On-Site Nitrogen Generation for Industrial Applications
On-site nitrogen generation provides a continuous, controlled and cost-effective supply of nitrogen for industrial processes and safety systems.
Over 45 Years in Operation
1000's of UK Installations
Supporting 100's of UK Sites
Introduction
Nitrogen is widely used across industrial processes for inerting, blanketing, purging and safety applications. Traditionally, this has been supplied via cylinders or bulk deliveries, requiring storage, handling and ongoing logistics.
On-site nitrogen generation offers a more efficient alternative, producing nitrogen directly from compressed air using PSA or VSA technology. This provides a continuous and reliable supply without the need for deliveries, reducing operational complexity and cost.
From offshore oil platforms to chemical plants and manufacturing facilities, on-site nitrogen systems are increasingly used to improve reliability, safety and efficiency.
The Problem
Reliance on delivered nitrogen presents several operational and logistical challenges, particularly in remote or critical applications.
Common issues include:
- High cost of cylinder or bulk nitrogen supply
- Logistics challenges, especially offshore or remote locations
- Storage and handling requirements for pressurised gas
- Risk of supply interruption affecting operations
- Lack of control over nitrogen availability and usage
- Safety considerations around transport and storage
In applications such as offshore platforms, nitrogen must often be transported by helicopter or vessel, adding significant cost and complexity.
The Solution
On-site nitrogen generation systems produce nitrogen directly from compressed air, eliminating the need for external supply.
Using Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) or Vacuum Swing Adsorption (VSA) technology, these systems separate nitrogen from air, delivering a continuous supply tailored to the required purity and flow rate.
These systems are often used alongside applications such as Nitrogen Blanketing, where reliable nitrogen supply is essential for safe operation, and can integrate with wider process control strategies including Atmospheric Vent Gas Monitoring to support safe and compliant plant operation.
On-site generation provides independence, improved control and long-term cost savings, particularly in high-usage or remote environments.
Technical Insight
On-site nitrogen generation systems are designed to deliver consistent performance across a wide range of industrial applications.
PSA vs VSA technology
- PSA systems are typically used for smaller to medium flow rates and provide flexible, modular solutions
- VSA systems are more suitable for larger flow applications with improved energy efficiency
Nitrogen purity control
Systems can be configured to deliver nitrogen at different purity levels depending on application requirements, balancing performance and energy consumption.
Integration with compressed air systems
Nitrogen generators utilise existing compressed air infrastructure, requiring appropriate air quality (dry, filtered air) to ensure reliable operation.
Continuous supply
Unlike cylinders, on-site systems provide a constant nitrogen supply, removing the risk of running out during critical operations.
Installation considerations
Systems can be skid-mounted or containerised, making them suitable for both onshore and offshore installations.
Recommended Products
PSA Oxygen Generators
Used in reverse for nitrogen separation processes, providing modular and flexible on-site gas generation solutions.
VSA Oxygen Generators
Suitable for larger-scale applications requiring high flow rates and improved energy efficiency.
View our Oxygen / Nitrogen Generation Systems
Key Benefits
- Eliminates reliance on delivered nitrogen
- Reduces operating costs and logistics requirements
- Provides continuous and reliable nitrogen supply
- Improves safety by removing cylinder handling and storage
- Suitable for remote and offshore installations
- Flexible systems tailored to application requirements
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On-Site Nitrogen Generation FAQs
Explore common questions about nitrogen generation, including how systems work, where they are used and how to select the right solution.
What is on-site nitrogen generation?
On-site nitrogen generation is the process of producing nitrogen gas directly at the point of use, typically using PSA or VSA technology to separate nitrogen from compressed air. This removes the need for delivered nitrogen cylinders or bulk storage.
Why use on-site nitrogen generation instead of cylinders?
From experience, the biggest advantage is control. Operators are no longer dependent on deliveries, which reduces cost, eliminates supply risk and simplifies operations, particularly in remote or offshore environments.
Where is on-site nitrogen generation used?
Common applications include inerting, blanketing, purging, pipeline protection and safety systems across oil & gas, chemical, pharmaceutical and manufacturing industries.
What purity levels can be achieved?
Nitrogen generators can be configured to deliver a range of purity levels depending on application requirements. Higher purity typically requires more energy, so systems are selected based on the specific process needs.
Is on-site nitrogen generation suitable for offshore use?
Yes. These systems are widely used on offshore platforms where transporting nitrogen cylinders is costly and logistically challenging. On-site generation provides a safer and more reliable alternative.
How do I choose between PSA and VSA systems?
The choice depends on flow rate, purity requirements and energy considerations. PSA systems are typically used for smaller applications, while VSA systems are more suited to larger-scale, continuous demand.
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