Comparing Gas Powered And Liquid Nitrogen Air Compressors

Air duct cleaning is a complicated process, requiring a variety of tools such as a duct-cleaning air compressor, duct-cleaning vacuum, air whips, skipper balls, and a lot more. When it comes to compressors, the traditional gas-powered one is the most prominent choice. However, according to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), there is an alternative. Some situations may warrant the use of liquid nitrogen as a source of compressed air. How this process will work and when its various advantages and disadvantages are addressed in this blog.

 

How Does A Liquid Nitrogen Powered Compressor Work?

 

To make liquid nitrogen for a duct-cleaning air compressor, regular air undergoes a process known as fractional distillation. Once this process is complete, the highly pressurized air is filled into a tank that can bear the right pressure which also contains a nitrogen membrane. This membrane separates liquid nitrogen from other contaminants like hydrogen and carbon dioxide. Thus, this highly pressurized liquid nitrogen is ready to be used as a duct-cleaning tool.

 

Benefits Of Liquid Nitrogen

 

Extremely Safe:

 

Due to the inert nature of nitrogen, it is quite safe to transport and carry even when it is highly pressurized as it poses no risk of igniting.

 

Consistency:

 

The pressure in a nitrogen tank will remain constant, guaranteeing a steady, pressurized stream of air for the whips. Whereas in a conventional gas-powered compressor, there might be a pressure drop with constant usage, requiring some time before it reaches the right pressure once again.

 

Drawbacks Of Liquid Nitrogen

 

Maneuverability:

 

According to NADCA, these nitrogen tanks can weigh as much as 900 pounds in some cases. Therefore, it can be a massive challenge to transport and maneuver these tanks during a duct cleaning task. So if a contractor has to perform cleaning at a high-rise building or any other precarious location, then a gas-powered air compressor is the best choice.

 

Heat Seal Equipment Ltd. is a one-stop destination for all equipment and inventory related to duct cleaning, insulation installation or removal, or dryer vent cleaning, such as duct cleaning vacuum, insulation removal vacuum, skipper balls, and more. Call us today to learn more.