The choice between a fixed nitrogen installation and mobile nitrogen treatment depends on your project duration, capacity requirements, and operational flexibility. Fixed installations are ideal for long-term projects with continuous nitrogen needs, while mobile solutions are suitable for temporary projects, emergencies, and flexible applications where location independence is important.
What is the difference between fixed installation and mobile nitrogen treatment?
The main difference lies in the permanence and flexibility of both systems. A fixed nitrogen installation is permanently installed at one location and continuously produces nitrogen via Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) technology. These systems filter oxygen from compressed air by binding oxygen molecules to a molecular carbon sieve.
Fixed nitrogen generators operate with a stable compression system that connects to a compressed air source. The outlet connects directly to your facility’s nitrogen network. These systems can achieve purity levels from 95% to 99.9999%, depending on your specific application requirements.
Mobile nitrogen treatment, on the other hand, offers complete location independence. These systems are designed for transport and can be quickly deployed where needed. They produce nitrogen on-site, making you independent of external suppliers or fixed infrastructure.
Which factors determine the choice for fixed or mobile nitrogen treatment?
The nitrogen generator choice is determined by five important factors that you must carefully consider for your specific project.
Project duration plays a decisive role. Long-term projects of more than two years make fixed installations economically more attractive due to lower operational costs per cubic meter of nitrogen. Shorter projects benefit from the flexibility of mobile solutions.
Capacity requirements determine system size. Fixed installations can easily be scaled for large volumes, while mobile systems are better suited for small to medium capacities. The required purity level also influences your choice, as both systems can deliver different purity levels.
Location-specific circumstances such as accessibility, available space, and infrastructure are determining factors. Hard-to-reach locations or temporary work sites require mobile solutions, while permanent facilities are better suited for fixed installations.
Budget and financial considerations include both initial investment costs and operational expenses. Operational flexibility determines whether you regularly change locations or perform seasonal work.
When is a fixed nitrogen installation the best option?
Fixed nitrogen installations are the best choice for geothermal nitrogen treatment and other long-term projects with continuous nitrogen needs. These systems offer superior cost efficiency with permanent use.
Geothermal projects benefit from fixed installations due to their continuous operational requirements. The piping in geothermal systems requires constant protection against corrosion, making a stable nitrogen supply necessary.
Industrial applications such as greenhouse horticulture, breweries, and data centers benefit from fixed systems. These sectors require reliable, continuous nitrogen production for processes such as preservation, quality maintenance, and fire prevention.
Facilities with high purity requirements, such as laboratories and food production, benefit from the stable output of fixed installations. These systems can be modularly expanded and offer redundancy through multiple units that can be controlled separately.
Locations with existing compressed air infrastructure make fixed installations extra attractive, as they can be easily integrated into existing systems.
In which situations do you better choose mobile nitrogen treatment?
Mobile nitrogen treatment is ideal for geothermal nitrogen projects in the development phase and other temporary applications where flexibility is paramount.
Emergencies and urgent projects require rapid deployment that only mobile systems can provide. These solutions can be operational within hours without extensive installation or connection work.
Projects at multiple locations benefit from the transportability of mobile systems. Contractors working at different construction sites can use one system for multiple projects.
Seasonal work, such as biological pest control in agriculture, makes optimal use of mobile nitrogen generators. These systems can be deployed when needed and stored during inactive periods.
Test phases and pilot projects require flexibility to try different configurations and locations before final investment decisions are made.
How do you calculate the costs of fixed versus mobile nitrogen solutions?
A thorough nitrogen installation cost analysis includes all financial aspects over the complete project lifespan to make an informed decision.
Purchase costs form the largest initial investment for fixed installations. These costs include the system itself, installation, connection to existing infrastructure, and any structural modifications. Mobile systems have lower purchase costs but higher rental costs with long-term use.
Operational costs include energy consumption, maintenance, and personnel costs. Fixed installations generally have lower operational costs per cubic meter of nitrogen due to more efficient processes and optimized energy utilization.
| Cost Item | Fixed Installation | Mobile Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Investment | High | Low to Medium |
| Operational Costs | Low | Medium to High |
| Maintenance Costs | Predictable | Variable |
| Flexibility Costs | High | Low |
Maintenance costs are more predictable with fixed installations due to scheduled service intervals and stable operating conditions. Mobile systems may have higher maintenance costs due to transport and changing operating conditions.
Total cost of ownership (TCO) over the project lifespan provides the most accurate picture. Calculate all costs over the expected usage period, including residual values and possible expansion opportunities.
At Presscon, we help you with a detailed cost analysis for your specific situation. Our experience with both fixed and mobile nitrogen solutions enables us to advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your project. We offer customized solutions that perfectly match your operational requirements and budgetary frameworks. Contact our nitrogen experts for personalized guidance.