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

This article applies to South-Tek Systems industrial N2GEN-FLEX series PSA nitrogen generators.

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.

All N2GEN-FLEX units include either a virtual startup or an on-site startup. Customers should contact South-Tek Systems to schedule this startup before operating the system for the first time. Do not attempt initial startup until this has been coordinated with South-Tek.

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.

Included startup requirement

Prior to operating the system, contact South-Tek Systems to schedule the included virtual startup or on-site startup. N2GEN-FLEX systems are factory tuned to perform as specified and should not be adjusted without guidance from South-Tek Systems.

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.

What to watch during startup

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

Pressure
Purity
Flow rate

Depending on system configuration, additional values may also be shown, such as dew point, temperature, or cumulative flow.

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

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

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.

Full manual

For full operating, installation, and maintenance guidance, download the complete O&M manual below.

Download the N2GEN-FLEX Series O&M Manual

Need additional support?

If you need help with startup, commissioning, or system operation, contact South-Tek Systems Service.

Phone: (910) 415-1880
Email: support@southteksystems911.zendesk.com