ChemTron Onyx Series PSA Oxygen Generator

Overview

The ChemTron Onyx Series PSA Oxygen Generator is an engineered solution for on-site, continuous oxygen supply in laboratory, pilot-scale, and light industrial environments. Based on pressure swing adsorption (PSA) technology, the system separates oxygen from ambient air using specialized zeolite molecular sieves that selectively adsorb nitrogen under elevated pressure, allowing high-purity oxygen (>95% v/v) to pass through the bed. Upon depressurization, the adsorbed nitrogen is vented, regenerating the sieve for the next cycle. This cyclic, valve-controlled process ensures stable output without consumables or cryogenic infrastructure. Designed for reliability and operational simplicity, the Onyx integrates a built-in oil-free scroll compressor, eliminating dependency on external compressed air sources. Its compact footprint, low acoustic signature (<55 dB(A)), and energy-efficient operation make it suitable for placement within controlled lab spaces or near point-of-use applications such as ozone generation, aquaculture systems, or materials processing stations.

Key Features

• Integrated oil-free scroll compressor — eliminates need for external air supply and associated filtration or drying stages
• Robust polyphenylsulfone (PPSU)-reinforced polystyrene housing — impact-resistant, non-conductive, and compliant with IEC 61010-1 safety requirements for laboratory equipment
• Front-access service panel with tool-free filter replacement and desiccant cartridge access — reduces mean time to repair (MTTR)
• Real-time LED status indicators for pressure, flow, sieve regeneration phase, and system fault conditions
• Passive cooling architecture — no forced-air fans required, contributing to low noise emission and extended component lifetime
• Rolling base with dual-locking casters — enables repositioning across lab zones without disassembly or recalibration

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Onyx series delivers consistent 95% oxygen purity with dew point ≤ –73°C, meeting feed-gas specifications for downstream ozone generators (e.g., per ISO 14644-1 Class 8 cleanroom air quality for ozone cell inlet), aquaponic aeration systems, and thermal processing tools requiring inert or oxidizing atmospheres. All electrical and mechanical design elements conform to CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 61010-1, 2nd Edition and UL 61010-1, 2nd Edition — ensuring safe operation in laboratories governed by GLP, ISO/IEC 17025, or FDA-regulated research settings. While not certified for medical gas use (per ISO 8573-1:2010 Class 1 or USP ), its output meets ASTM D6345-20 requirements for technical-grade oxygen in non-clinical analytical and process applications.

Software & Data Management

The Onyx operates as a standalone, microprocessor-controlled unit with embedded logic governing cycle timing, pressure sequencing, and alarm thresholds. Though it does not include Ethernet or USB connectivity, its analog 4–20 mA O₂ concentration and pressure output signals are compatible with third-party SCADA, BMS, or data acquisition systems (e.g., LabVIEW, Ignition SCADA) for audit-trail-capable monitoring. Event logs—including cumulative runtime, sieve cycle count, and fault codes—are retained in non-volatile memory and accessible via front-panel diagnostics mode. For facilities requiring 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, integration with validated electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) or LIMS platforms is supported through configurable analog I/O and relay dry-contact outputs.

Applications

• Scientific research requiring stable, high-flow oxygen for combustion studies, catalytic reactor feeds, or electrochemical cell testing
• Aquaculture and hydroponic/aquaponic systems where dissolved oxygen enhancement improves biomass yield and pathogen control
• Thermal processing including jewelry annealing, brazing, and glass fusing—where precise O₂ enrichment improves flame temperature and reduces fuel consumption
• Environmental remediation workflows using ozone-based oxidation, where on-demand oxygen feed minimizes storage hazards and delivery delays
• Calibration gas preparation for trace-level oxygen analyzers (e.g., paramagnetic or zirconia sensors) in QA/QC labs

FAQ

Does the Onyx require external compressed air?
No — it features an integrated oil-free scroll compressor rated for continuous duty at ambient temperatures up to 35°C.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?
Pre-filtration stage filters should be replaced every 6 months; main zeolite beds are rated for ≥20,000 hours of operation under typical lab conditions (ISO 8573-7 Class 4 air intake).
Can the Onyx be installed in an enclosed cabinet?
Yes — provided minimum clearance of 100 mm on all sides and ambient airflow ≥20 m³/h is maintained to prevent heat buildup.
Is oxygen purity affected by altitude or ambient humidity?
Output purity remains stable at 95% ±0.5% across elevations up to 2,000 m ASL; integrated coalescing and desiccant pre-filters mitigate humidity-induced sieve degradation.
How is system performance validated post-installation?
Users may verify flow rate using a calibrated rotameter and confirm purity via portable electrochemical O₂ analyzer (e.g., Bacharach PCA-4); factory calibration certificates are supplied with each unit.