Laboratory Nitrogen Gas System Installation at UWA
Nessco Pressure Systems installed a nitrogen gas distribution system for the Soil Science Department at the University of Western Australia’s School of Agriculture and Environment.
The laboratory required a controlled nitrogen supply for specialised pressure chambers used to measure water retention in soil samples.
Supplying nitrogen to multiple pressure chambers
NPS installed stainless steel pipework to connect the nitrogen gas cylinder to multiple pressure chambers within the laboratory.
The system incorporated pressure regulators, braided hoses and quick-release fittings to provide controlled nitrogen supply to each chamber.
The pressure chambers allow researchers to apply controlled pressure to saturated soil samples. As pressure increases, water is gradually forced from the sample. Researchers can then use the results to understand how different soils retain water.
This information can help determine the amount of water available to plants and support research into soil health, agriculture and land management.
Safety considerations for the laboratory
Safety was an important part of the installation, particularly because nitrogen can displace oxygen within an enclosed space.
NPS installed safety signage and an oxygen depletion sensor as part of the system.
The university also manages laboratory access and safe work practices, including inductions covering equipment use and compressed gas safety.
Specialist gas system design and installation
Compressed air isn’t the only gas that requires carefully designed distribution pipework.
Nessco Pressure Systems can design, install and commission specialist gas systems for laboratory and industrial applications. We consider the required gas, pressure, flow, purity, equipment and application when designing each system.
For this project, the result was a purpose-built nitrogen distribution system designed around the laboratory’s testing equipment and research requirements.
To discuss a specialist compressed air or gas system, call our team on 1300 290 638 or contact us online.
