with liquid nitrogen supply or gas wastage associated with having a residual volume of nitrogen left unused in nitrogen gas cylinders. The cost of purchasing and transporting nitrogen can be eliminated and supply reliability is improved by installing a nitrogen system on site.
Industries That Benefit Most from Nitrogen Gas Generating Systems
Nitrogen, being an inert gas, is an essential requirement for many industrial applications and industries including:
Chemical Manufacturing
Nitrogen gas is used in chemical manufacturing to create an inert atmosphere that prevents oxidation and minimizes other chemical reactions such as accidental ignition of volatile flammable materials.
Food Processing
Nitrogen gas is widely used in food packaging to enhance the shelf life of many packaged foods through a process called modified atmosphere packaging (MAP). The shelf life of perishable food items can be increased up to 10 fold by utilizing MAP.
Mining
If you work in the mining industry, you are well aware of the devastating effects explosions can have. Mining industries benefit greatly from onsite nitrogen gas generation systems, particularly for preventing explosions in mined out sections of coal mines s and extinguishing fires in all underground mines.
Alcoholic Beverage Manufacturing
Nitrogen gas is used in the production of alcoholic beverages to carbonate and to remove oxygen from tanks and barrels during fermentation and storage to prevent spoilage. This helps in producing high-quality wines with great flavor and aroma.
Electronics Manufacturing
Nitrogen gas is widely used in electronics manufacturing in wave soldering and selective soldering processes as well as in re-flow oven processes.
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
The use of nitrogen gas in the pharmaceutical industry is extensive. It is used to prevent product spoilage and maintain product integrity by storing the product in a sterile, dry, inert atmosphere.
How Can Nitrogen Generators Help Your Organization Be Environmentally Friendly?
Reduces Energy Consumption
Onsite nitrogen generators produce nitrogen using energy-efficient processes. It reduces reliance on bottled nitrogen or liquid nitrogen production which require a significant amount of energy and resources and emits large amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere.
Eliminates Transportation/Delivery Trucks
By using onsite nitrogen generating systems, you can produce nitrogen gas whenever you need it. It will eliminate the need for regular deliveries of nitrogen gas cylinders or liquid nitrogen therefore reducing the number of transportation trucks on the road. This not only helps to lower carbon emissions but also reduces the risk of transportation accidents.
Cuts Down on Product Waste
Nitrogen generators produce only the amount of nitrogen required, reducing the possibility of wasted gas. This can result in significant cost savings as well as resource conservation. It also eliminates the need for cylinders, resulting in less waste and lower disposal costs.
Removes Preservatives in Food Packaging
Nitrogen generators can be used in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) which can extend the shelf life of food products without the need for preservatives. This can help to reduce the use of chemicals and improve the quality of the food products.
Also Read: A Nitrogen Generator Troubleshooting Guide for Smooth Industrial Operations
Contribute to a Healthier Environment by Investing in a Nitrogen Generator
Contact Advanced Gas Technologies for your nitrogen gas generator needs and take advantage the tremendous cost savings our technically advanced industrial nitrogen generators can provide. Our expert team will assist you in finding the perfect solution for a greener future.