A Deep Dive into Cryogenic Storage Tanks: Components, Types, and Applications

Cryogenic storage tanks are specially designed containers used to store materials at extremely low temperatures, typically below -150°C (-238°F). These tanks are crucial for various applications that require extremely cold environments, such as medical research, scientific experiments, and industrial processes.

cryogenic storage tanks

Key Components of Cryogenic Storage Tanks:

• Double-walled construction: They consist of two nested tanks, an inner tank and an outer tank. The inner tank, typically made of stainless steel 304L (X5 CrNi 18-10), holds the cryogenic liquid. The outer tank, often made of carbon steel, provides structural support and insulation.
• Vacuum insulation: The space between the inner and outer tanks is a vacuum, significantly reducing heat transfer from the environment to the inner tank, and minimizing the evaporation of the stored cryogenic liquid.
• Safety features: Cryogenic storage tanks incorporate safety features like pressure relief valves, rupture disks, and level gauges to prevent pressure build-up, potential explosions, and accidental spills.

Types of Cryogenic Storage Tanks:

• Dewar Flasks: These are small, portable containers ideal for storing small quantities of cryogenic liquids like nitrogen, argon, and oxygen. They are commonly used in labs and medical facilities.
• Cryogenic Liquid Cylinders: Larger and more durable than Dewar flasks, these cylinders are designed to transport and store bigger volumes of cryogenic liquids, typically up to 500 litres.
• Cryogenic Storage Tanks: The largest and most robust type, these tanks are used for industrial applications and can hold massive quantities of cryogenic liquids, reaching up to 50,000 litres.

Materials Used in Cryogenic Storage Tanks:

• Stainless steel: The preferred material due to its durability, corrosion resistance, and excellent thermal insulating properties. However, it's also the most expensive option.
• Aluminium: Offers a balance between cost and performance but may not be suitable for all cryogenic liquids due to lower strength at extremely cold temperatures.
• Carbon steel: Used in the outer tank construction for its structural strength and cost-effectiveness. It's not suitable for the inner tank due to its lower corrosion resistance at cryogenic temperatures.

Applications of Cryogenic Storage Tanks:

• Medical field: Storing blood plasma, vaccines, and reproductive materials.
• Scientific research: Preserving biological samples, and conducting experiments at ultra-low temperatures.
• Industrial processes: Manufacturing electronics, food freezing, and large-scale chemical reactions.

Safety Precautions for Cryogenic Storage Tanks:

• Handling: Wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) like cryogenic gloves, safety glasses, and face shields when handling cryogenic liquids and storage tanks.
• Storage: Keep tanks in well-ventilated areas with appropriate signage and away from heat sources and ignition points.
• Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain tanks according to manufacturer's guidelines to ensure their integrity and safety features function properly.