On-Site Gas Generators The Economical Choice Versus Gas Cylinders - Industrial Gas Filtration & Generation Division | Parker US
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Discover why our generators are easy to use, safe, cost-effective and provide reliable, consistent gas quality and pressure.

Find your local specialist for lab gas generation equipment.

A History of Innovation and Reliability

Parker is the recognized leader in filtration, purification, and gas generation technology. Today, through a significant investment in research and development, Parker Lab Gas Generator products, including high-purity lab gas generators, have become the industry benchmark for quality and reliability. Moreover, all Parker lab gas generators meet NFPA 50A regulations and are the first gas generators built to meet worldwide laboratory standards: CSA, UL, and IEC 61010.

Discover why our on-site generators are easy to use, safe, cost-effective, and provide reliable, consistent gas quality and pressure.

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Parker pioneered large-scale gas separation generators in a compact profile for the lab in the 1980s that are world-renowned for their reliability, purity, and long life.


Our on-site lab gas generators are cost-effective, pay for themselves within 18 months, and reduce yearly costs versus gas cylinders by a factor of 10.


Our lab gas generators are built using Parker’s patented technologies, which are only available in our gas generators. Such as our proprietary hollow fiber nitrogen-generating membranes.


Our generators are supported by over 100 service technicians from coast to coast, a team of engineers, and the global resources of Parker Hannifin Corporation.


On-site lab gas generators produce gas purity levels that are the highest in the industry, up to seven times for our UHP hydrogen generators.


Parker’s quality and manufacturing systems are maintained to ISO 9001 quality standards and registered with the certifying company DNV Industry Inc. to ensure superior performance and long-term reliability.


All of our gas generators meet NFPA 50A regulations and are the first gas generators built to meet worldwide laboratory standards: CSA, UL, and IEC 61010.


We are the proven choice with an install base of over 50,000 units globally for leading companies, including Agilent, ThermoFisher, Waters, Shimadzu, Sciex, Perkin Elmer, and many others.

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Superior Service and Support

Get answers to our most commonly asked questions as well as contact information.

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Lab Gas Generators FAQ

Q: What is the use of an on-site lab gas generator?

Gas generators in laboratories are used to produce specific types of gases on demand, offering a convenient and safe alternative to high-pressure gas cylinders. These generators are designed to supply a continuous or on-demand flow of pure gas for various laboratory applications, including but not limited to gas chromatography (GC), liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and other analytical, synthesis, or preservation techniques. The use of gas generators can significantly enhance laboratory safety, efficiency, and productivity. 

Q: What are the advantages of using gas generators on site in your laboratory?

Gas generators are a critical component in modern laboratories, providing a reliable, safe, and efficient source of high-purity gases for a wide range of scientific applications. Generators can significantly improve laboratory operations, contributing to better experimental outcomes and a safer working environment. Key benefits include:

  • Safety: Gas generators reduce the risks associated with handling and storing high-pressure gas cylinders, such as leaks and explosions.

  • Convenience: Providing a continuous supply of gas on demand, eliminating the need to change over gas cylinders.

  • Purity: High-purity gases are generated, improving the reliability and accuracy of analytical results.

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Over time, gas generators can be more cost-effective than repeatedly purchasing high-pressure gas cylinders with delivery and rental charges.

  • Space-Saving: They occupy less space than storing multiple cylinders and eliminate the need for a dedicated gas cylinder storage area.

  • Environmental Impact: Generating gas on-site reduces the carbon footprint associated with the delivery and production of high-pressure gas cylinders.

Q: How to produce nitrogen on site?

On-site lab gas nitrogen production is a practical and cost-effective solution for many laboratories that require a steady and reliable supply of nitrogen gas. There are mainly two technologies commonly used for on-site nitrogen generation: Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) and Membrane Nitrogen Generation. Each method has its advantages and is suitable for different requirements in terms of purity, flow rate, and application. It is also important to consider operating costs and maintenance. 

Q: Are gas generators cheaper?

  • To determine if a lab gas generator is a cost-effective solution for your specific application, it's necessary to conduct a detailed cost-benefit analysis that considers the total cost of ownership over the expected life of the equipment.

    This analysis should include initial capital expenditure, operational costs, expected maintenance, and the cost savings from reduced gas deliveries and cylinder rentals. For many medium to large-scale gas users, gas generators can offer significant cost savings and operational advantages over time. There are also ancillary benefits to consider, such as: convenience, safety, environmental impact.

Q: How do I choose a lab gas generator?

  • Laboratory gas generators can supply various gases (such as nitrogen, hydrogen, and zero air) for applications ranging from gas chromatography to mass spectrometry and beyond. To ensure you select a system that meets your specific needs, delivers efficiency, and provides reliability you must consider several factors. Review the following considerations as you make your decision:

    • Determine Your Gas Requirements
      • Type of Gas: Identify the type of gas you need (e.g., nitrogen, hydrogen, zero air) based on your application. Some generators are specific to one type of gas, while others may offer multi-gas capabilities.
      • Purity Levels: Different applications require different purity levels. For instance, analytical applications like LC-MS (Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) often require higher purity gases.
      • Flow Rate: Calculate the flow rate needed for your applications, typically in liters per minute (L/min). Ensure the generator can meet your peak demand.
         
    • Consider the Gas Generator Performance
      • Consistency: You need a consistent flow at the required purity level, as fluctuations can affect experimental results.
      • Efficiency: Evaluate the energy efficiency, more efficient models can reduce long-term operational costs.
      • Noise Level: If the generator will be in a shared workspace, consider the noise level to ensure it won’t be disruptive.
         
    • Assess the Installation and Operating Requirements
      • Space: Consider the physical size of the generator and ensure you have adequate space in your lab, including any clearance needed for ventilation or maintenance.
      • Utility Requirements: Check if the generator needs special utilities (e.g., external air supply, specific electrical requirements) beyond what your lab currently provides.
      • Ease of Use: Look for user-friendly interfaces and systems that require minimal maintenance. Some generators have self-diagnostic features and remote monitoring capabilities.
         
    • Evaluate Reliability and Support
      • Warranty: Longer warranty periods can offer peace of mind and protection against early failures.
      • Service and Support: Consider the manufacturer’s reputation for customer service and technical support. Quick access to service and parts can minimize downtime.
      • Reviews and References: Look for reviews or ask for references from other labs that have used the generators you’re considering. Peer feedback can provide valuable insights into a generator’s performance and reliability in real-world conditions.
         
    • Cost Considerations
      • Initial Investment vs. Operational Costs: While some generators may have a higher initial cost, they might offer lower operational costs through higher efficiency or lower maintenance requirements.
      • Consumables and Maintenance: Consider the cost and availability of any consumables, as well as routine maintenance requirements and associated costs.
         
    • Safety Features: Especially important for hydrogen generators, ensure the system has built-in safety features such as automatic leak detection and shutdown capabilities.

    • Environmental Impact/Sustainability: Some generators are designed with sustainability in mind, offering lower energy consumption and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional gas supply methods.