Background

When the internationally renowned school of chemistry within the University of Edinburgh began to encounter several issues with their nitrogen supply, the decision was made to put out a request for tenders for a nitrogen gas generation system. The new system would need to be capable of supplying nitrogen gas in a safe and efficient manner to the school’s two main buildings.  A crucial element of this requirement was the school’s need for a consistent and uninterrupted supply of nitrogen gas that would be available on-demand 24/7.

Project

After extensive deliberations, Peak Gas Generation finally won the tender to provide the new nitrogen gas generation system installation. The package was designed to include the nitrogen gas generator and all ancillary equipment, including air compressor, air dryers, filtration packs and all necessary pipe work.  In line with the school’s demand specifications, Peak also incorporated the fitting of an automatically operated change-over switch, thus enabling the capability to instantaneously switch over to a back-up liquid nitrogen tower, during periods of routine of routine maintenance and service.  Furthermore, as an additional feature Peak installed a digital flow meter, which would allow technical staff to view the generator performance at a glance.

Solution

Initially tender specifications required the nitrogen gas supply to deliver 500 L/min at 7 bar (g) with a maximum of 20 ppm oxygen.  The final Peak solution met these requirements comfortably and surpassed expectations by achieving the required flow rate at 5 ppm oxygen.  Also, whilst the severe Scottish winter weather threatened to delay the project, Peak was able to maintain its commitment to Edinburgh University, ensuring the project was completed as promised, on schedule.

When asked of his experience of working with Peak, Phil McDonald, Technical Service Manager for the school of chemistry at Edinburgh university, had the following to say:

“Both the academic and research staff are a great deal happier knowing their work flow will not be interrupted by gas supply issues anymore. I am now able to concentrate on other projects with peace of mind and confidence in the system.  It is also great to know I can speak to someone within Peak, if I require advice or assistance.”