Key industrial nitrogen supply cases

Food preservation

In controlled atmosphere product storage nitrogen is used to reduce oxygen contained in liquids (‘sparging’), or to fill the air space above liquids in storage tanks (‘blanketing’).

In Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) nitrogen is protecting food against oxidation, mould, insect infestation and moisture migration.

Metals

Nitrogen can be used in a wide range of metal production processes that involve heat, such as additive manufacturing/3D Printing, annealing, brazing, carburizing, quenching, and vacuum processing.

Production of primary nonferrous metals

Smelting, melting and nonferrous-metal refining processes all rely on dependable and economical supplies of both nitrogen and oxygen.

Glass

The use of nitrogen helps prevent defects and other undesirable results in the glass-forming process. Air Products has an experienced, in-house team to help you drive innovation in your glass production process.

Chemicals

Nitrogen is used as an inert gas in many chemical production processes.

Nitrogen can be used as a miscible gas to reduce the viscosity – and improve the flow – of oil and other hydrocarbons in enhanced recovery operations.

On-site nitrogen generators also provides a cost-effective supply of oxygen, which can be used to enhance combustion.

Marine

Nitrogen is widely used on board ships and offshore installations – primarily to prevent explosions and fires.

Automotive

Many motoring components, including electronics systems, are produced in relatively inert, nitrogen-rich environments.

Pharmaceuticals

Nitrogen is used both within the production of pharmaceuticals, when a highly inert environment is necessary, and also as a packaging preservative.