6
The environment surrounding the nitrogen generator should also be adequately ventilated. The
generator creates a 30% to 40% oxygen permeate stream which may pose a flammability
problem in an oxygen sensitive environment.
Figure 4: Recommended Installation
3.4
Utilities
Compressed Air
- The Parker Balston Nitrogen Generator requires a source of compressed air
which is at room temperature and relatively free of water, compressor oil, hydrocarbons, and
particulate matter. An oil content <0.01 mg/m3 is recommended. The dewpoint of the incoming
air is recommended to be less than or equal to 40°F (5°C) at 120 psi. The compressed air
should be as close to instrument quality as possible and regulated to a pressure between 80
psig and 120 psig (5.5 barg and 8.3 barg), depending on downstream flow and purity desired. If
the incoming air pressure is greater than 120 psig (8.3 barg), the membrane modules may be
damaged.
DO NOT OPERATE THE NITROGEN GENERATOR WITHOUT THE FRONT SHEET METAL
FILTER ACCESS PANEL SECURED IN PLACE.
Note:
The piping and fittings on the inlet air delivery system should be at least the same size as
the inlet port on the generator. This will help ensure an adequate supply of air to the generator.
Drain Lines -
The 1/4" plastic drain lines from the first two stages of pre-filtration (see figure 1)
should be piped away to an appropriate disposal container. The liquid in this drainage will
consist primarily of water and compressor oil and should be disposed of properly
.
3.5
Installation with a Receiver Tank
In many applications, the process flow requirement for nitrogen fluctuates with time. A receiver
tank can be installed between the nitrogen generator and the process to accommodate
fluctuations in nitrogen demand and maintain nitrogen purity.
If a receiver tank is to be used, a back pressure regulator and a check valve should be installed
between the Parker Balston Nitrogen Generator and the receiver tank (see figure 5). The
Balston
72-460-V883 Back Pressure Controller
contains both of these components and may be
ordered as an accessory for the Nitrogen Generator. The adjustable back pressure regulator,
when set to the appropriate pressure, will maintain a constant pressure drop across the flow
control valve. By controlling the pressure drop across the flow control valve, the nitrogen flow
and purity will be kept constant. The check valve, when installed properly, will prevent any back-
flow of nitrogen from the receiver, providing a more effective means of storing the nitrogen.
