Tire manufacturing relies heavily on nitrogen gas. Nitrogen is used throughout the production process, from mixing and shaping rubber compounds to vulcanization and final tire inflation. By generating a reliable supply of high-purity nitrogen on-site, tire manufacturers can enhance quality, efficiency, and safety.
Why On-Site Nitrogen Matters in Tire Production
Nitrogen offers major advantages over compressed air:
- Nitrogen prevents premature degradation and aging of rubber components through oxidation reduction
- Moisture removal improves product consistency and bladder longevity
- Superior pressure stability compared to air enhances uniform vulcanization
- On-site nitrogen benefits:
- Unlimited supply without deliveries
- Higher gas purity levels (>95%)
- Lower operating costs
- Better process control
- Reduced risks associated with bulk distribution
Essential Role of Nitrogen in Tire Curing Presses
The curing process gives tires their final shape and treads. Key functions provided by nitrogen:
- Facilitates cross-linking and vulcanization of rubber compounds
- Provides an inert, stable gaseous medium for applying pressure
- Enables precise control of system pressure, separate from heating
- Obtainable from on-site PSA generator like OxyNitra
Benefits of PSA Nitrogen for Curing Presses
Compared to traditional steam or hot water methods, OxyNitra PSA nitrogen curing offers:
- Increased productivity from continuous nitrogen supply
- 25-50% longer bladder lifetime from purity and lack of oxygen
- Reduced operating costs without steam infrastructure
- Lower scrap and improved product quality
- Simplified equipment, smaller production footprint
PSA Generator Provider Case Study
OxyNitra, specializes in on-site nitrogen generator solutions utilizing Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) technology for tire, rubber, and other industries. Successful case examples demonstrate ROI within 12 months along with quality improvements.
Some tire manufacturers who purchased nitrogen generators from OxyNitra:
Optimizing Nitrogen Tire Inflation
Filling tires with 95%+ pure nitrogen instead of air provides:
- 75% fewer blowouts caused by pressure loss
- Minimized oxidation and corrosion without oxygen
- Up to 30% longer tire life through sustained inflation
- Reduced irregular wear from consistent inflation pressure
- Lower rolling resistance, improved fuel economy
Nitrogen remains stable and unreactive within the enclosed tire cavity over long periods. This maintains the required shape and pressure level, extending the working life span.
Selecting the Right Nitrogen Generator
Key factors when choosing an on-site PSA nitrogen generator:
- Output meets present and future production demands
- Ability to achieve 95-99% purity consistently
- Minimal downtime through redundant components
- Automated touchscreen controls ease operation
- Regular maintenance service ensured by provider
Safety and Risk Management
While essential for production, nitrogen does carry safety risks related to asphyxiation in confined spaces. Comprehensive protocols and monitoring systems must be implemented including oxygen meters, warning signs and availability of fresh air.
Conclusion
Investing in an appropriately sized on-site PSA nitrogen generator delivers rapid ROI for tire manufacturers through boosted efficiency, quality and lifetime value. As an unlimited source of high pressure nitrogen, PSA technology solves production limitations associated with bulk deliveries while supporting innovative curing methods. Partnering with an experienced nitrogen solutions provider ensures optimal generator selection and functionality.
