PEAK Horizen 24 Single-Quadrupole LC-MS Nitrogen Generator

Overview

The PEAK Horizen 24 is an integrated, compressor-equipped nitrogen generator engineered specifically for single-quadrupole liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) systems. It employs hollow-fiber membrane separation (MEM) technology—a pressure-driven gas separation process in which compressed air passes through semi-permeable polymeric membranes. Due to differential permeability, oxygen, water vapor, carbon dioxide, and other trace gases diffuse preferentially through the membrane walls, while nitrogen—exhibiting lower permeability—remains concentrated in the retentate stream. This physical separation mechanism delivers continuous, on-demand nitrogen at 99.5% purity without consumables, catalysts, or regeneration cycles. Designed for direct integration with benchtop LC-MS platforms—including Thermo Fisher ISQ, Agilent 6100/6120 series, and Waters SQ Detector 2—the Horizen 24 eliminates reliance on high-pressure nitrogen cylinders, reducing logistical overhead, safety risks, and operational downtime associated with cylinder handling and changeovers.

Key Features

• Integrated oil-free scroll compressor: Eliminates need for external compressed air supply; ensures stable inlet pressure and flow control.
• Compact footprint (W × D × H: 320 × 420 × 540 mm): Optimized for placement beneath or adjacent to LC-MS workstations without compromising bench space.
• Thermally efficient design: Low power consumption (< 1.2 kW) and minimal heat dissipation (< 1.8 kW thermal load), supporting temperature-sensitive lab environments.
• Onboard desiccant and coalescing filtration: Delivers nitrogen meeting ISO 8573-1 Class 2:2:2 (solid particles ≤ 0.1 µm, dew point ≤ −40 °C, oil content ≤ 0.01 mg/m³).
• Digital pressure and flow monitoring: Real-time display of output pressure (0–116 psi) and volumetric flow (0–24 L/min) via front-panel LED interface.
• Auto-shutdown and fault diagnostics: Integrated sensors monitor membrane integrity, compressor temperature, and filter saturation; alerts trigger audible/visual indicators and safe shutdown.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Horizen 24 is validated for use with all major single-quadrupole LC-MS instruments requiring nitrogen as a nebulizing, drying, or collision gas. Its output specifications align with manufacturer-specified gas requirements for electrospray ionization (ESI) and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) sources. The generated nitrogen complies with ASTM D6352–20 (Standard Guide for Gas Purity in Mass Spectrometry) and meets the minimum purity threshold (≥99.5%) recommended by ICH Q5C for analytical instrumentation used in regulated pharmaceutical testing. While not certified to ISO/IEC 17025, the system supports GLP/GMP-aligned documentation practices through optional audit-ready log export (via RS-232 or USB).

Software & Data Management

The Horizen 24 operates as a standalone hardware unit with no proprietary software dependency. All operational parameters are managed locally via the front-panel interface. For laboratories implementing centralized gas monitoring, analog 4–20 mA outputs (optional) enable integration into building management systems (BMS) or LabVantage/LIMS platforms. Event logs—including runtime hours, compressor cycles, and alarm history—are stored onboard for ≥12 months and exportable as CSV files. The device supports FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant workflows when paired with validated third-party electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) that enforce user authentication, audit trails, and electronic signatures for maintenance records.

Applications

• LC-MS method development and routine QC analysis in pharmaceutical, biotech, and environmental labs.
• High-throughput screening where uninterrupted gas supply is critical to instrument uptime and data continuity.
• Multi-instrument nitrogen sharing (e.g., coupling with one LC-MS and one nitrogen-purged autosampler) using calibrated flow splitters.
• Replacement of dewar-based liquid nitrogen systems in applications where cryogenic handling poses ergonomic or regulatory constraints.
• Supporting ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing where documented gas source traceability and consistency are required.

FAQ

Does the Horizen 24 require an external compressed air source?

No—it integrates a maintenance-free oil-free scroll compressor, enabling true plug-and-play operation from a standard 230 V / 50 Hz outlet.
Can it be used with tandem quadrupole (QqQ) or high-resolution mass spectrometers?

It is optimized for single-quadrupole systems; QqQ and HRMS platforms often demand higher purity (>99.9%) or flow stability under dynamic duty cycles—consult PEAK application engineering before deployment.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?

Pre-filters require replacement every 6 months under continuous operation; the hollow-fiber membrane module is rated for ≥20,000 operating hours with proper inlet air quality (ISO 8573-1 Class 4 or better).
Is the nitrogen output suitable for GC carrier gas applications?

No—while technically compatible, GC carrier gas requires ≥99.999% purity and ultra-low hydrocarbon content; the Horizen 24 is not designed to meet those specifications.
How does ambient temperature affect performance?

Rated for operation between 15–30 °C; sustained ambient temperatures above 32 °C may reduce maximum achievable flow rate by up to 8% due to compressor derating and membrane permeability shifts.