Relying on third-party suppliers for nitrogen in beer brewing can become both unreliable and costly over time. Vendors deliver bottled nitrogen, which is generated by cryogenic plants and transported under high pressure.
This method involves ongoing challenges such as managing orders, handling storage and replacement logistics, and dealing with frequent paperwork. Additionally, the dependence on external suppliers means losing control over the cost and quality of nitrogen, potentially impacting the brewing process and efficiency.
In contrast, onsite nitrogen generation provides a more cost-effective and controlled solution. By producing nitrogen directly from ambient air, breweries can avoid the complications associated with external supply chains.
This approach not only reduces operational costs but also enhances safety by eliminating the need for high-pressure cylinders. It allows for precise control over nitrogen purity levels, tailored to the specific needs of the brewery.
The technology
The technology behind onsite nitrogen generation involves sophisticated methods that deliver high-purity nitrogen efficiently. Membrane technology utilises a membrane nitrogen generator, where compressed air is passed through a membrane filled with hollow fibres.
This process allows oxygen and water vapour to escape through the fibres, leaving behind a concentrated stream of nitrogen. This method is effective for producing high-purity nitrogen with a relatively simple setup.
Another prevalent method is pressure swing adsorption (PSA). This technology separates nitrogen from oxygen by using a carbon molecular sieve that adsorbs oxygen molecules from the compressed air stream.
This results in a high-purity nitrogen output. PSA systems are known for their reliability and efficiency, making them suitable for various applications, including brewing.
Onsite nitrogen generation offers several benefits. It allows for precise adjustment of nitrogen purity, ensuring that the output meets specific requirements without overpaying for excess purity. It also reduces waste by using every unit of nitrogen produced, which is particularly advantageous for breweries with varying or unpredictable nitrogen needs.
Additionally, eliminating the need for high-pressure cylinder delivery and storage enhances safety and simplifies operations. Environmental benefits include reducing transportation-related emissions, as the nitrogen is generated locally.
Onsite solution
Atlas Copco’s NGPs 2-9 is an example of a versatile onsite nitrogen solution. Suitable for both low and high-demand applications, this PSA generator delivers up to 99.999% purity. It features an extruded adsorber design, ensuring compactness, reliability, and an extended lifespan.
The system is easy to set up with a plug-and-play design, and it includes an Economiser to prevent air and energy waste.
For more demanding needs, the NGPs 2-9 offers advanced features such as a touch screen for remote monitoring, real-time purity and pressure checks, and sensors to monitor feed air quality and nitrogen moisture levels, ensuring optimal performance and reliability in beer brewing operations.
Did you know that half the world’s beer is produced using equipment from Atlas Copco?
