How to Choose the Right Laboratory Gas Generator for Your Application

Laboratory gas generators provide a convenient and reliable source of gases required for analytical and laboratory applications. Nitrogen and hydrogen gas generators are commonly used where laboratories need a consistent gas supply for their instruments and processes. However, selecting the right laboratory gas generator requires more than simply choosing the required gas. Factors such as purity, flow rate, application requirements, capacity, safety and maintenance should all be considered.

For laboratories investing in new analytical equipment or looking to improve their existing gas supply, understanding these factors can help ensure the selected generator meets both current and future requirements.

What Is a Laboratory Gas Generator?

A laboratory gas generator is equipment designed to produce a specific gas on-site for use in laboratory or analytical applications. Depending on the system, generators can provide gases such as nitrogen or hydrogen without requiring laboratories to depend entirely on conventional gas-cylinder supplies.

The appropriate generator depends on the application, the analytical instrument being supplied and the required gas specifications.

With over 35 years of experience, Prama Instruments provides laboratory instruments, analytical solutions and customized technical solutions for laboratories and industrial applications. Learn more about our experience, capabilities and approach on our About Us page.

Types of Laboratory Gas Generators

Different laboratory applications require different gases. Two commonly required options are nitrogen and hydrogen gas generators.

Nitrogen Gas Generators

Nitrogen generators are designed to provide a continuous supply of nitrogen for applications that require controlled and dependable gas delivery. They can be particularly useful in analytical laboratory environments where nitrogen is required regularly.

When selecting a nitrogen generator, laboratories should consider the required nitrogen purity, flow rate and operating requirements of the connected equipment.

Hydrogen Gas Generators

Hydrogen generators produce hydrogen on demand for laboratory and analytical applications. They can be considered where a reliable hydrogen supply is required and where the laboratory wants to reduce dependence on stored gas cylinders.

The generator should be selected according to the hydrogen requirements of the specific instrument or application.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Laboratory Gas Generator

Choosing a laboratory gas generator should begin with a clear understanding of the laboratory’s requirements.

1. Gas Purity

Gas purity is an important consideration for analytical applications. The required purity level depends on the instrument and application. Before selecting a generator, check the equipment manufacturer’s gas specifications and ensure the generator can meet those requirements.

2. Flow Rate

The generator must be capable of providing the required gas flow consistently. Selecting a generator with insufficient capacity can affect equipment operation, while significantly over-sizing the system may increase unnecessary costs.

3. Application Requirements

Different laboratory instruments have different gas requirements. Consider how the gas will be used, which instruments will be connected and whether the generator will operate continuously or intermittently.

4. Capacity and Future Requirements

Laboratories should consider both their current and potential future gas requirements. If additional analytical instruments may be added later, selecting a system with appropriate capacity can help accommodate future demand.

5. Maintenance Requirements

Maintenance requirements should also be considered when comparing laboratory gas generators. A system that is straightforward to operate and maintain can help laboratories manage routine operations more efficiently.

6. Safety

Safety should always be considered when selecting and installing gas generation equipment. The laboratory should evaluate the operating requirements, installation conditions and safety features of the selected generator.

Laboratory Gas Generators vs. Gas Cylinders

Gas cylinders remain useful for many laboratory applications, but laboratories with regular gas requirements may also consider on-site generation.

A laboratory gas generator can provide gas at the point of use and may reduce the need for frequent cylinder replacement and storage. The right choice ultimately depends on the laboratory’s application, consumption, infrastructure and operational requirements.

Where Are Laboratory Gas Generators Used?

Laboratory gas generators can support a variety of analytical and laboratory environments.

Common applications may include:

• Pharmaceutical laboratories
• Chemical laboratories
• Research laboratories
• Quality control laboratories
• Analytical testing laboratories
• Industrial laboratories

The specific gas and generator requirements will vary depending on the instruments and processes involved.

How to Select the Right Generator for Your Laboratory

Before purchasing a laboratory gas generator, create a basic requirement checklist:

Identify the Required Gas

Determine whether the application requires nitrogen, hydrogen or another specific gas.

Check Instrument Specifications

Review the connected instrument manufacturer’s requirements for purity, pressure and flow.

Estimate Gas Consumption

Understand the laboratory’s current gas consumption and consider whether additional instruments may be connected in the future.

Evaluate Installation Requirements

Consider available laboratory space, utilities, ventilation and other installation requirements.

Discuss Technical Requirements

For specialized analytical applications, discussing the requirements with an experienced laboratory equipment supplier can help identify a suitable solution.

Laboratory Gas Generator Solutions from Prama Instruments

Prama Instruments provides laboratory and analytical solutions for laboratories and industrial applications, including gas generation solutions such as nitrogen and hydrogen gas generators. With technical expertise across laboratory instruments, analytical solutions and instrumentation requirements, Prama Instruments can assist customers in identifying solutions suited to their specific applications.

If you are looking for a laboratory gas generator for your analytical or laboratory requirements, contact Prama Instruments to discuss your application and equipment requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a laboratory gas generator?

A laboratory gas generator is equipment that produces gases on-site for laboratory and analytical applications, providing a controlled supply for compatible instruments and processes.

Why use a nitrogen gas generator in a laboratory?

A nitrogen gas generator can provide a continuous on-site nitrogen supply for applications that regularly require nitrogen, reducing reliance on conventional gas-cylinder supply.

What should I consider when buying a laboratory gas generator?

Consider gas type, purity, flow rate, pressure, application requirements, capacity, installation requirements, maintenance and safety.

Can laboratory gas generators be used for analytical instruments?

Yes, gas generators can be used with analytical instruments when the generator’s specifications meet the requirements of the particular instrument and application.

Does Prama Instruments provide laboratory gas generators?

Prama Instruments offers laboratory gas generation solutions, including nitrogen and hydrogen gas generators, for analytical and laboratory applications.