The N2-GEN™ 4 is a self-contained nitrogen generation system available in two configurations: a Deployable version housed in a rugged mobile hard case for field use, and a Standalone version (military designation NM400) designed for fixed wall, floor, or tank mounting. Both configurations use the same underlying generator — an integral oil-free compressor feeding compressed air through hollow-fiber membrane elements to produce nitrogen on demand. Where specifications or procedures differ between configurations, they are clearly called out throughout this article set.
System Overview
The N2-GEN™ 4 generates nitrogen by drawing ambient air through an integral oil-free compressor. The compressed air passes through a two-stage filter assembly to remove moisture, oil, and particulates, then flows through two hollow-fiber membrane bundles. The membranes allow oxygen and other gases to permeate through their walls and vent to atmosphere, while nitrogen passes through to the output. Product nitrogen is stored in a connected nitrogen storage tank with an automatic pressure switch that cycles the system between Run and Standby mode.
Technical Specifications
Performance
| Parameter | Deployable (Hard Case) | Standalone / NM400 |
|---|---|---|
| Nitrogen purity | 98.5% (±0.2%) | 98.5% (±0.2%) |
| Output flow | 10 LPM | 10 LPM |
| N2 storage cut-in pressure | ~30 PSIG | ~75 PSIG |
| N2 storage cut-out pressure | ~80 PSIG | 100 PSIG |
| Nitrogen output port | ¼" Quick Connect | ¼" NPT Female |
| Mounting | Mobile hard case | Wall, floor, or tank mount |
Electrical — Both Configurations
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Supply voltage | 110 VAC / 60 Hz / 1 Phase |
| Circuit breaker requirement | 20 Amp dedicated circuit |
| Compressor type | Integral / oil-free |
Physical & Environmental
| Parameter | Deployable (Hard Case) | Standalone / NM400 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 28"W × 21.5"D × 52"H (with case) | 32"H × 12"W × 11"D (cabinet only) |
| Weight | Approx. 180 lbs (with case) | 75 lbs (cabinet only) |
| Ambient temperature | 40–90°F (4–32°C) | 35–90°F (2–32°C) |
| Installation | Mobile; indoors; upright; solvent-free | Indoors; upright; wall/floor/tank mount; solvent-free |
| Noise level | Under 80 dBA | Under 80 dBA |
Key Components
Hard Case and Mobility Features (Deployable configuration only)
The hard case provides impact-resistant protection for transport and deployment. It is equipped with handles and wheels for ground mobility. The main door is secured with flip-and-turn latches; the interior uses high-density foam to secure both the generator and storage tank in place. Two exterior accessory compartments provide storage for hoses, fittings, and connection equipment.
Integral Oil-Free Air Compressor
An internal oil-free compressor provides all feed air for the membrane nitrogen generator — no external compressed air source is required. A pre-filter is mounted on the compressor air intake. An axial fan draws ambient air through the generator cabinet to cool the compressor during operation.
Filter Assembly
A two-stage filter assembly — a general-purpose particulate filter and a coalescing filter — removes solid particles, water, and oil aerosols from the compressed air before it reaches the membranes. Both filters include auto-drain floats. Drain lines are routed to the outside of the cabinet where ¼" OD tubing can be connected to route condensate to a safe location. A pressure gauge on the filter assembly displays upstream air pressure.
Membrane Elements
Two hollow-fiber membrane bundles are mounted vertically at the rear of the generator cabinet. Compressed air flows through the interior of the fibers; oxygen, water vapor, and other gases permeate through the fiber walls and vent to atmosphere, while nitrogen exits the downstream end as product gas. A membrane tuning valve controls sweep flow through the assembly — this valve is factory-set and must not be adjusted in the field.
Nitrogen Storage Tank
Both configurations include a nitrogen storage tank with a built-in pressure switch that automatically starts and stops the generator based on tank pressure. The tank includes a 150 PSIG safety relief valve.
Control Panel and Indicator Lights
The generator control panel is located on the side of the cabinet and includes the following:
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Power switch / fuse | Main on/off switch with 8-amp inline fuse |
| Hour meter | Tracks cumulative run hours for maintenance scheduling |
| Operate light (green) | Illuminated when the system is actively running and producing nitrogen |
| Standby light (amber) | Illuminated when the storage tank is full and the system is waiting for demand |
| Filter Service light (red) | Illuminated when filter elements are due for replacement |
| BlastOff™ light & buzzer (if equipped) | Activates when the leak detection system detects a nitrogen line leak; system shuts down automatically |
| Nitrogen output port | ¼" quick connect (Deployable) or ¼" NPT female (Standalone / NM400) |
| Pressure gauge | Displays nitrogen storage tank pressure |
Safety Relief Valves
ASME-approved safety relief valves are installed throughout the system to protect against over-pressurization. These must never be disabled, bypassed, or tampered with. The storage tank relief valve is rated at 150 PSIG.
BlastOff™ Leak Detection (optional)
If a leak is detected anywhere in the nitrogen line, the BlastOff™ light illuminates, the audible buzzer activates, and the system shuts down automatically. Power cycling the unit will reset the alarm temporarily — but the underlying leak must be found and corrected before resuming normal operation. Repeated resets without correcting the leak will shorten the life of the system.
Related Articles
- N2-GEN™ 4 Deployable / NM400 — Installation & Startup
- N2-GEN™ 4 Deployable / NM400 — Operation & Controls
- N2-GEN™ 4 Deployable / NM400 — Maintenance & Troubleshooting
- N2-GEN™ 4 Deployable / NM400 — Safety Guidelines
Contact South-Tek Systems
Phone: (910) 415-1880
Email / Ticket: support@southteksystems911.zendesk.com