Cryogenic Liquid Cylinders are specialized containers, which are double walled, with a vacuum and other multi-layered insulation in between the walls (similar in concept to an insulated travel coffee mug). These containers are made for efficient and safe transportation and storage of liquid gases that are at very low temperatures.
Which Are The Most Common Liquids Stored In These Containers?
Liquid Oxygen
Liquid Helium.
Why Use Cryogenic Liquid Cylinders?
There are 2 main benefits that come from using vacuum insulated cylinders. The first is that they can store a large volume of gas in liquid state at a lower pressure in comparison to compressed gas cylinders. Secondly, these containers are designed to provide portability in a safe, reliable and easy to manage format.
Safety Information & Protocols
Only Cryogenic Liquid Cylinders approved by Transport Canada (TC) and provided by an established, reputable gas supplier (like Simcoe Gases) should be used.
All Cryogenic Liquid Containers will endure some heat transfer from the environment due to temperature differences between the liquid and its surroundings. This will cause some vaporization of the liquid contents in to the gaseous state, which will collect in the space above the liquid. Once a pre-determined cylinder pressure is reached, there will be a periodical release of gas through a relief valve. This vaporization is normal and part of the container’s safety operation. Store cylinders only in well ventilated areas.
Should there be an accidental release of either CO2, nitrogen, argon or helium in a confined space, the immediate area could quickly become oxygen-deficient and create a very dangerous scenario for anyone nearby. It is imperative that these containers are stored in very well-ventilated areas, in order to prevent the creation of an oxygen-deficient space. For permanent or semi-permanent usage locations, it is recommended to install a proper venting solution to an exterior outlet. Feel free to ask your Simcoe Gases expert for more information and guidance.
Since cryogenic liquids are extremely low in temperature (approximately -78.5 degrees C to -269 degrees C), they can cause rapid freezing of skin upon contact. It is recommended that when operating and handling these containers, that the user wear proper PPE to protect exposed skin.
On the other hand, if oxygen is released accidentally, this can create a fire hazard as the space will become oxygen-enriched and materials may be at an increased risk for easy ignition. Oxygen must be separated from flammables and combustibles by at least 20 feet or a half-hour fire wall. Post “No Smoking” and “No Open Flames” signs. Because of the large expansion ratio of liquid-to-gas, it is very important to provide adequate ventilation in areas where liquid oxygen is in use.
Transporting Liquid Cylinders
When transporting these cylinders, the transporter should use mechanical equipment, particularly if the container does not already have wheels. It is also important that these cylinders are also in an upright position and stored in a well-ventilated area.
When containers have wheels, it is important that they are pushed in order to reduce the risk of the cylinder tipping over.
When transporting in an elevator, use a freight elevator if possible. If a freight elevator is not available, ensure that no other passengers are able to use the elevator while the container is in it.
When you choose Simcoe Gases as your provider of Cryogenic Liquid Gases and Cylinders, you can be sure that the Cryogenic Liquid Cylinders you receive will be TC approved, within code for relief valve and cylinder inspections, and compliant with all applicable CGA standards.
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