ZW-5.4/6~20 Nitrogen Compressor – Variable-Pressure Oil-Free N2 Booster for Flexible Industrial Applications

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ZW-5.4/6~20 Nitrogen Compressor – Variable-Pressure Oil-Free N2 Booster for Flexible Industrial Applications

Engineered to deliver 5.4 m³/min across a versatile pressure range from 0.60 MPa to 2.00 MPa, the ZW-5.4/6~20 is a two-stage, two-row oil-free piston nitrogen compressor designed for multi-pressure nitrogen distribution, pilot plant operations, and flexible industrial gas systems. Zero oil contamination, compact footprint, and optimized for variable-pressure duty cycles.

 

Tổng quan sản phẩm

The ZW-5.4/6~20 nitrogen compressor represents a uniquely versatile solution within our oil-free piston compressor family, distinguished by its broad operating pressure range that spans from 0.60 MPa to 2.00 MPa at a consistent capacity of 5.4 m³/min. This variable-pressure capability makes the unit exceptionally well-suited for applications where nitrogen demand fluctuates between medium-pressure and high-pressure requirements, or where a single compressor must serve multiple consumers at different pressure levels.

The designation “6~20” in the model number reflects the compressor’s ability to operate across a discharge pressure spectrum equivalent to 0.60–2.00 MPa, achieved through adjustable clearance pocket control and staged unloading mechanisms. This flexibility eliminates the need for multiple compressors or intermediate pressure-reducing stations in facilities with diverse nitrogen pressure requirements, significantly reducing capital expenditure and maintenance complexity.

Like all units in our ZW series, the ZW-5.4/6~20 maintains a fully oil-free compression pathway utilizing self-lubricating PTFE composite piston rings and rider bands. This ensures the nitrogen product stream remains completely free of hydrocarbon contamination, achieving ISO 8573-1 Class 0 certification without any downstream purification equipment. The compact dimensions and modest weight make this unit ideal for pilot plants, R&D facilities, and mobile nitrogen supply systems where space and portability are critical constraints.

ZW-5.4/6~20 nitrogen compressor compact two stage variable pressure design

Technical Specifications – ZW-5.4/6~20

Parameter Value Unit
Người mẫu ZW-5.4/6~20
Mẫu Two-stage, Two-row (二列二级)
Dung tích 5.4 (inlet 0.60MPa) m³/phút
Discharge Pressure Range 0.60 – 2.00 MPa
Compressor Size (L × W × H) 2570 × 1550 × 2345 mm
Cân nặng 2.40 t
Quyền lực 132 kW
Điện áp 380/6k hoặc 10k V
Môi trường khí Nitrogen (N₂)
Lubrication Không dầu

* Capacity rated at 0.60 MPa inlet pressure. At higher discharge pressures, capacity adjusts proportionally. All specifications per ISO 1217, Annex C. Actual performance varies with site altitude, ambient temperature, and inlet conditions.

Key Features & Engineering Advantages

1. Variable Pressure Range with Clearance Pocket Control

The ZW-5.4/6~20 incorporates an innovative adjustable clearance pocket system that allows the compressor to operate efficiently across a discharge pressure range from 0.60 MPa to 2.00 MPa without mechanical modification. By adjusting the clearance volume in the high-pressure cylinder, the unit optimizes volumetric efficiency at each pressure setpoint. This eliminates the need for multiple compressors or pressure-reducing valves in facilities with variable nitrogen pressure requirements, reducing both capital expenditure and operating complexity. The pressure adjustment can be performed manually or automated via pneumatic actuators integrated with the control system.

2. Oil-Free PTFE Composite Sealing for High-Pressure Service

The ZW-5.4/6~20 employs a self-lubricating piston ring and rider band system constructed from high-performance PTFE composites reinforced with carbon fiber and bronze particulates. This material formulation is specifically engineered for high-pressure nitrogen service, maintaining sealing integrity and low friction coefficients across the full 0.60–2.00 MPa operating range. The rings achieve a coefficient of friction below 0.07 without any external lubrication, ensuring ISO 8573-1 Class 0 oil content in the compressed nitrogen stream. For pilot plants and research facilities where nitrogen purity is non-negotiable, this native oil-free certification eliminates downstream filtration costs entirely.

