Nitrogen gas from compressed air

Extracting N₂ from the air you already use

A diverse range of applications companies rely on nitrogen gas to keep their processes clean, dry and precise. Traditionally, gas is purchased in bottles or cylinders that are delivered to site. But many companies are now choosing to produce their own N₂ from their existing compressed air system.

Nitrogen generators extract N₂ from a compressed air supply by removing oxygen and trace gasses from the air and concentrating nitrogen to a desired purity. Producing nitrogen gas in-house is a simple process with several significant benefits.

The benefits to your business

Cost reduction

Using your own supply of N₂ can cost up to 80% less than ordering bottled nitrogen and having it delivered. Typical payback time is just 18-24 months. Furthermore, in-house N² is not subject to supply and cost volatility.

Efficiency

The last 10-15% of the nitrogen in a bottle is essentially unusable, as it is not possible to withdraw it. Therefore, cylinders are returned with gas still within them, wasting both money and nitrogen. Producing N2 in-house also eliminates the cost and environmental impact of regular deliveries to site.

Safety

Reduces the risk of manual-handling accidents caused by moving heavy cylinders. Nitrogen produced by a generator is supplied at low pressure making it considerably safer than storing high-pressure N² cylinders. A leak from one of these bottles can cause serious injury and even asphyxiation. 

Purity

Able to consistently produce nitrogen purity levels of 99.99%, avoiding the purity drop-off of cylinders and bottles as they reach the lower end of their capacity. Purity is controlled at source so can be set to the specific needs of each application.

Reliability

On-demand supply with no costly or potentially damaging interruptions – vital for some processes where a change in purity levels or drop in supply can significantly affect the integrity of the end product or where projects are time-sensitive.

Convenience

No need for scheduling deliveries and collections. Also avoids the possibility of delays caused by changing over bottles or running out of supply.

Whether you are looking to reduce costs or refine your process, installing a nitrogen generator within your compressed air system is an innovative and effective solution. 

And if you have a Carbon Reduction Plan in place, producing your own supply of nitrogen will make a significant impact on your Scope 2 objectives.

To find out more about how a nitrogen generator can help your business, contact BCAS.