Atlas Copco Compressor Technique’s cost effective Membrane Nitrogen Generator (NGM) uses membrane air separation to produce pure nitrogen which is ideally suited to tyre inflation and can realise substantial savings for vehicle and commercial fleet operators. “The temperature of nitrogen in tyres remains lower compared to air inflated tyres; lower temperatures keep tyre pressures more constant and reduce tyre wear and tear,” according to Charl Ackerman, Atlas Copco South Africa Business Line Manager - Industrial Air Division. In addition to tyre inflation, Ackerman points out that the high flow capacity and cool running temperature of nitrogen also makes this technology ideal for many other applications including fire prevention, oil and gas, marine, packaging, to name but a few. Ackerman explains how membrane technology works: “The membrane, which consists of a bundle of hollow fibres with a polymeric structure, allows nitrogen to pass and other gases such as oxygen, water vapour and Carbon Dioxide to permeate; nitrogen exits at the outlet.”

The NGM generates nitrogen with purities of between 95 and 99.5% and flows up to 500 Nm3/h. “The optimum flexibility of the system makes it ideal for a wide range of applications and the system’s modular design is aimed at adapting to the customer’s environment.” Ackerman adds that the NGM will efficiently meet all nitrogen volume requirements, whether small, medium or large, with equal efficiency.

Discussing the numerous factors that render this system extremely convenient and cost effective, Ackerman says that “firstly, system is ready to use as it only requires a supply of dry compressed air and secondly the system requires no specialist installation or commissioning. Thirdly, the generator is fitted with pre-filtration, pressure gauges and flow meters to ensure accurate system monitoring at all times. Operating and maintenance expenses are low and there are no additional costs such as order processing, refills and delivery charges. Customers conveniently have an unlimited and continuous supply of nitrogen on tap which eliminates the risk of production breakdown due to gas shortages.” Uptime, maximum performance and productivity are the mainstay for any business to remain competitive. Vehicle and commercial fleet operators, as well as any other industries that need nitrogen will benefit from the cost effective and efficient Membrane Nitrogen Generator which delivers low input and operating costs, a reliable continuous nitrogen supply and reduced downtime for a sustainable and more profitable business,” concludes Ackerman.