3. Two-Stage Compression for Extended Pressure Ratio

The two-stage, two-row architecture is essential for managing the high pressure ratios associated with 2.00 MPa discharge pressure. By dividing the compression work between a low-pressure cylinder and a high-pressure cylinder, the unit limits the discharge temperature of each stage to below 160°C, preserving PTFE ring integrity and preventing thermal degradation. An integrated shell-and-tube intercooler removes the heat of compression between stages, improving overall thermodynamic efficiency and extending valve plate service life. At lower discharge pressures (0.60–1.00 MPa), the unit can operate with reduced inter-stage cooling demand, further improving efficiency.

4. Flexible Voltage Configuration for Diverse Installations

The ZW-5.4/6~20 is available with a 132 kW drive motor in 380V, 6kV, or 10kV configurations. The standard 380V option is ideal for laboratory and pilot plant installations with existing low-voltage distribution infrastructure. The 6kV and 10kV options cater to industrial facilities with medium-voltage bus systems, reducing electrical infrastructure costs and improving energy efficiency by eliminating step-down transformers. This voltage flexibility ensures the ZW-5.4/6~20 can be integrated into virtually any electrical environment without costly modifications.

ZW-5.4/6~20 nitrogen compressor general assembly compact variable pressure design

Application Scenarios

Pilot Plants & Process Development Facilities

Chemical and pharmaceutical pilot plants frequently require nitrogen at varying pressures depending on the process being tested. The ZW-5.4/6~20 variable-pressure nitrogen compressor serves as a single, flexible nitrogen source that can supply inerting gas at 0.60 MPa for reactor blanketing during one campaign, then adjust to 2.00 MPa for high-pressure catalyst testing during the next campaign. The 5.4 m³/min capacity is well-matched to the scale of pilot plant operations, and the oil-free design ensures no hydrocarbon contamination of sensitive catalysts or reaction products.

ZW-5.4/6~20 nitrogen compressor pilot plant chemical process development

Multi-Pressure Industrial Gas Distribution

Industrial facilities with diverse nitrogen consumers—such as tank blanketing at 0.60 MPa, pipeline purging at 1.20 MPa, and emergency vessel inerting at 2.00 MPa—traditionally require multiple compressors or pressure-reducing stations. The ZW-5.4/6~20 eliminates this complexity by providing a single compressor capable of serving all pressure requirements. The adjustable discharge pressure can be changed between shifts or campaigns to match the active process demands, reducing equipment count and simplifying maintenance scheduling.

Mobile Nitrogen Supply & Emergency Response

The compact footprint and modest weight of the ZW-5.4/6~20 make it ideal for mobile nitrogen supply units mounted on road-legal trailers. The variable pressure capability is particularly valuable in emergency response scenarios where nitrogen may be needed at different pressures for pipeline purging, vessel inerting, or fire suppression. The unit can be transported to the site, connected to a nitrogen source (liquid nitrogen vaporizer or small VPSA generator), and quickly adjusted to the required discharge pressure. The oil-free design ensures no contamination of the protected process equipment.

ZW-5.4/6~20 nitrogen compressor mobile emergency response nitrogen supply

Research & University Laboratories

University research laboratories and national research institutes require high-purity nitrogen for a wide range of experiments, from inert atmosphere glove boxes (0.60 MPa) to high-pressure synthesis reactors (2.00 MPa). The ZW-5.4/6~20’s variable pressure range and oil-free certification make it an ideal central nitrogen supply for multi-disciplinary research facilities. The 5.4 m³/min capacity can simultaneously support multiple high-pressure reactors, several glove box stations, and gas chromatography instruments without compromising purity or pressure stability.

Material & Construction

The ZW-5.4/6~20 is constructed from materials selected for high-pressure nitrogen compatibility, corrosion resistance, and compact structural integrity:

Component Material Thông số kỹ thuật
Cylinder Block Gray Cast Iron GG25 / HT250, integral cooling passages
Crankshaft Forged Alloy Steel 42CrMo4, Q&T, dynamically balanced
Piston Rings PTFE-Carbon-Bronze Composite Self-lubricating, high-pressure rated to 2.5 MPa
Rider Bands PTFE Composite Piston guidance, anti-scuffing, wear rate <0.05 mm/1000h
Valve Plates Thép không gỉ SS316, concentric ring spring-loaded
Clearance Pockets Carbon Steel with SS316 Liner Adjustable volume, pneumatic actuation optional
Intercooler Carbon Steel Shell / SS304 Tubes ASME VIII Div.1, 1.5× hydrotest
Base Frame Structural Steel Welded, vibration-damped, forklift-compatible

All pressure-bearing components conform to ASME BPVC Section VIII Division 1 or Chinese GB 150 standards. Weld joints are subjected to 100% radiographic inspection (RT), and each pressure vessel undergoes hydrostatic testing at 1.5× MAWP for a minimum 30-minute hold period.

