While nitrogen is commonly purchased from external suppliers, more and more companies are investing in containerized self-sufficient nitrogen units. This shift offers multiple advantages—especially in terms of cost-efficiency and energy optimization.

Containerized compressor room with nitrogen generator

These systems are designed to produce nitrogen on-site, eliminating the need to rely on external supply chains. This approach not only avoids transportation and storage costs but also ensures uninterrupted availability. Most systems are based on Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) technology, which enables fast and efficient nitrogen separation from ambient air.

Key benefits of on-site nitrogen generation

1. Significant long-term savings
The most obvious benefit is the reduction in costs associated with purchasing and transporting nitrogen. Companies relying on external suppliers often pay high prices for gas delivery. With on-site generation, these expenses are dramatically reduced.

2. High flexibility and adaptability
These systems allow users to tailor nitrogen production to real-time demand, reducing waste and minimizing the risk of surplus gas. Additionally, when storing nitrogen, thermal expansion can cause gas to escape through safety valves—on-site generation helps avoid such losses.

3. Improved energy efficiency
Modern containerized units are designed to optimize energy consumption, often including heat recovery systems that reuse waste heat generated during operation. This further reduces energy costs.

4. Environmental Benefits
Producing nitrogen on-site minimizes transportation needs and storage requirements, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions and a reduced risk of environmental incidents.

Technological Advancements

Recent developments in PSA technology have made nitrogen generation systems more reliable, low-maintenance, and long-lasting. With advanced sensors, smart controllers and automation, companies can monitor nitrogen consumption, energy usage, and system status in real-time—enabling even greater efficiency and cost control.

Case study – food industry application

A food production company required large volumes of nitrogen for inerting and cooling processes. Until recently, they depended on an external supplier, which meant high costs for transportation, storage, and delivery. During peak periods, the demand drove costs even higher.

Implementation of on-site PSA system 

Following a detailed cost and needs analysis, the company decided to invest in a containerized PSA unit. The installation included compressors, filtration systems, and a PSA generator to extract nitrogen directly from the air and store it for immediate use.

Schematic of containerized PSA nitrogen generation system

Results

• Reduced supply costs
After implementing the PSA unit, monthly costs dropped approximately 70% — the only remaining cost was energy consumption.

• Eliminated storage and transport costs
The company no longer needed to store large nitrogen reserves in tanks, eliminating storage and safety-related expenses. Nitrogen production is now fully aligned with demand.

• Flexibility and real-time optimization
The on-site system provides real-time adaptability to production demands, which is crucial in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

• Energy efficiency
The installed system includes heat recovery and energy-efficient components, reducing overall power consumption and contributing to additional savings.

Savings

Company used aproximately 2.530.000 kg of nitrogen per year.
Cost savings were achieved by cutting costs related to purchasing, transport, and storage of nitrogen, as well as through energy optimization. The initial investment was recovered within the first year, allowing the company to enjoy long-term financial and operational benefits.

Conclusion

This case clearly illustrates how investing in containerized nitrogen generation units can lead to substantial financial savings, greater flexibility, and improved energy efficiency. Companies also reduce their dependence on external suppliers and gain reliable on-demand access to nitrogen for their production processes.

Nitrogen self-sufficiency systems are a cost-effective and efficient solution for businesses looking to optimize gas supply. With lower transport costs, better energy efficiency, and enhanced adaptability, companies can not only save money but also minimize their environmental impact.

PSA technology is increasingly becoming a key tool for cost reduction and sustainable industrial growth. For companies considering nitrogen self-sufficiency, this is a long-term investment that delivers financial, operational, and environmental value.