AYAN AYAN-35L Membrane-Based Nitrogen Generator for LC-MS Applications

Overview

The AYAN AYAN-35L Membrane-Based Nitrogen Generator is an engineered solution designed specifically to support nitrogen-demanding analytical instrumentation—including liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS), electrospray ionization (ESI), and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) sources—within regulated laboratory environments. It employs hollow-fiber membrane separation technology, wherein compressed air is passed across asymmetric polymeric membranes that selectively permeate oxygen, water vapor, CO₂, and other trace gases while retaining nitrogen molecules. This physical separation mechanism eliminates the need for consumable adsorbents or cryogenic cooling, delivering continuous, on-demand nitrogen gas with stable purity ≥99% (v/v) and a consistent dew point of −45 °C. Unlike high-pressure cylinder systems, the AYAN-35L operates at low-to-medium pressure (up to 0.6 MPa), reducing mechanical stress on downstream interfaces and enhancing long-term compatibility with OEM LC-MS gas inlets. Its modular architecture integrates air compression conditioning, membrane separation, and triple-stage post-purification into a single footprint—ensuring compliance with ISO 8573-1:2010 Class 2.2.1 for compressed air quality when paired with appropriate upstream filtration.

Key Features

• Hollow-fiber membrane module sourced from Korea—certified for >15,000 hours of continuous operation without performance decay or replacement requirements.
• Integrated coalescing and desiccant-free water separation system, eliminating moisture-induced degradation of downstream components and extending service intervals.
• Triple-stage filtration cascade: (1) pre-filter (3 µm particulate), (2) activated carbon/oil removal stage (<0.003 mg/m³ oil aerosol), and (3) ultrafine particulate filter (<0.01 µm), compliant with ISO 8573-1 Class 2 particle limits.
• Digital real-time display of nitrogen purity (%N₂), output pressure (MPa), and volumetric flow rate (L/min)—with ±0.5% full-scale accuracy calibrated against traceable reference standards.
• Dual independent pressure regulation: primary membrane feed pressure control and secondary instrument-grade outlet pressure adjustment (0–0.6 MPa range), both accessible via front-panel rotary dials.
• PLC-based automation with embedded self-diagnostic routines—including membrane integrity checks, pressure deviation alerts, and thermal overload monitoring—with event logging timestamped to UTC.
• Internal buffer tank (12 L capacity) with ASME BPVC Section VIII Div. 1–rated safety relief valve (set at 0.7 MPa), ensuring passive overpressure protection without external intervention.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The AYAN-35L is validated for use with all major LC-MS platforms requiring dry, oil-free, high-purity nitrogen for nebulization, drying gas, and collision cell applications. It meets the inlet gas specifications outlined in ASTM D6352–22 (Standard Guide for Gas Purity Requirements in Mass Spectrometry) and aligns with ICH Q5C stability testing guidance for controlled atmosphere generation. While not FDA 21 CFR Part 11–validated out-of-the-box, its audit-trail-capable event log supports GLP/GMP documentation workflows when integrated into laboratory information management systems (LIMS). All electrical components conform to IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emissions) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity) standards. The unit carries CE marking under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Pressure Equipment Directive 2014/68/EU.

Software & Data Management

The generator includes a local HMI interface with non-volatile memory storing up to 30 days of operational history—including uptime, purity excursions, pressure transients, and diagnostic flags. Optional RS-485 Modbus RTU or Ethernet TCP/IP connectivity enables integration with building management systems (BMS) or centralized lab monitoring platforms. Data export is supported in CSV format via USB port; no proprietary software installation is required. All firmware updates are performed via signed binary upload through the web-based configuration portal (HTTPS-secured, password-protected), maintaining data integrity and version traceability per ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Clause 7.7.2.

Applications

• LC-MS and UHPLC-MS nitrogen supply for ESI and APCI sources
• Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) auxiliary gas (make-up gas, purge gas)
• NMR solvent degassing and inert atmosphere maintenance
• Cell culture incubator blanketing and glove box purging
• FTIR sample compartment purge and laser cavity stabilization
• Calibration gas dilution systems requiring stable, low-humidity N₂ background

FAQ

Is the AYAN-35L suitable for use with Thermo Fisher, Waters, and Agilent LC-MS systems?
Yes—the output specifications meet or exceed OEM-recommended inlet gas parameters for all major LC-MS platforms, including flow stability, dew point, and hydrocarbon/oil content limits.
Does the unit require routine membrane replacement?
No—the Korean-sourced hollow-fiber membrane is rated for >15,000 hours of continuous operation under specified inlet air quality (ISO 8573-1 Class 2.2.1); no scheduled replacement is necessary.
Can the generator operate unattended overnight or over weekends?
Yes—fully automated start/stop sequencing, thermal shutdown protection, and pressure-relief redundancy enable safe 24/7 operation without operator presence.
What compressed air supply is required?
A clean, oil-free, refrigerated-dried air source delivering 120–180 L/min at 0.7–1.0 MPa is recommended; an inline coalescing filter (0.01 µm) must be installed upstream if the air compressor lacks integrated filtration.
Is validation documentation provided for GxP environments?
Factory test reports (including flow calibration certificates, pressure decay tests, and dew point verification) are supplied; IQ/OQ protocols can be adapted using the included technical manual and performance specification sheet.