N2GEN-FLEX Series Initial Startup and Normal Startup – South-Tek Systems

Applies to: N2GEN-FLEX Series industrial PSA nitrogen generators — models 4TS, 6TS, 8TS, 10S, 12S, and 14S.

This article provides a general overview of how to start the system for the first time after installation and how to perform normal day-to-day startup from the touchscreen interface.

▲ Attention — Startup Required All N2GEN-FLEX units include either a virtual startup or an on-site startup. Contact South-Tek Systems to schedule it, and do not attempt initial startup until it has been coordinated with South-Tek. The system is factory tuned to perform as specified and should not be adjusted without guidance from South-Tek Systems.

Before initial startup

Before operating the generator for the first time, confirm that installation has been completed and that the site meets the published utility, environmental, and clearance requirements.

Confirm incoming power matches the system requirements.
Confirm compressed air supply is connected and meets specification.
Confirm the nitrogen outlet connection is complete.
Confirm the installation area is clean, dry, level, and ventilated.
Confirm the E-Stop is released.
Confirm the touchscreen powers on correctly.

Initial startup procedure

Verify the system is fully installed and ready for operation.
Ensure the E-Stop is not engaged.
Confirm the PLC and touchscreen are active.
From the Home screen, select the desired language.
Press Continue to open the Status screen.
Review the live operating values shown on the Status screen.
Use the On/Off control on the Status screen to start the generator.
Allow the system to cycle and build to normal operating conditions.

Home screen (select language, press Continue)

What to watch during startup

The Status screen displays the primary operating values used to confirm normal startup.

Pressure
Purity
Flow rate

Status screen (pressure, purity, flow, and the On/Off control)

Purity discharge during startup

The system includes a purity discharge feature. The Purity Discharge Rate setting is the minimum purity that must be met before nitrogen is allowed to flow to the customer application. If tank gas does not meet that threshold, it will be discharged to atmosphere until acceptable purity is reached.

Standby operation

N2GEN-FLEX systems can automatically enter standby mode during periods of low nitrogen demand to reduce unnecessary air consumption.

During operation, if output pressure remains above the configured Stopping Pressure for longer than the High Pressure Shutdown Delay, the system will go into standby. It will resume operation when pressure falls back to the configured Starting Pressure.

Depending on configuration, standby can also be controlled by flow rate settings rather than pressure settings. These standby methods should not be changed without direction from South-Tek Systems.

Normal startup after shutdown

For routine startup after the system has already been commissioned:

Confirm the E-Stop is released.
Confirm the touchscreen is powered on and responsive.
Open the Status screen.
Verify there are no active conditions preventing startup.
Use the On/Off control to start the system.
Review pressure, purity, and flow rate during the startup cycle.

Shutdown delay reminder

ℹ Note — Shutdown Delay After the system is turned off from the Status screen, do not restart it until the programmed Shutdown Delay has cleared. This delay helps prevent rapid cycling and protects system components from repeated starts and stops in a short period of time.

If the system does not start

Confirm the E-Stop is not engaged.
Confirm the PLC is powered on.
Confirm incoming power is within specification.
Confirm the system is not still within the shutdown delay period.
Review the touchscreen for alarms or abnormal readings.

Do not adjust during startup

▲ Attention Do not adjust valves, regulators, analyzer settings, calibration values, or PLC settings during startup unless specifically directed by South-Tek Systems. The system is factory tuned to perform to the required operating conditions.

Documentation

For full operating, installation, and maintenance guidance, download the documents below.

Need help? South-Tek Systems Service — Phone: (910) 415-1880 · Open a support ticket at support@southteksystems911.zendesk.com or through the Help Center.