ZW-5.4/6~20 nitrogen compressor factory precision machining and quality control

Installation & Maintenance Guidelines

Foundation & Spatial Requirements

The ZW-5.4/6~20 weighs 2.40 tonnes and features a compact vertical design with a low center of gravity. A reinforced concrete pad of 4–5 tonnes is sufficient for stable operation, mounted on elastomeric vibration isolators (natural frequency 8–12 Hz). The two-row opposed-cylinder arrangement inherently cancels first-order inertial forces, minimizing vibration transmission. Required clearances: 1.0 m on the non-drive side for valve maintenance, 0.8 m on the drive side for motor access, and 1.5 m overhead for routine service. The unit’s forklift-compatible base frame allows positioning without overhead crane equipment.

Cooling Water Specifications

Cooling water demand is approximately 15 m³/h at an inlet temperature not exceeding 32°C. The water distribution circuit feeds the cylinder jackets and intercooler in parallel. Acceptable water quality: pH 6.5–8.5, total hardness < 300 mg/L as CaCO₃, chloride < 50 mg/L, suspended solids < 30 mg/L. For installations without reliable municipal water supply, a compact closed-loop cooling tower with a 0.5 m³ buffer tank is recommended. At higher discharge pressures (1.50–2.00 MPa), cooling water flow should be increased by approximately 20% to manage the additional heat of compression.

Maintenance Intervals

Interval Service Item Action Required
Daily Visual & Operational Check Inspect for leaks, abnormal noise, cooling water flow, discharge pressure stability
250 hours Valve Plate Inspection Check for carbon deposits, spring fatigue, or plate cracking
1,000 hours Piston Ring Wear Assessment Measure groove clearance; replace rings if > 0.20 mm
4,000 hours Intermediate Service Replace piston rings, rider bands, and valve assemblies
8,000 hours Major Overhaul Inspect crankshaft, measure bearing clearances, replace as needed

The oil-free design eliminates all oil-related maintenance tasks. There are no oil changes, filter replacements, separator cartridge changes, or oil analysis requirements. The only consumable wear items are the PTFE piston rings and rider bands, which typically achieve 3,500–5,500 hours at high-pressure operation (1.50–2.00 MPa) and 4,500–6,500 hours at medium-pressure operation (0.60–1.00 MPa).

ZW-5.4/6~20 nitrogen compressor workshop assembly and quality inspection

Compliance & Safety Certifications

The ZW-5.4/6~20 nitrogen compressor meets the following international standards and regulatory requirements:

Pressure Equipment
ASME BPVC Section VIII Div.1, GB 150-2011, PED 2014/68/EU Module A
Electrical & Machine Safety
IEC 60034-1 (IE3 efficiency), IEC 60204-1, ISO 12100
Oil-Free Certification
ISO 8573-1 Class 0 (Oil Content), TÜV Rheinland tested
Quality & Environmental
ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015

⚠️ Safety Notice

Nitrogen is an odorless, colorless asphyxiant gas. All ZW-5.4/6~20 installations must include continuous oxygen monitoring in the compressor room and adjacent areas. Ventilation must maintain ambient oxygen above 19.5% per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146. Alarm interlocks should trigger at 19.5% O₂ and hard shutdown at 18.0% O₂. Personnel entry requires portable oxygen monitors and a buddy system.

ZW-5.4/6~20 nitrogen compressor ISO certification and compliance badges

Performance & Efficiency Analysis

The ZW-5.4/6~20 achieves a specific power consumption of approximately 24.4 kW per m³/min at 2.00 MPa discharge pressure, improving to approximately 18.5 kW/m³/min at 0.60 MPa. While the specific power is higher than larger-capacity models due to reduced scale efficiency, the unit’s variable-pressure capability delivers unique operational flexibility that offsets the marginal efficiency penalty. For comparison, a dedicated high-pressure diaphragm compressor of equivalent capacity would consume 28–35 kW/m³/min, while oil-lubricated screw compressors at 2.00 MPa typically exceed 20 kW/m³/min.

