Nitrogen is one of the most common elements in our solar system and the primary component of the earth’s atmosphere. As a compressed gas, nitrogen has numerous applications in a variety of industries. Below are a few common uses for this gas.

How Is Nitrogen Used?

1. Filling Tires

Many auto shops advise filling tires with a mixture of nitrogen and oxygen. Nitrogen molecules are larger than most other atmospheric gases, so they won’t seep as easily through the tires' walls. This may lead to more stable tire pressure, less wear and tear, and even better gas mileage.

2. Preserving Food

Nitrogen molecules have especially strong bonds, and this gas is nearly inert, meaning it doesn't react with most chemicals. Food manufacturers use a mixture of nitrogen and carbon dioxide to protect foods during the manufacturing process. This is why packaged foods like chips and cereal typically contain nitrogen instead of normal air.

3. Purifying Steel

Impurities in the air can find their way into molten steel, potentially weakening the final product. Steel manufacturers use compressed gases like nitrogen to keep air away from molten metal and welding pools. Because nitrogen is nearly inert, it won’t interfere with the chemical bonds that form as liquid metal cools, ensuring steel items and welds are as strong as possible.

4. Suppressing Fire

Using water or foam to put out a fire in a data or electronics center can be nearly as destructive as the blaze itself. Many advanced fire suppression systems use nitrogen, which is not flammable. As the compressed gas fills a room, it starves the fire of oxygen, extinguishing the blaze without harming delicate machinery or electronic equipment.

Since 1959, Wayne Oxygen & Welding Supply Co. has provided compressed gases to businesses and welders throughout Waynesboro, Charlottesville, and Harrisonburg, VA. Along with nitrogen, oxygen, and other supplies, they also deliver welding equipment from Lincoln Electric Company and Miller Electric Manufacturing. Visit their website for more on their industrial gas supplies, or call (540) 942-4145 to reach their office in Waynesboro. To speak to someone in Harrisonburg, call (540) 434-1235, or dial (434) 295-2334 to contact their Charlottesville location.