An inert gas generator is a device that produces low-oxygen inert gas to prevent combustion and explosion in enclosed spaces. The core working principle of the inert gas generator is to reduce the oxygen concentration in the gas mixture, so that the environment cannot support combustion reactions.
There are two mainstream technical routes for inert gas generators. The first is the combustion-type inert gas generator. It burns fuel in a controlled combustion chamber with limited air supply. After fuel combustion, oxygen in the air is consumed, producing flue gas mainly composed of nitrogen and carbon dioxide. The high-temperature flue gas then goes through cooling, washing and purification modules. The treatment process removes particulate matter, sulfur oxides and water vapor, and the cleaned low-oxygen gas is delivered to the target enclosed space.
The second type is the membrane separation or pressure swing adsorption inert gas generator. This type does not rely on combustion. It uses compressed air as raw material. Under pressure, air flows through special separation media. Nitrogen molecules pass through the medium while oxygen, water vapor and other components are intercepted. In this way, high-purity nitrogen is separated from air, which acts as inert gas.
During operation, the inert gas generator continuously monitors the oxygen content of output gas via sensors. When the oxygen value exceeds the preset threshold, the system automatically adjusts operating parameters such as fuel supply, air flow or adsorption cycle to stabilize gas quality. The generated inert gas is transported through pipelines to the confined tank or cabin, gradually displacing the original air and lowering the oxygen level.
The inert gas generated will not participate in oxidation and combustion reactions. It can isolate flammable vapors from oxygen, suppressing fire risks. The whole process does not change the structure of protected equipment. Inert gas generators are widely used in oil tanks, chemical storage cabins and marine cargo tanks to form safe inert atmosphere and reduce explosion hazards.
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