The primary economic advantage of the ZW-5.4/6~20 is the elimination of multiple compressors in facilities with variable pressure requirements. A facility requiring nitrogen at 0.60 MPa, 1.20 MPa, and 2.00 MPa would traditionally need three separate compressors or one compressor plus two pressure-reducing stations. The ZW-5.4/6~20 replaces this entire infrastructure with a single unit, reducing capital expenditure by 40–60% and maintenance complexity by a similar margin. The total cost of ownership for nitrogen compression in variable-pressure applications is dominated by equipment count and maintenance labor rather than marginal energy efficiency.

The oil-free design further reduces TCO by eliminating oil-related consumables. A typical lubricated compressor of this size and pressure range consumes 80–150 liters of lubricating oil annually, plus filter elements, separator cartridges, and waste oil disposal costs totaling $1,500–$3,000/year. The ZW-5.4/6~20 removes these expenses entirely.

Customization & OEM Capabilities

We provide flexible customization options to adapt the ZW-5.4/6~20 to specific installation constraints and end-user requirements:

  • Skid-Mounted Packages: Pre-assembled compressor, motor, cooler, and control panel on a structural steel skid with forklift pockets and lifting eyes. Reduces field installation to electrical connection and cooling water hookup only.
  • Mobile Trailer Units: The ZW-5.4/6~20 can be mounted on a road-legal trailer with integrated diesel generator, cooling system, and nitrogen storage, creating a fully mobile nitrogen supply unit for construction sites, pipeline maintenance, and emergency response.
  • Automated Pressure Control: Optional Siemens LOGO! or S7-1200 PLC with pressure feedback loop, automatically adjusting clearance pocket volume to maintain set discharge pressure within ±0.05 MPa. Remote monitoring via Modbus TCP/IP or OPC-UA.
  • Acoustic Enclosures: Compact IP54-rated sound enclosure reducing noise from 82 dB(A) to 68 dB(A) at 1 meter, suitable for indoor installations in noise-sensitive environments such as laboratories and office-adjacent machinery rooms.
  • OEM & Private Label: Custom paint schemes, branded nameplates, and localized documentation packages for gas equipment distributors and system integrators.

Custom configurations are available from MOQ 1 unit. Engineering proposals delivered within 3–5 business days. Standard delivery: 10–12 weeks; expedited delivery within 8 weeks for qualifying orders.

ZW-5.4/6~20 nitrogen compressor custom skid mounted mobile unit

Case Study: Multi-Pressure Pilot Plant Nitrogen Supply

Client: A specialty chemical company operating a multi-reactor pilot plant in Germany

Challenge: The pilot plant operated four reactors with different nitrogen pressure requirements: Reactor A (0.60 MPa for inerting), Reactor B (1.20 MPa for catalyst activation), Reactor C (1.60 MPa for high-pressure synthesis), and Reactor D (2.00 MPa for polymerization). The client was maintaining three separate compressors (0.60 MPa, 1.20 MPa, and 2.00 MPa) plus pressure-reducing stations, resulting in high capital costs, complex maintenance scheduling, and frequent cross-contamination issues when switching between reactors.

Solution: We supplied a ZW-5.4/6~20 oil-free nitrogen compressor with automated clearance pocket control, replacing all three existing compressors. The unit was configured on a compact skid with integrated intercooler, aftercooler, and a Siemens S7-1200 PLC with pressure feedback control. The PLC automatically adjusts discharge pressure to match the active reactor requirements, switching between setpoints in under 5 minutes.

