Nitrogen Generator

Table of Contents

• What is a Nitrogen Generator?
• Benefits of Nitrogen Generators
• Nitrogen Generation: PSA vs. Membrane
• Typical Applications
• Our Brands – Parker Quality
• FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Nitrogen Generator?

Nitrogen (N₂) is widely used in industrial processes—primarily as an inert gas for blanketing and explosion prevention. A nitrogen generator enables the on-site production of nitrogen—safely, reliably, and cost-effectively—without relying on high-pressure cylinders or bulk deliveries.

Benefits of Nitrogen Generators

• Eliminates cylinder handling, transport, and rental costs
• Improved safety—no need for high-pressure storage
• Immediate ROI through self-supply
• Consistent purity and uninterrupted availability
• Minimized downtime with on-demand generation
• Compact, modular systems for flexible integration
• Low operating costs and high system reliability

Nitrogen Generation: PSA vs. Membrane

There are two primary technologies for nitrogen separation from ambient air:

Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA)

PSA systems use Carbon Molecular Sieve (CMS) to separate nitrogen from oxygen in compressed air:

• Clean compressed air passes through a CMS bed
• O₂ molecules are adsorbed; N₂ passes through
• Once saturated, flow switches to a second tank for regeneration

CMS differs from conventional activated carbon due to ultra-fine pores that selectively retain oxygen, allowing larger nitrogen molecules to pass.

Membrane Nitrogen Generation

Membrane systems use hollow fiber polymers to separate gases based on molecular diffusion rates:

• Fast gases like oxygen permeate through the membrane wall
• Slower nitrogen molecules stay in the fiber core
• Oxygen-rich gas (permeate) is vented; nitrogen is collected

The membrane bundle is epoxy-sealed and protected by a housing, directing flow from inlet to outlet safely and efficiently.

Comparison Table

Typical Applications

• Food industry (MAP packaging, storage)
• Pharmaceutical and biotech manufacturing
• Chemical processing and reactor blanketing
• Laser cutting and metal fabrication
• Inerting and fire suppression systems
• Research laboratories and medical technology

Our Brands – Parker Quality

WICOM is an authorized distributor of Parker nitrogen generators—renowned for precision and durability. Former brands Balston, Whatman, and Domnick Hunter are now under Parker’s umbrella, offering:

• Proven technology with strict quality standards
• Global spare parts availability and support
• Modular designs for tailored nitrogen supply

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What purity do I need?

Depends on your application. Laser, electronics, and pharma usually require >99.9% (PSA). Food or packaging often works with 95–98% (Membrane).

What are the operating costs?

Significantly lower than delivered gas. Most systems pay for themselves within 1–2 years depending on usage volume.

Are nitrogen generators maintenance-intensive?

No. Membrane systems are virtually maintenance-free. PSA units need routine filter changes and CMS checks, typically once a year.

Can I expand the system later?

Yes. Both PSA and membrane systems are modular and can grow with your production needs.

What happens during a power or air outage?

The generator pauses safely and restarts automatically. Optional safety valves and buffer tanks are available for critical systems.