Polar Systems, a leading UK designer and manufacturer of food processing equipment with a long history in metal fabrication, has significantly boosted its productivity and operational capacity by replacing an unreliable oil-based Nitrogen PSA system with an oil-free Nitrogen generator for laser cutting application from Oxysystems.
Established in 1986, Polar Systems pioneered the world’s first fully automated whelk processing line and has since grown to employ over 70 professionals, including designers, project engineers, control and automation electrical engineers, machine center programmers, CNC profiling programmers, fabrication and machine shop engineers, and on-site installation teams.
In 2021, Polar Systems recognized the need for a more efficient and reliable nitrogen supply to meet their increasing demand. They invested in an oil-free PSA application from Oxysystems to protect their laser machines and enhance productivity. Previously, the company’s production relied on liquid bulk supply, requiring weekly tank top-ups. Rising costs and logistical challenges prompted the shift to an on-site PSA system.
Initially, Polar Systems implemented an oil-based PSA system intended to provide a consistent nitrogen supply around the clock. However, this system soon proved problematic, as oil carryovers contaminated the nitrogen tanks, leading to slowed production and compromised laser processes. Frequent system breakdowns necessitated multiple engineer visits and posed a risk to the expensive laser equipment due to oil contamination and a damaged laser head.
Seeking a more reliable solution, Polar Systems turned to Oxysystems for an oil-free Nitrogen generator for laser cutting PSA capable of 24/7 operation and guaranteed contamination-free nitrogen, complete with a monitoring solution for comprehensive oversight. Upon investigation, it was found that the existing oil-based PSA system was saturated with oil, damaging its internal components and contaminating the end product. This issue is common with high-pressure compressors (boosters) that are oil-based, as they require frequent filter changes and run very fast and hot.
“Our oil-free nitrogen generator for laser cutting PSA system not only guarantees oil-free nitrogen but also offers efficient service, production, and maintenance without the need for filter changes in the end process. It withstands long operating hours with complete automation, operates quietly, and runs cooler.”
The oil-free high-pressure compressor (booster) with a touchscreen display, the system is fully automated delivering a constant supply of high-pressure nitrogen.
Clearcut from the laser machine using the pure nitrogen PSA.
The entire Nitrogen PSA system is situated in a line from the air compressor to the oil-free High-pressure with storage bundles.
Since implementing the oil-free system, Polar Systems has enjoyed uninterrupted 24/7 operation with a constant flow of pure nitrogen at the high pressure required for their laser equipment. The company is now planning to expand the system to double its output and accommodate additional laser equipment.