Results After 18 Months:

  • Capital equipment: Reduced from 3 compressors to 1, saving €180,000 in initial investment
  • Maintenance costs: Reduced by 58% (from €24,000/year to €10,100/year)
  • Floor space: Reduced by 65% (from 18 m² to 6.3 m²)
  • Nitrogen purity: Consistently >99.9% with oil content <0.01 mg/m³ across all pressure setpoints
  • Reactor switching time: Reduced from 45 minutes to under 5 minutes, improving pilot plant throughput

“The ZW-5.4/6~20 has simplified our nitrogen supply dramatically. We no longer maintain three compressors or worry about pressure-reducing valve failures. The automatic pressure switching is seamless, and our pilot plant operators love the simplicity.” — Process Engineering Manager

ZW-5.4/6~20 nitrogen compressor pilot plant installation case study

FAQ & Selection Guide

How does the variable pressure range work in practice?

The ZW-5.4/6~20 achieves its variable pressure range through adjustable clearance pockets in the high-pressure cylinder. By increasing the clearance volume, the compressor reduces its effective displacement and volumetric efficiency, allowing operation at lower discharge pressures without excessive power consumption. Conversely, reducing the clearance volume maximizes displacement for high-pressure operation. The adjustment can be performed manually via hand wheels or automated via pneumatic actuators controlled by a pressure feedback loop. Pressure changes between setpoints typically require 3–5 minutes.

What is the expected service life of the ZW-5.4/6~20?

The ZW-5.4/6~20 is designed for a minimum service life of 15 years (approximately 120,000 operating hours) in clean nitrogen service. The cast-iron frame and forged steel crankshaft are rated for the full design life. PTFE piston rings and rider bands are the primary wear items, with replacement intervals of 3,500–5,500 hours at high-pressure operation (1.50–2.00 MPa) and 4,500–6,500 hours at medium-pressure operation (0.60–1.00 MPa). Valve plate assemblies typically last 2,500–4,000 hours.

Can the ZW-5.4/6~20 operate from a liquid nitrogen vaporizer?

Yes. The ZW-5.4/6~20 can accept nitrogen from a liquid nitrogen vaporizer operating at near-atmospheric pressure (0.05–0.10 MPa). However, when operating from a vaporizer, the inlet pressure is lower than the rated 0.60 MPa inlet, and the actual capacity will be proportionally reduced. For vaporizer-fed applications, we recommend installing a 1 m³ surge vessel upstream to buffer pressure fluctuations and ensure stable compressor operation. The unit can also operate from small VPSA nitrogen generators with appropriate surge protection.

Is the ZW-5.4/6~20 suitable for outdoor installation?

The standard unit is designed for indoor installation. For outdoor use, we offer an optional IP54 weatherproof enclosure with space heating, solar shields, and forced ventilation. The acoustic enclosure option is recommended for outdoor installations to maintain noise compliance. Mobile trailer-mounted configurations are also available for fully outdoor deployment.

When should I avoid selecting the ZW-5.4/6~20?

The ZW-5.4/6~20 is NOT recommended for: (1) Discharge pressures above 2.50 MPa—consider our DW series or dedicated high-pressure models; (2) Capacity requirements above 10 m³/min—larger LW-series models offer better scale efficiency; (3) Applications requiring a single fixed pressure with no variation—a dedicated single-pressure compressor may offer marginally better efficiency and lower capital cost.

Related Products & Solutions

LW Series Large-Capacity Nitrogen Compressors

High-flow oil-free piston compressors (20–130 m³/min) for cryogenic ASU backup, VPSA boosting, and industrial pipeline distribution. Discharge pressures from 0.30 to 0.80 MPa.

Explore LW Series →

DW Series High-Pressure Nitrogen Compressors

Medium to high-pressure oil-free compressors (0.40–2.00 MPa) for nitrogen injection, pipeline boosting, and chemical synthesis. Capacities from 2 to 130 m³/min.

Explore DW Series →

MW Series Medium-Pressure Compressors

Medium-pressure oil-free compressors (1.0–4.0 MPa) for nitrogen recycle, gas liquefaction, and process gas compression in petrochemical operations.

Explore MW Series →

For a complete overview of our industrial nitrogen compressor portfolio, including oil-free oxygen compressors, hydrogen compressors, and specialty gas solutions, please contact our engineering team or browse our online catalog.

Ready for a Flexible Nitrogen Compression Solution?

Our application engineers are available to evaluate your multi-pressure nitrogen requirements and demonstrate how the ZW-5.4/6~20 can replace multiple compressors with a single, versatile unit. We provide complimentary technical proposals, TCO analyses, and pilot plant integration guidance within 48 hours.

Email: [email protected] | Response within 24 hours