This article applies to South-Tek Systems industrial N2-GEN TS, CS, and S series PSA nitrogen generators.
Use this article to review active alarms, view alarm history, interpret available trend data, and troubleshoot common operating issues.
Alarm screen
The Alarm screen shows active alarms currently present on the generator. From this screen, users can also access the Alarm Log to review previous alarms with the date and time they occurred.
- The Alarm Log can store up to 256 alarms.
- Pressing Reset on the Alarm Log screen clears previously stored alarm history.
Common alarm types
Depending on the options included with the generator, the touchscreen and control system may display or monitor alarms such as:
- Filter alarm
- Low nitrogen tank pressure alarm
- BlastOff alarm
- Oxygen concentration or purity alarm
- Common alarm output
Some alarm functions are optional and may depend on the features included with the package.
Trend graphs
The Graphs screen displays historical sensor data for installed instruments.
- All generators include nitrogen tank pressure trending.
- Optional trend displays may include oxygen purity, incoming air pressure, air flow, and nitrogen flow.
- The Y-axis scale can be adjusted by entering custom minimum and maximum values.
Trend data can be helpful when troubleshooting low purity, pressure instability, excessive run time, or abnormal cycling behavior.
Alarm-related settings
The generator includes configurable alarm settings through the touchscreen. Depending on the unit configuration, these may include purity alarm settings, low tank pressure alarm settings, local buzzer control, and optional BlastOff or PurityProtect settings.
Important: Factory performance settings should not be changed without guidance from South-Tek Systems.
PurityProtect (optional)
If the unit includes PurityProtect, the system can be configured to remain in purge mode until the nitrogen is back in specification for the programmed delay period. This helps prevent out-of-spec gas from being sent downstream after startup or restart.
BlastOff (optional)
If the unit includes BlastOff, an alarm will occur if the generator runs continuously for longer than the configured timer setting. This may indicate excessive nitrogen demand, a leak, or another condition preventing the system from reaching standby.
Common troubleshooting
Nitrogen generator not cycling
Probable causes may include:
- Low voltage or low amperage
- Tripped circuit breaker
- Blown fuse
- System left in the Off state
- Low operator air pressure
- Defective wiring
Recommended checks:
- Check the electrical source.
- Reset the circuit breaker if tripped.
- Replace blown fuses as needed.
- Confirm the Home screen start/stop switch is green.
- Check the incoming air source and internal air pressure regulator.
- Inspect wiring connections.
Nitrogen generator running continuously
Probable causes may include:
- Incorrect cut-out pressure
- Defective wiring between the pressure transducer and touchscreen
- Excessive nitrogen leakage
- Cycle pressure too low
Recommended checks:
- Verify the cut-out pressure is at the factory setting.
- Check pressure transducer wiring connections.
- Inspect the nitrogen system for leaks.
- Check the incoming air source and internal air pressure regulator.
Low nitrogen purity
Probable causes may include:
- Product flow too high
- O2 analyzer malfunction
- O2 sample flow port closed
- Blocked analyzer exhaust port
Recommended checks:
- Reduce product flow if the system is being overdrawn.
- Check analyzer operation.
- Verify the O2 sample port is open.
- Make sure the analyzer exhaust tube is not blocked.
Not building storage pressure
Probable causes may include:
- Bad process valve
- Defective wiring
- Disconnected pneumatic line
- No air pressure going to the pilot valves
Recommended checks:
- Check each individual valve for proper operation.
- Inspect wiring connections.
- Check pneumatic lines for leakage or disconnection.
- Verify the pilot valves are receiving adequate pressure.
When to contact South-Tek Systems
Contact South-Tek Systems if:
- The issue cannot be resolved using the checks above.
- Alarm conditions return repeatedly after reset.
- You suspect a failed valve, transducer, analyzer, or control component.
- You are considering changes to factory settings.
Related articles
- N2-GEN TS, CS, and S Series Initial Startup and Normal Startup
- N2-GEN TS, CS, and S Series Controls and Touchscreen Navigation
- N2-GEN TS, CS, and S Series Preventive Maintenance
- N2-GEN TS, CS, and S Series Safety Guidelines
- Industrial PSA Nitrogen Generator Service Cheat Sheet
Need additional support?
- Phone: (910) 415-1880
- Email: support@southteksystems911.zendesk.com