i-Lab N2 Haloes Series High-Flow Nitrogen Generator
| Brand | i-Lab |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Regional Classification | Domestic (China) |
| Model | N2 Haloes |
| Instrument Type | Nitrogen Generator |
| Nitrogen Generation Principle | Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) using Carbon Molecular Sieves |
| Output Flow Rate | Up to 50 L/min (typical configuration) |
| Purity | 99.5%–99.9995% (adjustable per application requirement) |
| Outlet Pressure | 0–7 bar (g) adjustable |
| Dew Point | ≤ –40 °C (standard), optional down to –70 °C |
| Power Supply | 220 V AC, 50/60 Hz |
| Ambient Operating Temperature | 5–35 °C |
| Noise Level | < 60 dB(A) |
| Compliance | CE-marked, ISO 8573-1 Class 2:2:2 (compressed air feed required), compatible with GLP/GMP environments |
Overview
The i-Lab N2 Haloes Series is a high-flow, on-site nitrogen generator engineered for continuous, reliable operation in demanding laboratory and industrial settings. It employs Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) technology with optimized carbon molecular sieve (CMS) beds to separate nitrogen from compressed ambient air—removing oxygen, water vapor, and trace contaminants through selective adsorption under elevated pressure and desorption during depressurization cycles. Unlike cryogenic or membrane-based systems, PSA delivers stable, high-purity nitrogen (99.5% to 99.9995%) at flow rates up to 50 L/min without liquid nitrogen dependency or consumable cartridges. The system integrates dual CMS towers with automatic valve sequencing, ensuring uninterrupted output via alternating adsorption/desorption phases. Its modular architecture supports scalable deployment—from single-instrument LC-MS gas supply to centralized lab-wide nitrogen distribution networks.
Key Features
- Robust PSA core with twin CMS towers and precision electro-pneumatic control valves for >20,000 hours of maintenance-free operation
- Adjustable purity and flow output via intuitive touchscreen HMI; real-time monitoring of pressure, dew point, purity (via integrated O₂ sensor), and cycle status
- Integrated air pretreatment: multi-stage filtration (coalescing, activated carbon, desiccant) meeting ISO 8573-1 Class 2:2:2 requirements for inlet air quality
- Oil-free, quiet operation (<60 dB[A]) with thermal management system ensuring stability across ambient temperatures from 5–35 °C
- Modular footprint (standard 600 × 600 × 1200 mm) designed for floor-standing or rack-mount integration; optional skid-mounted configurations available for industrial utility rooms
- Compliance-ready architecture: audit trail logging, user access levels (admin/operator), and optional 21 CFR Part 11–compliant software package for regulated environments
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The N2 Haloes Series is validated for use with analytical instrumentation requiring inert, dry, hydrocarbon-free nitrogen—including LC-MS, GC-MS, FTIR, and elemental analyzers—where consistent gas quality directly impacts baseline stability and detection sensitivity. It meets ISO 8573-1:2010 Class 2:2:2 for particulate, water, and oil content in delivered gas when paired with certified inlet air treatment. For pharmaceutical R&D and manufacturing, the system supports Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) workflows through configurable electronic records, alarm history retention (>12 months), and calibration traceability to NIST-traceable standards. Optional validation documentation (DQ/IQ/OQ) and FAT/SAT support are available per client protocol.
Software & Data Management
The embedded i-Control™ firmware provides local HMI control with password-protected parameter adjustment, event logging, and predictive maintenance alerts (e.g., filter saturation, CMS efficiency drift). Remote monitoring is enabled via Ethernet (TCP/IP) or RS485 Modbus RTU interface, allowing integration into building management systems (BMS) or centralized lab infrastructure dashboards. Data export supports CSV and XML formats; time-stamped logs include O₂ concentration (%v/v), outlet pressure (bar), flow rate (L/min), and temperature (°C). For regulated labs, the optional i-Verify™ software module adds electronic signatures, role-based permissions, and FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant audit trails with immutable record storage.
Applications
- LC-MS & GC-MS Laboratories: Supplies carrier, nebulizer, and collision gases with sub-10 ppm O₂ and ≤–40 °C dew point—reducing ion source contamination and improving mass accuracy
- Pharmaceutical Development: Supports inert blanketing during lyophilization, API synthesis, and vial stoppering; enables controlled atmosphere packaging validation per USP
- Food & Beverage Processing: Provides food-grade nitrogen (ISO 8573-7 compliant with optional food-grade certification) for modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), foam stabilization in nitro-brewed coffee, and tank blanketing during fermentation
- Electronics Manufacturing: Delivers ultra-dry, high-purity nitrogen for solder paste storage, reflow oven inerting, and cleanroom purge systems in semiconductor front-end fabrication
- Metalworking & Laser Cutting: Serves as shielding gas for fiber laser cutting of stainless steel and aluminum, minimizing oxidation and improving edge quality per ISO 14555
FAQ
What inlet air quality is required for optimal PSA performance?
Compressed air must meet ISO 8573-1 Class 2:2:2 (≤0.1 µm particles, ≤0.1 mg/m³ oil, ≤−40 °C dew point). i-Lab recommends pairing the N2 Haloes with its certified pre-filtration package.
Can the system be integrated with existing lab gas manifolds?
Yes—the unit features standard BSPP 1/2″ and ISO G1/2″ outlet ports; custom manifold interfaces and pressure-reducing station integration are supported.
Is routine CMS replacement required?
No. The CMS beds are rated for ≥10 years under nominal operating conditions; performance degradation is monitored continuously via O₂ sensor feedback and logged for preventive maintenance planning.
Does the generator support regulatory audit requirements?
With the i-Verify™ software option, full 21 CFR Part 11 compliance—including electronic signatures, audit trails, and data integrity controls—is achieved for FDA, EMA, and PMDA submissions.
What safety certifications does the unit hold?
CE marking per Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU; electrical design conforms to IEC 61000-6-2/6-4 for industrial electromagnetic compatibility.
