One of the primary considerations when choosing nitrogen generators is the cost. This is often the most significant expense, especially if a facility needs to run a compressor. However, this cost is usually small, and over the long term, the financial benefit of nitrogen generation is the greatest advantage too. Compared to the cost of never-ending tank deliveries, the initial cost of nitrogen generation is minimal. Nitrogen Generation representatives can help you calculate the long-term cost of using nitrogen generators.
Cost of Nitrogen Generators
The cost of nitrogen generators varies depending on the equipment and location you plan to install them. You should also consider the maintenance costs, as running an air compressor can be expensive. In addition, you will need to pay for electricity and gas for the unit. Finally, it would help if you also considered how much time it will take for your nitrogen generator to pay for itself. The return on your investment will vary, but it is usually within nine to 24 months.
One of the main benefits of nitrogen generators is that they are more affordable than cylinders. The cost of cylinders is high, and many costs are associated, including delivery and admin fees. Also, cylinders are challenging to move and leak, causing your nitrogen supply to run out during a critical operation. Additionally, you will need to worry about the logistics of changing canisters and reloading cylinders, which can be time-consuming and messy.
Efficiency of Nitrogen Generators
The demand for nitrogen is increasing, driving the development of nitrogen generators. Traditional nitrogen supplies are in cylinders or liquid form and are produced at an air separation plant through an electrically intensive process known as fractional distillation. To produce nitrogen, air must be chilled below -200 deg C, and the process requires large amounts of energy. It also needs a large-scale operation to be economically viable.
Nitrogen generators can be designed to operate at different levels of efficiency. For example, CompAir nitrogen generators use pre-treated air from a standard industrial compressor. This air is treated to remove oxygen and trace gases, and only nitrogen is allowed to pass through to the application. This is not a novel concept, but modern nitrogen generators use radical PSA designs and control systems to maximize efficiency. The energy savings from nitrogen generators are so significant that they will pay for themselves in a few years.
Logistics
One of the most critical aspects of nitrogen generators is their logistics. Having nitrogen in stock is essential for critical operations. The shortage of nitrogen can lead to product damage and loss, which can result in massive costs. Additionally, storing nitrogen is costly, requiring additional floor space and fire protection. Furthermore, many businesses have rental agreements for cylinders and tanks, which increases the cost of nitrogen. Fortunately, several solutions can help you reduce your costly maintaining a constant nitrogen supply.
One of the most cost-effective methods of nitrogen generation is on-site nitrogen generation. It is much more affordable than buying nitrogen from a vendor. But membrane nitrogen generators are not without their logistical problems, so it is crucial to work with a professional team and a trucking company to ensure that all the necessary nitrogen is delivered correctly. Industrial operators may also need to install storage facilities for nitrogen to meet regulatory requirements. Additionally, the storage facility must comply with specific temperature standards, as fluctuating temperatures can cause product loss in transit.