PEAK SOLARIS XE Nitrogen Generator for Small-Scale Mass Spectrometry
| Brand | PEAK |
|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Manufacturer Type | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) |
| Product Origin | Imported |
| Model | SOLARIS XE |
| Nitrogen Generation Principle | Membrane Separation |
| Output Flow Rate | Up to 35 L/min |
| Output Pressure | Up to 116 psi |
| Nitrogen Purity | Up to 99.5% |
Overview
The PEAK SOLARIS XE Nitrogen Generator is an engineered solution designed specifically to support low-to-moderate nitrogen demand applications in analytical laboratories—particularly liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS), compact benchtop mass spectrometers, and multiple evaporative light scattering detectors (ELSD). It employs hollow-fiber membrane separation technology to extract high-purity nitrogen from a clean, dry compressed air feed stream. This principle relies on the differential permeation rates of oxygen, water vapor, and carbon dioxide through polymeric membranes, allowing nitrogen to be selectively retained and delivered at consistent purity and pressure. Unlike cryogenic or pressure swing adsorption (PSA) systems, the membrane-based architecture offers silent, vibration-free operation with no moving parts beyond internal solenoid valves—ensuring long-term reliability, minimal maintenance, and rapid start-up (<60 seconds to stable output). The SOLARIS XE is not a standalone air compressor; it requires an external compressed air supply meeting ISO 8573-1:2010 Class 1.4.1 specifications (maximum 0.1 µm particles, ≤0.01 mg/m³ oil content, dew point ≤−40 °C at 7 bar). Its compact footprint and stackable chassis enable seamless integration into space-constrained lab environments—including under-bench enclosures or shared instrument benches.
Key Features
- Membrane-based nitrogen generation delivering up to 35 L/min at ≥99.5% N₂ purity (balance primarily O₂ and trace argon)
- Adjustable output pressure from ambient to 116 psi (8.0 bar), regulated via integrated precision pressure control valve
- Digitally tunable flow rate with real-time feedback via front-panel LED indicators—color-coded (green/yellow/red) for intuitive status monitoring
- Compact, stackable design (W × D × H: 240 × 400 × 360 mm) suitable for benchtop placement or vertical configuration to optimize floor space
- Compliance with CE marking per EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and EMC Directive 2014/30/EU; FCC Part 15 Class B certified for electromagnetic compatibility
- 12-month on-site comprehensive warranty (Peak Protected™), including labor, parts, and preventive maintenance visit
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SOLARIS XE is compatible with all LC-MS systems requiring nitrogen for electrospray ionization (ESI), atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI), and collision-induced dissociation (CID) gas; it also supports ELSDs, nitrogen laser purging, and inert atmosphere glove boxes where ultra-high purity is not mandated (e.g., >99.999%). While it does not meet USP or ISO 8573-1:2010 Class 0 requirements for pharmaceutical-grade nitrogen, its 99.5% purity aligns with typical OEM specifications for Agilent, Waters, Shimadzu, and Thermo Fisher LC-MS platforms operating in research and QC environments. The unit complies with ISO 13849-1:2015 for safety-related control systems and incorporates redundant pressure relief mechanisms to prevent over-pressurization. All electrical components conform to RoHS 2011/65/EU and REACH SVHC regulations.
Software & Data Management
The SOLARIS XE operates as a standalone hardware device without embedded software or network connectivity. However, its analog 0–10 VDC and digital 4–20 mA output signals allow integration into centralized lab infrastructure via programmable logic controllers (PLCs) or building management systems (BMS). Optional analog I/O modules support remote monitoring of outlet pressure, flow rate, and membrane health diagnostics (via differential pressure across the membrane stack). Though not FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliant out-of-the-box, audit-ready log files—including runtime hours, pressure excursions, and service alerts—can be exported manually via USB interface for GLP/GMP documentation workflows when paired with validated third-party data acquisition software.
Applications
- LC-MS mobile phase nebulization and desolvation gas supply
- Multi-ELSD parallel operation in HPLC method development labs
- Nitrogen blanketing during sample preparation and solvent evaporation
- Carrier gas for portable GC-MS and miniature ion trap instruments
- Inert purge gas for FTIR sample compartments and optical alignment enclosures
- Cost-effective alternative to high-pressure nitrogen cylinders in medium-throughput academic and contract research laboratories
FAQ
Does the SOLARIS XE include an integrated air compressor?
No. It requires an externally supplied clean, dry compressed air source meeting ISO 8573-1:2010 Class 1.4.1.
What maintenance is required?
Annual replacement of inlet coalescing filter and desiccant pre-filter; membrane stack life exceeds 15,000 operational hours under specified air quality conditions.
Can output pressure be regulated independently of flow rate?
Yes. Pressure and flow are independently adjustable via front-panel controls, enabling stable delivery across varying instrument demand profiles.
Is the unit suitable for GMP-regulated environments?
It supports GMP-aligned operations when used with documented SOPs, calibration records, and periodic verification of output purity (e.g., using handheld electrochemical O₂ analyzers).
What is the maximum stacking height for SOLARIS XE units?
Up to three units may be stacked vertically, provided total load does not exceed 100 kg (220.4 lb) and ventilation clearance (≥50 mm top/side) is maintained.
