Nitrogen generators are used in a wide range of industries to offer a steady supply of 99.5% pure, commercially sterile nitrogen from a compressed air storage tank. Nitrogen generators, for any industrial process, are considered more suitable over nitrogen cylinders as on-site plants are more compact, reliable, easy to use and install. However, using these generators do not come without any risk.
In this blog, we will tell you about the industries that install generators and safety measures you must keep in mind when you are using nitrogen generators at your premises.
Where are nitrogen generators installed?
Nitrogen generators are used in a range of industries as they help the manufacturer meet the end-use and can be easily installed in different commercial environments. These generators are used in industry like food processing and packaging for the food packaging process, in automotive plants to paint booths, in brewing operations to sparge and mix the wort, in engineering facilities N2 is used in manufacturing, testing, and product development, and in some other industries, it is used to test and clean tanks and vessels.
On-site nitrogen generators provide an uninterrupted supply of nitrogen at a lower cost than using nitrogen cylinders. It also takes less space, unlike cylinders that take all floor space. Generators are easy to install and simple to use,unlike cylinders. Therefore, many manufacturers have chosen gas generators instead of cylinders.
Nitrogen is an odorless and colorless gas that produces an oxygen-deficient area. If the generator leaks the gas, it is difficult for the people to detect. In a short time, the leaking nitrogen can deplete the oxygen of the work space creating a harmful effect on the health of the employees. However, one can use an oxygen monitor with the nitrogen generator that will alert the staff about the low level of oxygen.
Nitrogen Generator usage Safety measures
1. Leaks- During installation and service periods, ensure that pressure vessels, pipe-works, connections and equipment of the system are completely gas-tight.
2. Safety Valves- In some situations, safety valves are fitted to the pressure vessels and to an outside location. The threaded outlet makes it easier to attach pipe work to facilitate this.
3. Adequate ventilation- Make certain that there is adequate ventilation and there is a well-placed vessel vent flow to make sure that no oxygen depletion occurs. Or, you can also fix a suitable hose of the correct pressure rating to the vessel drain connection and vent to a safe place.
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4. Labeling and warning Warning labels must be applied in eminent areas on equipment, vessels, pipe-work and plant rooms to inform the workforce about the presence of nitrogen gas. This should be done on all equipment, vessel, and pipe-work so it is clearly readable from all the directions. Hence, the personnel can eliminate the risk of connecting contaminated or potentially harmful items.
MVS Engineering Pvt. Ltd. has substantial experience and knowledge evolved over the past 43 years of successfully developing, delivering and installing nitrogen generators globally. If there are any concerns or questions regarding on-site gas plants, we can provide help and advise you with everything. Send us your questions via enquiry form, and we will get back to you soon.